Dec. 17, 2023
By Drew Bancroft
Staff Writer
Between schoolwork, sports, jobs, extracurricular activities and hobbies, students often struggle with managing their time. Here are a few recommendations to help you make the most of every minute and feel proud of what you have accomplished:
First, be aware of due dates to make sure you are staying on track. Allocate time appropriately based on your deadlines and avoid procrastination.
Procrastination is a self-defeating behavior that feels good in the short-term but has long-term detriments. Procrastination can be the result of boredom, anxiety or even external distractions. Some ways to overcome this deficit include staying organized and breaking down work into more manageable portions.
According to a study conducted by Mamoosh, an education company, 86% of high school students are prone to procrastinating when it comes to coursework. Do not fall into this pattern as procrastination can cause stress.
Next, use a planner or digital calendar. With a digital calendar, you can set reminders regarding important dates. Start schoolwork sooner rather than later so it does not interfere with other aspects of your life.
Of course, it can feel troublesome to complete assignments, especially if they are lengthy or tedious. One method I use to get through assignments like these is to reward myself with short breaks. This also allows me time to gather my thoughts and avoid feeling stressed or overexerted. Some activities to try during your break include reading a book, going for a walk, eating a snack or chatting with family for a few minutes.
Nobody is perfect, and that is okay. If your workload feels overwhelming or if you are struggling to balance your commitments, consider talking to a trusted family member, friend, teacher or guidance counselor.
It is vital to avoid distractions when completing tasks on your to-do list. This can be accomplished by working in a quiet room or by placing any distractions, such as a phone, in another room. Although it seems boring, you will almost always have free time once you are done with your obligations.
Keeping your workspace organized is another way to optimize productivity. According to the education website, GCF Global, this can be accomplished by grouping items like writing utensils or textbooks while keeping unnecessary items off your desk.
Nobody is perfect, and that is okay. If your workload feels overwhelming or if you are struggling to balance your commitments, consider talking to a trusted family member, friend, teacher or guidance counselor. These individuals want what is best for you, so take advantage of that support system.
My main advice is to try your hardest. When taking on a large workload, it is nearly impossible to excel at everything. If you put forth your best effort, then you should be satisfied regardless of the result. Be appreciative of what you have accomplished rather than dwelling on the work that you could have done.
Completing non-academic tasks while also keeping up with your education can be daunting. Therefore, be willing to sacrifice some free time throughout your day to prioritize what truly matters to you. Ultimately, only you can decide what means the most. Whatever that may be, make sure to use your time wisely because every minute counts.
