College athletes have busy, and often stressful, schedules. Between everything you have to do for school and your sport, it can be overwhelming. I've compiled 6 tips on how to optimize your time and make your student-athlete experience a little easier to manage.
- Write things down
I suggest having a planner with your whole schedule and due dates written down. This helps you see the bigger picture of the tasks you need to accomplish and when you should start them.
I also create a checklist each morning that lists the things I need to complete in order on that day. Crossing things off makes me feel like I have achieved something while getting my work done.
Related: 7 Ways to Reset after a Long Week
- Be in the moment
Whether you are at practice, workouts, school, or working on homework, make sure you are only focused on the task in front of you. Giving your all in that moment will make you feel satisfied with what you are doing. Not focusing on other things will also leave you less stressed and more focused, so you can get that task done more quickly.
- Eat, Sleep, Hydrate, Repeat
This is pretty self-explanatory, but if you're not eating healthy, sleeping enough, and staying hydrated, completing your daily routine will be much harder.
Related: 6 Tips to Improve Your Sleep Schedule
- Find 30 minutes for you
It may be hard to find time for yourself, but you will notice a big difference when you do. In this time you can journal, meditate, read, or do anything that isn't focused on your sport or school. It will help you be less stressed and more ready to take on the day.
Related: Athletes: Starting Your Book Club
- Downtime is your friend
Even if you have 15 minutes of nothing, something can always be done. You can take a power nap, write a discussion, or get treatment for your sport. Whatever it is, make sure it is benefitting you.
Related: 4 Tips on Time Management for College Athletes
- Don't spread yourself too thin
You already have a busy schedule, so don't take on too many things. The more things you say yes to, the less time you have for yourself, which may lead to you not getting important things done.
* Originally published on November 4, 2021, by Anna Garrett