The core of what my vlog talks about are my top five strategies on how to handle a busy schedule. Below, I have given more insight into what my top 5 strategies are and what they involve.
- Manage your time
Time management is the most important attribute when juggling a crazy schedule. A lot of other girls on my volleyball team have a difficult time managing their busy lives. As an observant person, I have learned from others, and made myself a more proactive person by being mindful of how I’m spending my time. When I have time to do my schoolwork, I do it. I know that if I don’t get it done then, I will be more stressed later on.
- Use a calendar
I never knew the value of a calendar until I had one set up. Having a calendar always on hand is the crucial tool to less stress. Juggling a busy schedule is a lot to have spinning in my brain continuously. When my mom started putting events into my calendar about a year ago, I realized how less stressed I was. Since then, I use my calendar daily. A pro tip is to use a colour coding system. It helps visually when you have a lot of events in one day, so they don’t all get jumbled. I recommend calendars to everyone because one’s stress decreases significantly when using a calendar.
- Take advantage of free time
Do what makes you happy. That’s my go to phrase when I realize I have a gift of free time. Yes, volleyball and theatre are things that make me happy, but sometimes I want to go for a walk outside or read a book. I believe the key is to refrain from using my phone or social media. Take some time to reconnect with the earth. This could be going for a walk, eating outside, or simply breathing in some fresh air.
- Preparation for the next few days is key
Preparation is something so little that has a big impact. When I prep for the next few days, I can relax more when I am at home. I also get more sleep because I don’t have to do the preparation in the morning. People who value the amount of sleep they get, preparation is a promising idea to have a more balanced sleep schedule. This could include packing your lunch, or meal prepping. Whatever makes you feel the least amount of stress.
- Remember to take care of yourself
At the end of the day, taking care of yourself should be everyone’s top priority. For most, it is not. People tend to prioritize their activities rather than their own well-being. I used to have that mentality, but after 2 years of having minimal free time, when I need a break, I take one. I keep reminding myself that taking time for me. My mental health and well-being are just as important as my prioritization to my commitments. Taking care of yourself could be taking a shower, watching your favourite TV show or reading a book.
A busy schedule may be intimidating at first, however, using successful strategies to stay organized and reminding yourself to take time to regroup after a hard day can make having a busy schedule less stressful and more enjoyable.