It’s officially the time when pumpkin spice reigns, but also the season of school scaries. Those midterm projects you forgot about are piling up, extracurriculars are in full swing, and the stress is creeping in. I used to be the queen of procrastination, coffee, and all-nighters in the library. I found that this was not a sustainable cycle- although I still would like to keep my title of coffee connoisseur. Here’s a guide to tips I’ve used to stay focused during hectic times- I’ve learned the hard way so you don’t have to.
1. Use a color coded calendar
I will now write a love letter to the ever efficient google calendar. This tool is SO useful and easy to understand at a quick glance. If you're a person who runs from place to place, this is a simple way to make sure all the information you need is accessible in one place. I have created separate, colored calendars for categories such as friends, school, and work.
2. Add addresses and/ or room numbers
When I add things to my calendar, I also make sure to put addresses and room numbers. If I'm running late, I never have to feverishly scroll through my email looking for the place i’m headed. Keeping everything just a tap away makes your life run smoother.
3. Set Reminders
Downloading a reminders app was the best decision I’ve ever made. (Not to be dramatic, but also to be dramatic.) This has saved me when it comes to little tasks such as switching my wash into the dryer, or giving me the nudge to complete my homework earlier than it’s due.
4. Create fake due dates
As a recovering procrastinator, I know the temptation of putting things off until the night before. I used to tell myself ‘it’s okay because you work better under pressure,’ along with a million other excuses. Creating a fake due date has helped me combat this- I pretend things are due the day before the actual date. I genuinely immerse myself into this fake due date and stick to it- that way if I genuinely have a problem I don't have to email my professor “hey lol you up?” at 2 am. Kidding. Don’t do that.
5. Give yourself positive affirmations
It can be easy to wallow in staring at your ‘to-do’ list. In times where it feels like you’ve got too much on your plate, it’s okay to get a little cheesy with it. You’re more likely to get things done when you feel like the boss you are. You deserve all those pinterest quotes and positive affirmations. I have my laptop wallpaper with a quote, “Compete with yourself, not with others #girlboss.” This reminds me that I can celebrate in other’s successes without feeling like I need to compare myself. Find something that aligns with your purpose, and give yourself that little boost whenever you see it. A gift to you, from you!
This blog post was written by Haley Williams, Director of Fundraising.