Time Management Strategies for Busy Adult Students

Adjusting to life as a working adult student while managing work, family and life commitments may seem like an uphill climb, but with careful planning and effective strategies you can succeed as an adult student.

Start by setting aside time each day and week for planning using a calendar or planner. Be sure to include classes, shifts at work, important errands, study sessions, family and social engagements on this list.

Set Goals and Deadlines

Most of us feel overwhelmed by juggling multiple tasks at the same time and can become increasingly effective and productive by making changes that will allow more things to get accomplished each day. There are ways you can become more effective and productive while getting more done each day!

Begin with an organized to-do list. Prioritize tasks using an effective framework like Eisenhower Matrix to determine which ones are most critical and urgent. Break larger projects down into manageable steps with mini deadlines in place so as to stay on track and motivated.

Make sure to include leisure time and restorative activities into your schedule - including exercise, nutritious food, adequate rest and socialization - so as to manage stress effectively, maintain physical and mental wellbeing, focus more effectively and cope better with life's unexpected challenges. Regularly incorporate these activities into your agenda.

Create a To-Do List

Prioritization is key when creating your to-do list; otherwise you risk doing the easier tasks first and leaving tougher ones until later, leaving yourself too tired or distracted to even attempt them!

If you have difficulty prioritizing your to-dos, try the Eisenhower Matrix or another productivity method like time blocking to prioritize tasks according to urgency and importance. This will help determine what must be completed now, what can wait until later and what should be delegated out.

Prioritize your work by looking at any recurring or daily tasks and seeing if there are ways you can batch or automate them to make them faster and simpler to complete.

Establish Time Block Schedules

Time blocking can be an invaluable way to take charge of their schedules and take charge of their lives. The technique involves setting aside specific "blocks" of time for tasks that require your full focus - such as meetings with potential clients or finishing important projects. You should reserve certain blocks for high-value tasks, like meetings with prospective clients or finishing important projects; other important activities that matter such as family time, exercise, reading (both for pleasure and professional development), goal setting, life planning and learning new skills may also benefit.

Before creating your blocks, estimate how long each task will take in order to avoid overbooking or underbooking yourself. Make sure there are some wiggle room for unexpected occurrences throughout your day; leave some spaces unbooked in case something unexpected comes up.

Practice the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is an efficient time management strategy that relies on working for 25-minute increments with short breaks in between to help break up large tasks into manageable chunks, improve focus and avoid burnout.

While on your Pomodoro intervals, ensure all technology and other distractions are turned off and removed from the workspace. If thoughts arise that remind you that an email needs replying or you should make a phone call, record them and tell yourself you will address these items during one of your breaks.

While you take breaks, try meditation, walking, visiting with a friend, doodling or anything else that helps you unwind and relax. At the end of each Pomodoros session, reward yourself with an extended 30-minute break!

Say “No”

Learning to say no is an invaluable skill that can assist busy adults in reaching their educational and professional goals. To do so effectively and politely, be clear and concise when explaining why a request was denied.

If your manager asks you to attend a meeting that doesn't align with the scope or project goals for which you work, explain this without feeling guilty or defensive and offer up solutions that meet all parties involved's needs. Your boss might appreciate being informed; they may find something else which works better.

Make sure to observe both tone and body language when making refusals; always aim to say things politely but firmly; avoid sighing or grimacing as this could lead to misinterpretations of what you mean. Finally, set aside time just for yourself, such as reading a book, exercising or relaxing.