No matter how much work I get done, I still feel like I'm falling behind. In fact, over the summer I was so nervous about getting nervous that I decided to start outlining textbook notes two weeks before school even started. I'm now on chapter 5 of "Cognitive Psychology."

I'm not sure whether it is the intrinsic belief that I am going to fail or the overwhelming amount of assignments I have laid out in my planner, but everything just seems impossible. It is moments like these where I need to remind myself to step away, take a breather, and allow my mind to rest. Of course, that is easier said than done, but it really is worth the effort of trying.

Something that I find to be helpful is to get started on any assignments or reports as soon as physically possible, and even work ahead. There is nothing more satisfying than checking off something on a to-do list. Start with the small things and work up to the 5-page research assignment that is just sitting on your desk waiting to be started.

One positive thing that I see with online classes is that you are able to view your assignments for basically the whole semester, and so it wouldn't hurt being a week ahead in one class that way you are able to focus on a more difficult subject that would need more of your attention.

I don't consider myself a morning person at all, but I've found that waking up bright and early to finish up leftover work has significantly helped my stress levels. It also allows me to go to sleep earlier instead of staying up all night trying to finish my assignments half-asleep.

Online classes really test your time management skills, and hopefully, I am able to keep up my good study habits throughout the semester. I guess this means that I can't take my daily naps anymore, but that is a sacrifice I am willing to make.