As college students, what is one thing we all have in common? We all have a million and two things to get done -- and not a whole lot of time to get it done. Homework, studying for that huge exam, socializing, eating, sleeping -- with all those things and more, twenty-four in a day just isn't enough. (Especially when 12 to 18 hours a week are spent in a classroom.) You can wish there were more hours in a day all you want, but the sad fact of the matter is you just can't change it. So, how do you get everything done that you need to do?
1. Get a planner
My planner is definitely my best friend. As soon as I get an assignment, it gets written down in my planner. This is extremely helpful for multiple reasons.
For one thing, when you have so much to do, it can be easy to forget at least one thing on your list with everything else on your mind. Your planner can be a great reminder. Also, seeing concretely when everything is due can help you prioritize better and make sure everything gets done on time.
2. Homework and study parties.
Not sure how to choose between a social life and cramming all of your homework in? Grab a couple of friends, your homework, and maybe some snacks or tunes, and head to a central location to have a homework party. They're a great way to see your friends and be productive at the same time. Plus, sometimes I find it easier when I don't feel like doing work to see everyone else focused.
3. Turn off distractions and reward yourself.
Is working with others too distracting for you? Well then, you'll obviously want to get what you need done as quickly as possible so you can go hang out with your friends. What I suggest is turning off your phone and any other distractions. Texting your friends or checking Facebook every five seconds to see what's going on in the world will just slow your process down. The faster you get done, the quicker you can join in on the fun.
If nothing is going on that you have to use as motivation to do your homework, then reward yourself every few accomplishments. Breaks are important to focusing, just make sure you're doing more work than break so it doesn't constitute as not doing work efficiently.
No matter what you do, hopefully you work hard but you don't get too consumed in work. Everyone needs some fun in their lives sometimes.
