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Kansas State University

MANAGING MY TIME MEANS MANAGING ME

Academic success is closely connected to successful use of time. We all have the same 24 hours available each day, but not all of us have developed the ATTITUDE about using that time to make it work effectively. Here are 5 THINGS YOU CAN DO to enhance your academic success through better use of your time!

  1. Make the decision to manage your time by managing yourself!
    This is your life! You control it, or it controls you. Choose your goals
    and make them happen. There is nothing mysterious here: It is
    your decision to study instead of watch TV. It is your decision to
    start writing papers early.
  2. Pay attention to your time! Don't fritter it away.
    Be aware of how you move through your life! Don't delay chores or
    assignments. Pay attention to what you can do now. Then, do it.

  3. Make lists and carry a calendar!
    Then use them! Staying organized will maximize your time
    effectiveness. Write it down: track yourself with lists, plan your
    time with the calendar, and don't get lost in the process of
    organizing things. Organization is the tool, not the goal.
  4. Anticipate your life!
    Be realistic! Anticipate changing needs and demands, and be flexible
    in accommodating them. That includes taking care of yourself-eat
    healthy, sleep enough hours, exercise regularly, and make unscheduled
    time available regularly. Know your time wasters and plan for them.
  5. Learn to say NO!
    You can't do it all! Thoughtfully consider your options, set your
    priorities, then organize your plans. Don't pack plans into every
    moment, and don't expect yourself to always do it all. Say NO to
    competing demands and requests and wishes. Delegate when you can.
    Then relax and use your time to move toward your goals.


Written by Joyce Woodford
Kansas State University Counseling Services, Manhattan, KS © 2001