College life can be quite an adjustment. Students often find their lives and schedules in upheaval very soon after entering the hallowed halls of higher education. The challenges of academia can seem overwhelming at times. However, there are strategies that could prove helpful not only in one’s pursuit of higher learning, but also in maintaining a balanced lifestyle while doing so. Here are some tips on time management and maintaining a balanced lifestyle while immersed in college life.

One of the key strategies for managing time and maintaining a balanced lifestyle is developing a schedule. A schedule provides college students with a guideline to tackle all of their tasks at hand and also allows them to include time for special events, exercise, social gatherings, etc. that are key to maintaining a balanced lifestyle while ensconced in college life.

Another tip for time management and a balanced lifestyle includes learning to allow one’s self time to go off the grid. Given all the stressors inherent in this increasingly tech-savvy age, getting away from technological devices removes all the alerts, notifications, and digital interruptions, as well as provides downtime and a period of relaxation from the chaos to allow an individual to recharge and restore their equilibrium. In addition, it also helps an individual regain their perspective and peace of mind. Maybe a student could enjoy a long hike through the woods or a power walk along the river and leave their electronic devices at home. As a safety measure, it would be advisable to carry a cell phone set to silent in case of emergency.

Another college life tip that could prove very helpful in managing time and maintaining a balanced lifestyle is focusing on short-term goals, as opposed to the ‘big picture.’ Instead of fixating on the grand plan, a student could focus on the smaller steps necessary to attaining their ultimate goal. By setting short-term goals, students could avoid unnecessary additional stress associated with what might seem like an overwhelming long-range goal. Stress of this nature can often result in depleted reserves and excessive anxiety, which could lead to a variety of illnesses and setbacks.

Additional tips that are essential to maintaining a balanced lifestyle and time management include establishing a strong support system and asking for help in times of adversity. Help could come in many forms–a close friend, a loved one, tutor, roommate, a therapist, or whatever form of assistance provides a student with understanding and a sense of security. Seeking out a study group and surrounding one’s self with people who can offer scholastic encouragement, guidance, and academic comradery when a student is feeling overwhelmed or insecure could help an individual with coping strategies, decision-making, and provide clarity in times of uncertainty.

Other invaluable college life tips that are essential to maintaining a balanced lifestyle and time management involve daily exercise and healthy eating habits. These strategies are not only beneficial for the student’s physical and mental health at any age, but they also provide the individual with the energy needed to complete their daily tasks. The healthier a student is physically, the more they can endure physically and mentally. The more developed their coping mechanisms, the better they can manage stress on all fronts.

College life can be quite an adjustment and students often find their lives and equilibrium in upheaval after entering the hallowed halls of higher education. The challenges of academia can seem overwhelming at times. However, there are a number of strategies that could be employed to assist in one’s pursuit of higher learning, and also in maintaining a balanced lifestyle while doing so. Time management and maintaining a balanced lifestyle are essential keys to success while immersed in college life.

By Leigh Haugh

Sources:
Newsday
Idaho State Journal
Bucyrus Telegraph Forum