HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME
Time has long been a subject of study in science, religion, and philosophy, and it is incorporated into each aspect of a person’s everyday life.
Time is often one of the more difficult issues for students to tackle. Between time spent in class, after-school activities and family time, there is very little left for anything else.
HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME AS A STUDENT.
1. Eliminate distractions : Get rid of anything that distracts you and allows you to procrastinate your work. While you are studying or writing, turn off your phone’s ringtones and vibrations and put it in a place where you won’t be tempted to answer calls and messages. Allow yourself to check your phone only once per hour. Get off social media and other distractions. Save social media surfing for when you are relaxing.
2. Use a calendar : A calendar will help you manage your time and plan your day. It’ll be an easier way to schedule your appointments and remember your plans. It can also help you to study in blocks and devote time to different courses. Set up a calendar on your phone or computer or even on the wall in a corner of your room and ensure you stick to it. Factor in extra time in case an activity takes longer than expected.
3. Use a checklist : A checklist is a great way to ensure you stay on task and manage your time at the same time, by listing your tasks and checking them off one by one once completed. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment to tick off tasks when completed.
4. Be focused at the task at hand : Have you ever been so focused and devoted to what you are doing that time seems to have flown by? This mental state is called ‘flow’ – when you are completely immersed and involved in an activity. Flow actually makes you feel energized and motivated and increases enjoyment of the activity. To achieve flow, find a challenge, develop your skills, eliminate distractions, set aside enough time, set clear goals and focus completely on the task at hand.
5. Schedule rewards : You need to treat yourself when you do the right thing. Take a few minutes out of every hour to take a break and do something you enjoy, like go for a walk or watch some TV or go to the cinema. The break will also allow your brain to relax and be more productive when you return. However, whatever you do, make sure you don’t overindulge until you have completed your tasks.