I have slowly convinced myself that I can handle way more than I am actually able. Academics? Got it. Five group projects in two months? Got it. A job? Got it. And the list can go on and on forever. Admittedly, I know these responsibilities can be too much at once, but at the end of the day, I can look back on it and be proud of myself for keeping it under control...somewhat.
With years of experience stretching myself too thin, I have cultivated a number of strategies that help myself accomplish everything on my list, while still maintaining my sanity. Now that the end of the semester is near, you may be overwhelmed with assignments and responsibilities that seem to go on for days. If you struggle with overscheduling yourself, some of this could help you survive the rest of the semester!
1. Recognize your limits.
This has taken me the longest to learn, but it is a lifesaver. Recognize that it's okay to say "no" to things every now and then so that you can handle everything else to which you've committed yourself. To recognize your limits does not make you any lesser of a student, employee, friend or person; it just means that you know what is best for you.
2. Find a method for scheduling and stick to it.
Personally, I stick to a physical planner. Writing things down helps me remember them better, but this is obviously not the only way to schedule your responsibilities. There are a number of apps that you can use to get the job done. I know several people that swear by Google Calendar, too. Just try to keep everything in one or two places so that you have everything laid out in front of you for easy access.
3. Don’t commit to things that will make you physically and mentally exhausted.
This goes hand-in-hand with the first tip. Look out for yourself! Get enough sleep because four hours is not only insufficient, it does not make you a hero of any kind.
4. Make lists.
Lists have saved my life on multiple occasions, so I can't recommend them enough. Again, you can physically write down your tasks for the day or you can use an app. I use the reminders app on my phone for things I need to make quick note of, and then I physically write down a list of things that I need to do that day. I find that this keeps me on track with responsibilities and deadlines.
5. Prioritize your responsibilities so that you can get the maximum done in a short amount of time.
The way that I do this is by putting the easiest things to do at the top of my list. That way I can get them all done quickly and feel more productive in a smaller amount of time. Once I feel productive, it makes tackling my bigger tasks way easier.
6. Keep reminding yourself how much better you'll feel once everything's done.
I really love having nothing to do on Sundays and being able to stay in bed as long as possible. I use this as my main motivator to get everything done during the week and then it feels extra satisfying to wake up in the morning knowing that you have nothing that you absolutely need to do.
7. Don’t try to over-complicate your study habits in the middle of the semester.
Keep it simple. I've seen people try to adopt those crazy, complicated study schedules where they create intricate mind maps and every other word is a different color. If that works for you, then that's great! But if you've never been that person, don't try to make it work because it's only going to stress you out more. It also takes up way more of your time.
8. Keep yourself hydrated, but also treat yourself to a cozy mug of tea or coffee every once in a while
Don't get me wrong, coffee basically runs through my veins, but you will be so exhausted if you're trying to be productive when you're dehydrated. I've definitely been guilty of drinking more coffee than water in a day. But try not to make a habit of it.
These eight things have helped me manage my stress and turn in every assignment I've ever had on time. You just have to figure out how these things will work best for you and commit to it.
