At the end of the year, it can feel impossible to get everything done on time and have it done well. It seems like you suddenly have about a hundred projects and a million essays to do on top of your regular work. The stress of all this can really get to you and that just makes it worse. Getting and staying organized is easier said than done, especially once things are piled so high you're buried in it all. But there are things you can do to keep on top of all your work.
1. Start a to-do list.
This is a fairly simple task, but it helps a lot. Make a list of everything you have to do and find a way to prioritize items on the list. When is the next deadline of the items on your list? Do that task first and keep going until you've finished that list then make a new one. The key to making a good to-do list is to not put really big tasks on the list. Break down bigger tasks into a few smaller ones so it's less overwhelming. If you have an essay to do, the items should be things like, "find research on essay topic," "outline essay," "essay free write," etc. These tasks are smaller and more manageable than the bigger task of "write essay." This will help you feel more accomplished when you cross these items off and that will keep you motivated.
2. Take breaks.
If you work hard for hours without a least a little bit of break time, you'll burn out much faster than you will if you take breaks. Good breaks will distract you for some time, so when you come back to your work, you feel refreshed. Activities like coloring in a coloring book, exercising, spending time with pets or friends, or even watching a short episode of your favorite show on Netflix or Youtube can distract you for a little bit. Exercising is my favorite way to take a break because after sitting in one spot for a while, it feels good to move, and it uses a very different part of the brain.
3. Don't forget to eat healthy food.
Eating keeps your brain and body fueled for class and studying. Eating junk food can make you feel more lethargic and less motivated, because your body has a harder time digesting processed foods. I suggest homemade smoothies made with fruit, greens, nut butter and coconut water or salads made with dark leafy greens, fresh veggies, fresh fruits, and nuts. Leafy greens are some of the best power foods out there. They have most of the vitamins your body needs and that helps to keep you going when your brain is running for long periods of time. Fruits and nuts have sugars and proteins that can help keep you focused for longer periods of time. Eating healthy also means drinking enough water. Try to drink at least a liter (if not two) of water per day. You may use the restroom more often, but it is important for you body to have water to function properly.
4. Sleep for seven to ten hours a night.
I have a scheduled bed time and wake up time each day so I can ensure I get eight hours of sleep a night, and although I don't always stick to it, I find that this helps me focus during the day because I'm less tired and distracted. Even though it seems like I'm spending less time on my work than my peers who are only getting five hours of sleep, I feel like my time awake is far more productive than if I were tired. When I don't sleep enough, my body shuts down, and I spend most of my study and work time trying to stay awake and trying to remember to focus. I get about half as much work done than if I were well rested.
With a ton of work to get done as the year comes to a close staying organized in a few little ways can make a big difference. When I'm organized I get so much more done and feel less overwhelmed. There are many more ways to stay on top of the end-of-the-year hullabaloo, but these few tips are a good start. Try a couple and see what works well for you!
