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Ask Us!Clocks Should Tick, Not People:
Tips On How to Manage Your Time
A good time to think about time management is when you place a high value on your time, and you realize the inherent stress that can result from a lack of time management.
The beginning of an endeavor (for example, the start of a school year, the onset of final exams) is a perfect time for organizational reflection and preparation.
The following are ideas that will help defuse the inevitable stress of being a student:
- Define and keep in mind your long-range, mid-range, and short-range goals.
- Use a daily planner that notes:
- Due dates
- Study time (2 hours/credit hour/week)
- Work hours
- Meals
- Exercise (30-40 minutes/3-5 days/week)
- Relaxation
- Sleep (6-8 hours/night)
Your daily planner should reflect your priorities in obtaining your goals. We also need to remember the lesson learned while listening to safety instructions aboard an airplane about to take off. PUT THE OXYGEN MASK ON YOURSELF FIRST! If we don't take care of ourselves, we can't best care for our loved ones or others, or even obtain our goals. Your priorities need to include self care. - Learn to say "no." Avoid overcommitments.
- Put perfectionism on a shelf.
- Avoid or manage interruptions.
- Have assigned places and systems for routine items and tasks.
- Distinguish between activity and productivity.
- Periodically ask yourself, "What is the best use of my time right now?"
- Make "To Do" lists.
- Avoid procrastination.
- Break down large projects into small, "doable" daily pieces.
- Identify your personal time. Note high-low mental, physical, and social energy levels and plan accordingly.
It may be impossible to incorporate all of these tips all at once, but adapting two or three of them and gradually adding more will be an excellent start to managing your time and reducing your stress level.
Good luck and remember -- have fun!
About the Author:
Kathy A. Barney, B.A., R.N., M.A., was Stress Management Coordinator for Indiana State University Student Health Services / Promotion from 1997-2000.