Time management is an indispensable skill for students at Oklahoma State University. It’s practically impossible to balance academics, social activities, jobs, and a personal life without effective time management strategies. Try some of these:
Create a Schedule
Start by creating a detailed schedule that includes your classes, study hours, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments. Use a digital calendar or planner to stay organized and ensure you don’t overlook any important tasks.
Do Important Things First
Identify the most critical tasks and prioritize them based on deadlines and importance. This builds confidence and momentum throughout the day.
Set SMART Goals
A goal is SMART if it is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and timely. Do your goals satisfy those criteria?
Learn to Say No
College life is full of social events and opportunities, so it’s essential to learn to say no when your plate is full. Know your limits and prioritize academics.
Reduce Time Wasting
Identify activities that eat up your time without contributing to your goals. Minimize social media, gaming, and TV time, and redirect that time towards more productive pursuits.
Physical Planners/Calendars
Writing things down is more effective than typing them into your phone or laptop. Try a planner (like the one from Mortar Board) or a tabletop calendar to help visually organize your week.
Take Breaks
Taking regular study breaks is important. Short breaks (ex. 15 min every 2 hours) during intense study sessions help recharge your mind and improve productivity.
Make Tech Work For You
Cell phones have a bad reputation for being a distraction, however, you can download apps to help you manage your time, and you can also set limits on app usage that will help keep you on task.
Delegate, Defer, Do
Some tasks can be handled better by someone else, delegate these. Some tasks can be done just as effectively later, defer these. After you delegate and defer what you can, what you’re left with are tasks that only you can do. This will help you manage your workload and give others opportunities to lead.
Review and Adjust
Regularly review your time management strategies to identify areas for improvement. Adjust your schedule as needed to adapt to unexpected events or changes in priorities.
Seek Help When Needed
If you find yourself struggling to manage your time effectively, seek guidance from advisors, counselors, or time management workshops.
By creating a schedule, setting goals, and reducing time-wasting activities, you can make the most of your time. Implement these time-management strategies to unlock your potential and thrive during your time at Oklahoma State University!
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