It's been said over and over again that there just isn't enough time in the day... It's true. We are expected to manage our schoolwork, and classes, our jobs, our social lives, call our parents, check up with our significant others, grocery shop, take care of our cats and more, all in 24 hours? And on top of that, get a full night's sleep? Haha, no way.
I've learned (I'm still learning really), that it is possible to take care of all these things and more, if you just prioritize. I know you've heard it a thousand times, but I swear it helps. Here are some ways I've found keep me on track and save me from a total mental breakdown:
1. Take care of yourself first
Wake up early enough to eat breakfast, take your vitamins and always carry a water bottle. If your day is jam packed, bring a lunch to campus with you and make sure you're getting enough sleep to keep your mind sharp all day.
2. Remember, there are always things that can wait until tomorrow
Of course there are things that need to be done today, so do those first. If you are feeling overwhelmed and exhausted once you get to the things that can wait, maybe it's time to put it away for the night. Do them tomorrow while you're eating breakfast or on the shuttle to campus. You got this.
3. Find a good planner
For me, if it doesn't go in my little book, it doesn't happen. After a bad string of missed appointments, assignments, and commitments, I realized that it was time to keep track of what I need to do in a more physical, mapped out way. I found my planner on Etsy for about $30, however you can find them for much cheaper at any store that sells office supplies.
4. Set reminders on your phone
If you're more electronic, maybe setting reminders on your Smartphone or adding things into your calendar will help you.
5. Allot your time wisely
I like to set alarms on my phone to tell myself when it's time to move on to my next task. This can also be a helpful tool in allotting yourself free time. Set a thirty minute alarm and allow yourself to relax or call your grandmother.
6. Make time for YOU
I know first hand what it's like to be a workaholic and feeling overwhelmed, but if you don't squeeze in time for personal enjoyment every now and them, you'll go nuts. So take your Thursday evening off and binge watch OITNB, or scroll aimlessly through Tumblr. You deserve it!
