So, since you read the title, I am assuming that you know that I will be talking about time management and not about rainbows and unicorns. (That reminds me of Lucky Charms. . . but, let’s not get off topic.)
Time management is important in all stages of life, but most important in the college stage. College is a time where you, the adult, are on your own for the first time. There is no one driving you to school, practice, parties, or prom. You don’t have to ask permission to go anywhere, so what you do with your time is up to you.
Will you sleep till 11 am and miss your first class; or, get up early with enough time for a good breakfast and a 8 am class? Will you go to a party in some random person’s dorm or study for your science test? Will you visit your parents, or stay holed up away in college? No college student wants their parents following them around like their own private secretary.
I, of all people, am the worst at time management. So, I am just going to give you a couple things I do to help with time management.
First, use a planner! Note: this is not a diary! Also, if you don’t make friends the first week of college, don’t worry because your planner will always be there for you! Write down everything. I know what you are saying: “No, I don’t need to write it because I will remember.” I know you will forget to write it down later, so why not do it as soon as possible?
Next, schedule your school life and personal life with a balance that works for you. If you have work, make sure you include that as well! Nobody is going to tell you to stop partying every day, so why would someone tell you to go tell you to do your homework? This isn’t high school, and you are responsible for you and your grades.
Third, don’t wait till the last minute. I have always been a wait-till-the-last-minute person, and attending college really brought that to my attention. Since you are in college, you can’t tell your mom at 9 p.m. that you have a solar system model due at 8 a.m. the next day and expect her to be willing to help. Likewise in college, if you need to get something done, get all the materials needed before hand. Also, don’t wait until the last minute to go to the grocery store. You don’t want to be stuck on a Saturday night on a date with somebody–only to discover that your refrigerator contains rotten apples and pizza bites.
Fourth, ASK QUESTIONS. I can’t stress this enough. This past semester has been a real eye opener for me, if you don’t know something, ask. Even if you think it is dumb, ask if anyway because somebody may have the same question. Talk to your professors and fellow students. You are all in this together so don’t be afraid to speak up!
College is a time where you grow mentally, physically , and emotionally. Remember that it does stop, but this is where you transform yourself into the person you want to be after college. Also, please remember to eat enough food, drink plenty of water, and get more than 5 minutes of sleep (key word SLEEP). Walking around like a zombie on campus is not beneficial to you.
Don’t be afraid to start something new, it may help! Starting a new habit is always hard, but with time and dedication you can be successful throughout your college career!
Thanks for reading and I’ll catch you next week,
Yours suspiciously,
Special K