10 tips for students to better manage priorities
Finding a balance between school, work, and your social life can seem like an impossible task. There never seems to be enough time in the day to do it all, and the idea of tackling everything on your list can be overwhelming. The key to managing your priorities can be found by taking just a few steps to organize your responsibilities and simplify your life. Following these 10 tips can help you better manage your priorities and transform your daily workload!
1. Keep the big picture in mind
Taking the time to map out your next few weeks or project can be the first step in deciding what you need to prioritize. Keeping the big picture in mind will make it easier to conceptualize your to-do list and keep a clear image of what it will take to achieve your goals.
2. Create a master list of your responsibilities
Listing out what it will take to successfully complete each project on your plate, while also considering your daily responsibilities, will create visibility. Making each task on your to-do list a physical obstacle that you can cross off once done creates a sense of satisfaction that ultimately increases your motivation.
3. Consider deadlines
While seemingly obvious, we often try to tackle the easiest task on our list instead of the more complex jobs without considering deadlines. Although the simpler task may give a sense of satisfaction in the short term, you will be much more grateful that you didn’t wait until the last minute to take on your most difficult responsibility.
4. Break down large tasks
Identifying specific steps for each stage of a more complex task allows you take on difficult projects in a more organized manner. Breaking your most daunting responsibilities down to become smaller, more achievable goals makes any task doable.
5. Outline your day
Your schedule is your biggest asset when it comes to tackling your to-do list. Finding gaps in your day and using them to cross tasks off your to-do list will allow you to take control of your day and use time to your advantage.
6. Plan for the unexpected
Although your schedule can work to your advantage, you should never take it for granted. Always give yourself extra time when considering your deadlines, so that you’re prepared when the unexpected happens.
7. Reward yourself
Take the time to reward your accomplishments. Not only will you have something to look forward to after accomplishing a task, but positive reinforcement also encourages healthy behaviors in the long run. Whether it be a sweet treat or even a 15 minute break to regroup before starting your next project, a moment to reward yourself will make a huge difference.
8. Cut out distractions
If you’re someone that is easily distracted, taking the time to remove yourself from the things that more often than not distract you from the task at hand is worth the effort. Taking the initiative to turn your phone on do not disturb or even find a more secluded place to work can be hard at first, but will ultimately allow you to be more efficient.
9. Use organizations tools
Tools like The Priority Matrix make your life easier by helping with everything from visibility to priority management. The Priority Matrix allows you to conquer your most important day-to-day commitments, while also keeping your high-level goals in mind. This visibility helps you keep track of what you’ve done to utilize these tips and strategies in every project you take on.
10. Establish a weekly routine
Taking small steps to increase your productivity will make any project or task easily achievable. Integrating these tips into your weekly routine will create healthy habits that will make managing your priorities second nature in no time!
