Time Management – Making your first year easier

Amy
Slaven

Having
a structured time management guide really helped me through my first year of
study it helped me stay on top of my assignments and study. This guide reduced
my stress levels as it highlighted where I needed to focus my time first.

The
most important time management guide I used was having a calendar. My calendar
provided myself with information regarding when assignments were due, what days
I was working and what responsibilities I needed to uphold. I made sure that my
Gmail calendar was linked to my phone and laptop so I would receive
notifications and alarms when events were about to occur. These notifications
and alarms ensured I submitted all my assessment on time.

Setting
priorities is a key time management factor, deciding what tasks that are urgent
and important during high stress times when numerous assessments are due.
Writing a to do list will help
you priories task and help you through your first year with less stress.  During periods where I have multiple assignments
due around the same time, if required I would reduce my work hours. This
allowed myself sufficient time to complete the task successfully.

My social networks and events
previously have come before study and work commitments however, I had to change
this mindset and make study is my number one priority. I began to make time for
both by delegating time to spend with friends but also enough time to complete
assignments and study. This also required me to notify friends and family that
I had to study on particular days and times of the day, so I would not get
distracted by anyone. Also by turning my phone off or selecting ‘Do not Disturb Mode’ when
studying or completely jobs will assist, making sure that the TV or music isn’t
on when I’m working, this will reduce distraction and support me to remain
focused.

One of the strategies I used during
my first year was making large tasks smaller and dividing them into small segments. For
example doing one hour of work each night rather than 5 hours all together
would work in my circumstances.  This
worked particularly well when essays were due. Writing over 1000 words looked
like an overwhelming task however one night I would finish the Introduction,
following night my first two paragraphs, I would continue until I completed the
essay.

Setting enough time so I get enough sleep and time to relax; this
helps reduce stress levels and overall will improve my quality of work. Also
spending time to look after my body and health. This puts me in a positive mindset
and improves my thinking and allows me to create better work. Eating healthy
and continually exciting is also an important aspect of providing the best work
possible.

Also by placing myself in a respected environment, for example going
straight to my local library rather than going home and being interrupted. Being
healthy is also a vital strateg, this will keep my mind clear, allowing me to be focused.

All these little tools are so important too unsure I managed my
time effectively and efficiently. These strategies will help assist you through
your first year of study and make it less stressful and much more enjoyable.