Making a schedule is something we have all done. We have a perception about how long we can stay productive without having a break, how long our break should be, etc. One things that is common in most of our cases is that we tend to give up on our schedule once we find it’s hard to keep up with it. If I make a schedule for myself, this is how it would like-
9:00- 10:00 study
10:00- 10:30 laundry
10:30- 12 study
And what usually happens is that, I give up in between and start doing as I please and end up wasting a lot of time. The key to making an easy schedule is ‘not to overestimate’ ourselves. What mostly happens while making is a schedule is that we overestimate ourselves and pack up the day with a lot of deadlines with less or no breaks at all. This will stress us out and we will be unable to follow the schedule or finish work. So, here are a few tips to keep in mind while we make a schedule.
1. Plan the day before
Have you ever felt a little frustrated or nervous when you had to do something on short notice? This cannot be avoided all the time. There will be things you’d have to do on short notice like present a paper, meet your boss, etc. One positive aspect about planning your day before it starts is that while you are asleep, your brain prepares yourself for that task i.e.,you are unconsciously preparing yourselves for the following day. This way you can be more effective in your task and will help you to give your best at it.
2. Take regular breaks
I’m scared to take breaks because of not being able to get back on track. But recently I’ve been forcing myself to take breaks. Even though it might take you quite some time to get back on track, taking a break is important as it help clear your mind and will rejuvenate you. While taking breaks try to not spend the whole time on electronics. Find something else, like listening to music, drinking some water, a short walk, etc. Do anything that will take your mind off from your books. This will also help you to be extra productive.
3. Be prepared for distractions
You can never avoid distractions. Either it would be a phone call, or someone at the door or any of that sort. The key is to leave an hour at the end of the day, so that you can finish off any work that is undone. When distraction comes don’t let it consume an hour of your day, rather spend minimal time on it, unless it is urgent. If urgent attend to it and try to finish your work before you go to bed.
If you weren’t able to finish a task before you go to sleep, try to do it the next day itself than delaying it any further.
Comment below and let me your thoughts. Also if there are any tips you have please feel free to share.