Unlike in high school, no one checks if you’ve managed your time well in college. It’s entirely on you. Seems a little scary, yes? If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed by the new freedom that college provides, don’t fret! College is the best time to learn how to become your own boss.

Set a Schedule & Stick to It

Create a daily schedule that outlines your to-dos and prioritize them based on importance. First, write down all your classes, events, club meetings, and work. Next, plan your meals, chores, and when you’ll sleep. Talk to your roommate(s) about the best way to divide chore responsibilities. Then, list down any fun social events you have for the week. By prioritizing your time, you can effectively manage your responsibilities and prevent last-minute stress.

Most importantly, be sure to leave yourself plenty of downtime as well. This will help you avoid burning out. Writing everything down can help you stay on top of deadlines. Digital scheduling tools, in particular, can be customized with alerts, color coding, and recurring events, making it easier to visualize your week and plan.

Learn to Say No

Set schedule boundaries for yourself. In college, you’re bound to feel a lot of FOMO (fear of missing out). Your roommates and friends may be doing many fun things right around when you plan to study for an exam. It’s essential to learn how to say “no” to distractions. Setting these boundaries early with your friends is vital. Letting them know that you value their company and don’t want to miss out on the fun, while also making it clear that your academic responsibilities are a top priority, sets the tone for healthy, balanced relationships.

Prioritize Your Health

Try to get eight hours of sleep every night. Without sufficient sleep, your concentration, memory, and overall mood can suffer, making it more challenging to perform academically. A whole night of rest will prepare you for the day ahead.

Don’t skip out on meals! If your college dining hall hours don’t align with your class or activity schedule, plan ahead by keeping snacks in your dorm, such as granola bars, pretzels, or trail mix, to keep your energy up throughout the day. Stock your mini fridge with easy-to-grab options and have a few microwaveable meals on hand for late-night study sessions.

Schedule time to exercise. Incorporate physical activity into your routine by attending the fitness center or taking exercise classes. Even walking around campus is an excellent way to de-stress. 

Plan for the Unexpected

Your plans may change, once-in-a-lifetime opportunities may pop up, and unexpected events are bound to occur while you’re at college. Don’t be afraid to create a flexible contingency plan that allows room for spontaneity. It’s essential to know how to pivot when the situation demands it.

In college, you’ll learn the importance of taking full ownership of your time, responsibilities, and personal growth. These skills will help you succeed academically and build the foundation for independence and success in your future career and personal life.

Best of luck!