Back-to-School - Efficiency Tips for Adults in School

Clock-Racers

Assignments blow my time away.

I have no chance to work or play!

Turn back the clock today, I pray;

I need more hours in my day!

Back-to-School days are upon us! Are you heading off to class for the first time in many years? Want some tips for managing the workload?

Adults returning to education face a few more challenges than our younger counterparts. Real-life responsibilities, such as careers and families, force us to budget our time wisely. It's a good thing we grownups have all that added maturity to help us cope!

How can we keep all those plates spinning in the air at once?

Stop the Stresses!

Pick your worries carefully. Deadlines, demands, and daily life can work you into a lather, if you let them. Not everything is worth the sweat.

List the things that concern you. Grab a big permanent marker, and scratch off each item that does not warrant your anxiety.

Practice Your Priorities.

As you plot out your day, try to differentiate between what is urgent and what is truly important. Choose your plan of attack accordingly.

Who really needs your attention today? Does your child need help with his or her own academic requirements?

Which assignments are due immediately? Which can wait until the weekend? What are you supposed to be reading for that upcoming book report?

Secure a Studying Spot.

It can be nearly impossible to do homework at home. The entire household (and the house itself) may clamor for your attention. Why not pack it all up and head for the library, a borrowed office, or another private spot? I have even written term papers in my parked car, just because it was quiet and private.

Tally Time-sheets.

Think of your schoolwork, paid work, and housework as if they were all client accounts. Divide your day into 15- or 30-minute chunks, and budget it accordingly. (Even sorting the mail qualifies for this.)

Clean Up Clutter.

Keep your desk clear. Post syllabi and assignment sheets on corkboard over your desk with your calendar, so you can keep track of due dates. File away anything that's not current or timely.

Turn Off the TV.