Starting a new semester and adjusting to a new schedule can be a bit of a challenge. So, here are five tips to make that transition a little smoother.
To Do List
Write a to-do list for each day, and be sure to include some easier tasks so you get a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment (putting ‘Wake Up’ or ‘Brush Teeth’ at the top of your list is totally valid!). I also use this to help me break up longer assignments. This way, the assignment doesn’t feel so tedious, and I feel more accomplished as I go along. Keep in mind that it’s okay to not cross everything off – don’t feel bad, and know that tomorrow is a new day.
Plan Ahead
In a similar vein, write out your assignments for the week. I prefer to work week by week, rather than create a long list of assignments at the beginning of the semester. This way, if deadlines change, I’m more on top of it and can plan my days accordingly
Create A Schedule
Once you figure out a schedule for each day, try to stick to it. For example, if doing laundry on Thursday is easy and doesn’t require much planning, do it at the same time next week. That way, you know what to expect and don’t have to think too much about it. Also, I’ve found that simply having a routine makes life easier.
Sunday Reset
Participate in a Sunday reset. Take a couple of hours (you probably won’t need much more than that) and prepare yourself for the upcoming week. For me, this means creating my weekly to-do list and tackling a few assignments, so that I can ease into the week. I usually try to accomplish what’s due on Mondays and Tuesdays so that I stay two days ahead of my work. If something comes up, I’m better prepared for it.
Take Time For Yourself
Finally, make sure to take time for yourself! It can be easy to get sucked into all the work you have to do, so be sure to either spend time doing fun things with your friends or take a day and spend it in bed watching TV. Personally, I keep my Saturdays free from schoolwork. Instead, I sleep in, have a long breakfast with my friends and watch a few episodes of whatever TV show I’m working my way through. I also make sure I have time for at least one me thing each day. Usually, this is dinner with friends, going to the gym, taking some time to read or watching a TV show. This can also be getting yourself a little treat to motivate yourself on a day with a big workload. Stop at Dunkin for a donut or get a drink from Starbucks. I find that the me thing of the day helps me stay motivated and have a better school-life balance during the week.
I hope this list gave you some ideas on how to settle into the new semester, and I hope you all have a wonderful and successful Spring Semester!
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