It's that time of year everybody! Time to get back to the books and start the new school year right! If you're anything like me, the school year means much more than naps between classes and partying during the week. If you're feeling overwhelmed with your new busy schedule, check out some of these helpful tips to keep your cool for back to school.

1. Make your planner your BFF.

Keeping a planner is step one to being on top of your game this year. Keep it updated with important dates, school assignments, and fun events so you always know what's going on.

2. Force yourself to sleep.

You might wanna think twice before you stay up that extra hour to watch another episode. Even if you're not tired yet, turn out the lights to give yourself at least eight hours. Your body and brain will really thank you for it in the morning.

3. Eat three square meals a day.

Sometimes when we're rushing, we forget about some of our basic human functions -- including eating meals. But skipping a meal messes up your eating schedule for the rest of the day, which means you'll be starving at different points of the day.

4. Know when it's time to take a break.

We run ourselves crazy with such busy schedules, and sometimes it's hard to stop pushing ourselves. Give yourself some time during the day, a few moments alone with your coffee in the morning or reading a book before bed, to relax and refresh. And when things get too crazy and you need more time, give yourself a day off to get your head on straight.

5. Stay positive.

Negativity can definitely creep up on you when you're feeling overworked and overdone. Staying positive during these moments is key to keeping yourself motivated and on the right track. Push away negativity with positive messages, images of things that make you happy, and surrounding yourself with the people that you love.

6. Find ways of motivating yourself.

Motivating yourself is a great way to get things done. Don't hang out with friends until you finish writing your paper, or reward yourself with treats after studying. When it becomes crunch time and you need a last push, find motivation in the little things to keep you going.

7. Take it one step at a time.

Got a paper, an exam and a speech due tomorrow? Don't stress yourself with thoughts of everything -- instead, handle one item at a time. You'll be able to focus much better with a single task at hand, and you won't feel as overwhelmed.