Summer is ending and the school year is rolling in. Put your beach towels away and break out those backpacks because classes are starting soon. The beginning of school is always hectic and things can get well...unorganized. Don't let this become a habit as the months roll by. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you stay organized and get on the right track:
Get your supplies right: Planners are your friend, my friend. Honestly just treat this thing like your bible. Write down your reminders in it, your plans, and most importantly your assignments. If you're completely against going the paper route, there's an app for that. One of my favorites is Planner Plus for the iPhone.
Plan ahead: If you're someone who likes to sleep in for those few extra minutes like I do, doing things the night before is a Godsend. Pick out the outfit you want to wear the next day and pack your lunch or snack if you like to have one. Doing this makes for a stress-free morning (you'll have a lot more time to enjoy your coffee too). Speaking of planning ahead, sometimes it's a good idea to plan your week (or month) out. Write down important dates for the next few weeks in your planner. To get a great overview of what's ahead, I like to write things down on a white board calendar.
Get a fresh perspective: While studying in the library can be awesome, after a while it becomes a place you dread going. Switch up your study spots so you don't become bored or unmotivated. But make sure that areas that you study in are reserved only for studying. If you use these areas for other activities too, you'll have a lot more distractions.
Step away from the computer: From time to time that is. I know in our technology-filled generation it's hard because computers are almost necessary, but you'll be surprised how much you can accomplish when you step back for a few hours. Unplugging can also help you to curb stress.
Have an organization system for supplies: I've found that color coding supplies based on subject can work well. If you're not into color, try numbering or another marker that will help you keep same-subject supplies together. It also makes it a lot easier to recognize them so you can quickly gather the supplies you need and leave the ones you don't.
Keep your room organized: When you keep your room organized, life flows a little bit easier. You won't be rushing to find those things that you need. Your mind will also feel a lot less cluttered if your space isn't cluttered. If you're in college, check out these awesome tricks to organize your room from Buzzfeed. Try them at home too!
Most importantly, remember self-care: Although an all-nighter once in a while is sort of unavoidable in school, try your best to get eight hours (or as close as you can get) every night. Try to sneak in some time at the gym when you can. Exercise is a great stress reliever and can also help calm anxiety.
Alright kiddo, now you're armed and ready to be the most organized student in the class. Go show 'em what you've got!
