Student Blog: Managing a Busy Schedule: My Favorite Tools and Tricks

Between classes, tech theater, and lab work, my days are packed! Figuring out how to stay on top of everything took some trial and error, but I’ve found a few strategies that actually make a difference. Here are some simple tools and tricks I swear by to keep my life (and my brain) organized.

1. Blocking Out My Day on Google Calendar

I use Google Calendar to keep track of everything and color-code events based on what they are. I set aside specific “blocks” for class, work, and rehearsals, so I can see how my day is mapped out. Breaking my day into chunks also helps me focus—I know exactly what I need to work on when, and I’m less tempted to check my phone or get sidetracked.

2. Prioritizing with a “Must-Do” List

Long to-do lists can be overwhelming, so I stick to a “must-do” list for each day. I jot down the top three things that have to get done, so even if I get sidetracked, I’ll still feel productive by the end of the day. If I finish early, I can always add more tasks, but this way, I stay focused on what’s actually important.

3. The Two-Minute Trick for Quick Tasks

Here’s a rule I love: if a task will take less than two minutes, I just do it right away. So, if I get a quick email or need to confirm an appointment, I handle it right then and there. This way, small tasks don’t pile up and take over my day.

4. Setting Small Goals Every Week

Instead of setting big, stressful goals, I break them down into bite-sized tasks I can handle week by week. For example, if I’m working on a big project, I’ll set a goal to just finish one part of it each week. This makes big goals feel way less overwhelming—and I get to celebrate the little wins along the way.

5. Taking Time for Myself

This one is super important: I make sure to carve out time to relax, whether it’s playing my ukulele, going to a football game, or just hanging out with friends. And yes, sometimes that means kicking back and watching a musical bootleg! Let’s be real—when you love theater as much as I do, there’s something so satisfying about watching your favorite shows whenever you need a pick-me-up. Taking these breaks keeps me energized, and having little moments like these to look forward to makes getting back to work easier and a lot more fun.

The bottom line is that managing a packed schedule can be a challenge, but these simple tools make it a lot easier to handle. Staying organized, focusing on what matters most, and making time for fun helps me feel balanced, no matter how busy things get. Here’s to making it all work!