1. Remember Why You Started

While it may seem like a distant memory, you initiated your academic pursuits for a reason — chances are it was a compelling one! Take some time to remember the big dreams, burning goals, and urgent aspirations that drove you to sign up for your program.

Gratitude is a powerful force. Set aside a few minutes to write out:

• Your original goals

• How they’ve changed

• Your hope for the future

This simple exercise will provide you some perspective and much-need motivation as you set about creating a school schedule.

2. Be Realistic About Your Time Constraints

The reality is: you have responsibilities outside of your schoolwork. Before you create your study schedule, start logging the time it takes to complete your day-to-day activities. Be realistic about the time it will take you to fulfill your other obligations, so you can create an achievable and realistic study plan.

On average, a full-time employee’s day might look like this:

• 9 hours sleeping

• 1.5 hours eating

• 8 hours working

• 1.5 hours on housework

All told, these basic activities consume about 20 hours of the day. Everyone is unique, so take the time to write out your own schedule and consider how much time you will have to study. For example, the average American might have between 2 and 4 hours left over for their studies.

3. Log Your Screen Time

If you’re struggling to fit everything into your day, take a look at the way you’re spending your time. Without realizing it, you may be wasting hours scrolling on your smartphone. We’ve all been there, but — fortunately — there are many apps that can help you cut down on your screen time and develop healthier habits. Building an awareness of how you spend your time is the key to managing a hectic schedule. You may even find that you appreciate the time away from your phone to focus on your studies, uninterrupted by social media.

4. Use a Planner

Whether you prefer paper or digital, a day planner is a must-have for any student. Creating a concrete schedule with actionable to-do items provides a host of benefits for busy adults. You can even use one of the many excellent planner apps designed specifically for hard-working students.

Once you’ve chosen your preferred method of planning, take some time each week to write out:

• Upcoming assignments

• Personal appointments

• Approaching deadlines

• Semester or quarter-long projects

Setting aside a designated time — like a Sunday evening — will help you keep tabs on all of the aspects of your school, work, and personal schedules. You’ll start the week off focused and feeling less stressed.

5. Use Your Support System

It can be stressful striking a successful school life balance, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone on your journey! Remember to reach out to trusted friends, family, and Student Services when you need help. MedCerts is on your side as you work towards your career goals.