Time is arguably our most valuable resource. It's nonrenewable, so we need to learn how to utilize our time efficiently. In college, you may feel pressed for time between a sporadic class schedule, clubs, studying and sports. Although these techniques may not work for everyone, here are some things I do in order to get the most out of my day.
Jump out of bed, and don't get back in it
I've spent my younger days far too well acquainted with the snooze
button. Forcing yourself awake is much less miserable than the "five more
minutes" routine. The snooze button just ends up making you more tired
because you're half awake for those brief minutes of trying to fall back
asleep. Instead chug a glass of cold water to wake yourself up and get your day
started.
Accomplish a small task at the beginning of the day
Your day is similar to your homework in the sense that getting
started is the hardest part. By accomplishing something small you'll be in the
mindset to continue accomplishing things. Start your day meditating for five
minutes, making your bed, or cooking breakfast and you'll easily transition to
another task.
Make a list of things you need to do
To-do lists are highly underrated. Make a list of long term goals,
short term goals, and daily tasks that need to be completed. Put these lists
somewhere you will be forced to look at them every day. I’d recommend your
phone or computer wallpaper, hung up somewhere in your room, on your desk or on
your refrigerator. Then when you find that you are bored and at a loss for
something to do you can easily refer to one of your lists. I know a lot of
people like to use the daily planners, but I find a folded up piece of
loose-leaf is much more convenient.
Plan your day ahead of time
Naturally, you're not going to be able to predict your day down to
the minute. Things happen and the amount of time something is going to take you
isn't always predetermined. However, you should have a good outline of what
you're going to do and when you're going to do it. This way instead of
stressing over all the things you have to do you can simply just do them.
Before you go to bed plan out roughly what you want to do the next day and when
you're going to do it.
Keep a book on you at all times
If you get somewhere early, or you have a small period of time to
kill between classes, a book is perfect for these situations. Instead of
staring at your cell phone you can read a textbook you have to read, or read a
book for recreation. All the little ten minute blocks add up and you'll find
you are much more well read than you would have been.
That being said all people are different and my tips may do absolutely nothing for you. The only sure-fire key to beat procrastination and make the most of your time is to always do something productive. Know the difference between what you want to do and what you should do. I can't tell you how to live your life, but you should listen to me anyway.
