It’s that time of the year that students love and hate. As the workload increases staying festive becomes a challenge.
Have you ever sat in your room surrounded by books you had to read for a seminar, whilst starring at your notes trying to decipher what your lecturer actually meant? In the midst of all that your room is a complete mess and the dishes in the kitchen have piled up. Not to mention the fact that you have meetings that you have committed yourself to, and have to attend.
If this sounds familiar, efficiency is key. It’s all about managing your time effectively and planning ahead – not leaving everything to the very last minute!
Having too much work can cause mental health problems including stress, anxiety and depression. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) ”In 2014/15 stress accounted for 35% of all work related ill health cases and 43% of all working days lost due to ill health.”
As a student I have experienced acute stress due to my workload and I have learnt a few tricks to help me avoid the stress and stay merry for Christmas! Here are my 5 top tips:
1. Be organised
You have to know when your deadlines are. Keeping a diary can be very useful for noting down any seminar preparation and exams/assignment due dates. It can also help give you an overall view of the amount of work you have to do for that term.
2. Prioritise
When you get given information about an assignment or an exam, compare the due dates to other exams and assignments. It may also be useful to find out what percentage of that assignment/exam goes towards your overall module mark or degree. After dong so you will find it easier to focus, as you will know exactly where to get start.
3. Time management
You have to manage your time effectively. You don’t necessarily have to submit work on the due date. If you can finish earlier it gives you more time to focus on other assignments and exams.
4. Productivity
Procrastination is a student’s worst enemy – you actually have to get the work done. Get enough sleep and make sure you are eating well, as this can effect the way your brain works. If you get distracted easily then try doing your work in the library.
5. Relaxation
Finally, don’t forget to relax! Don’t just bury yourself in work. Join a sports society, go shopping, or just chill out with your friends, whatever makes you happy.
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