A STUDENT'S GUIDE TO ORGANIZATION AND TIME MANAGEMENT

When I was attending a college admissions panel a few months ago, the speaker revealed the two major reasons that high-achieving high school students are no longer high-achieving once they reach college:  poor lifestyle choices and ineffective time management.  The second category really piqued my interest because, as we all know, time management skills are not easily mastered.

To be frank, sometimes I still struggle with making the most of the time that has been allotted to me.  I know that time management in college will be much more comprehensive than it is for me now, but I'm hoping that sticking to my tried-and-true organizational system will put me on the right track.

1. Find Your System:  Do you love technology and built-in notifications?  Google Calendar and other apps might be your best options for time scheduling.  If you prefer writing your schedule, try using a planner and/or desktop calendar.  If you're utterly indecisive (like yours truly), try your hand at a system that incorporates both technological and written timekeeping.  I put important events (like appointments and meetings) and deadlines (usually college-related) on my Google Calendar because I love being able to set customized notifications for them;  I use a paper planner to keep track of my day-to-day school assignments and smaller tasks.

2. Prioritize What "Needs" To Be Accomplished:  This tip sounds obvious, right?  However, I consistently struggle with taking this advice because I tend to set lofty goals for myself in all realms of my life--including my to-do lists.  Sometimes I make myself  "daily" task lists that no human could possibly finish in twenty-four hours;  needless to say, these lists cause me a great deal of anxiety.  I've learned to curtail this anxiety by making "master lists," which contain only the tasks that I absolutely have to do on a given day, and treating those aforementioned task lists as mere supplemental material.  Most importantly, I give myself permission to leave the lists unfinished, as long as I accomplish everything that I absolutely need to accomplish.  Trust me, this mindset goes a long way!

3. Find Inspiration:  Becoming more organized seems easier and more enjoyable when you have a bit of inspiration to utilize as motivation.  YouTube is a mecca of organization enthusiasts and tips;  I love watching the channel Mariana's Study Corner because she gives such thorough advice on her own tried-and-true organization methods (she also has wonderful tips for college students and young adults living on their own).  I like the channels StudyQuill and Studyign for the same reasons.  Also, if you want a bit of note taking inspiration, check out the Studytee Instagram account (her handwriting is absolutely lovely)!

Do you have any unique tips for making the most of the time allocated to you?  I'd love to hear them!

Love,
Tori