Do you feel you're juggling a lot at uni?

Juggling the demands of your studies, maintaining a social life, and carving out valuable personal time can feel like an overwhelming task. This is especially true when you have several assignments due close together, which adds to the pressure. 

However, with the right strategies and a bit of discipline, you can master the art of time management and strike a healthy balance between these essential aspects of your life, even during the most challenging times.

Prioritise and plan
The first step to effective time management is setting clear priorities. Create a schedule that includes your classes, study sessions, social engagements, and personal time. By having a visual representation of your commitments, you'll be better equipped to manage your time effectively and ensure that you have a well-rounded university experience.

Set realistic goals
When faced with multiple assignments or commitments, break them down into smaller, manageable chunks. Set realistic goals for each study session and social engagement and tackle them one at a time. This approach will help you maintain focus, avoid feeling overwhelmed, and ensure that you’re able to effectively manage important aspects of your life.

Use time-blocking and be flexible
Time-blocking involves dedicating specific blocks of time to particular tasks. Think of it like making – and keeping – an appointment with the dentist. Allocate time blocks for studying, socialising, and personal time, taking into account their importance and urgency. However, be flexible and willing to adjust your schedule when necessary. If an unexpected social opportunity arises, consider whether it’s something you can make time for or whether it's going to create unnecessary stress.

Make the most of your social time
When spending time with friends or doing something fun, we can often feel like we “should be doing something more productive.” As a result, we feel stressed by our sense of guilt and lose out on enjoying the experience we’re having. When you’re with friends or doing something you enjoy, for that time, forget about your studies and other commitments. Allowing yourself to take a break and have a life outside your work will help you to de-stress, recharge, and have more energy and focus when you return to your studies and other commitments.

Learn to say, “No.”
While it's important to maintain a social life, it's equally crucial to learn to say no when necessary. If you have a pressing assignment or need some personal time to recharge, don't be afraid to decline social invitations. You can always make other plans later, and probably the last thing you want is to feel like you “have to” or “should” accept the social invitation, where it becomes turned into a chore on the to-do list. 

Prioritise self-care
Amid the demands of university life, it's essential to prioritise self-care to avoid burnout. Set aside time for activities that promote your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or pursuing a hobby. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it's a necessity for maintaining your health and well-being.

Don't hesitate to seek support from your friends, academic advisors, or Sunway's counselling services if you feel overwhelmed. Remember, you're not alone, and there are always people willing to help you navigate the challenges of university life.

"The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities."  ~ Stephen Covey