The FLY@UP program focuses on getting students to finish their degrees on time.
It means that time management is a critical part of the plan to ensure that all assignments are completed and submitted on time, exam prep is done over the year and not crammed into a few days, and there is time planned for rest, sleep, and socialising. It may be a good idea to get a handle on time management before the academic year starts in full force!
Here are a few time management tips you can use to set yourself up for success:
Plan ahead
It may sound simple, but with your many daily tasks and distractions, if you don’t plan and stick to the plan, you can quickly run out of time to complete essential tasks and school work.
Build a daily, weekly, and monthly schedule that you stick to as much as possible.
You can build in buffers and extra days so that you can replace the day with a free one if something critical comes up.
Avoid multi-tasking
Multi-tasking may feel like you are getting more done, but it is far less productive than you think.
Do tasks from start to finish and block book your diary to allow yourself enough time to get the job done.
The only things you can combine are catching up on the news while traveling or exercising or seeing friends for a catch up during a workout.
Set up your workspace or virtual classroom
Giving yourself a space to work that is more formalised than your res room bed is the key to success. Keep your desk tidy, so you feel like working there. Clear your inbox every day so you stay on top of your tasks and emails.
Block out distractions
If you need to put a Do Not Disturb sign on your chair to avoid distractions and interruptions, then do that. Adding headphones when working in a public space that may be noisy is also an excellent trick to use. Alternatively, head to the library where you know you will get peace and quiet.
Reward yourself
When you have completed your week's work, take a break, and reward yourself with something nice. It can be a trip to get Ice cream, a coffee with a friend, or a movie. It is essential to give yourself the downtime to reflect on the job well done.
Get enough sleep
Tracking your sleep can be done with a few apps or fitness trackers. Giving yourself hard cut off times can also ensure you get enough rest for your brain to reset.
Give these tips a try and see how your productivity soars.