working on getting a visual

Editors note: Even though Emma Ledbetter has graduated, the Daily Evergreen has decided to continue the Ask Emma segment with a new author in honor of our friend Emma and all the people she has helped. 

Dear Emma, 

I am having trouble adjusting to college life, and all of the independence I now have. I have always been extremely close with my family, and not having them around has been pretty difficult. I find myself forgetting due dates, and am getting really overwhelmed trying to manage my day without someone there to remind me. I may have also been spending a little too much time socializing.  What do I do with all of this time on my hands, and with no one there to keep me on track? 

Sincerely, 

Needing guidance

Dear Needing Guidance, 

Making the transition into College is anything but easy, especially if your family played such a large role in keeping you on track. Time management is a learned skill, but here are a few of my personal tips and tricks to keep you on track, and hopefully ease your mind as well. 

First, keep a planner. I strongly believe that physically writing down each and every task you have to do for the week makes your life much easier. Once you have completed a task like a homework assignment, doing laundry, or taking a quiz, you can check that item off of your list, which almost feels like a little reward! 

I also find that socializing is more fulfilling if I don’t feel like I have a huge list of responsibilities looming over me. Motivate yourself to do your daily tasks knowing you will get to relax and have fun later on once you finish. Trying to hastily do your tasks, or worse, not doing them at all to make room for socializing, will soon spiral out of control, and can become too much to manage. 

Be kind and patient with yourself. It is okay to feel overwhelmed and confused at first, this is a major change in your life in all aspects. Try and allow calm time for yourself each day, even if it is only a few minutes. Writing in a journal, listening to music with your eyes closed, or taking a trip to the gym are all great ways to take time for yourself, and check in with yourself. We often forget to really internally check in and see how we are truly feeling inside. Sometimes, it is even helpful to remind yourself to do this in your planner! 

I hope these simple tips help put your mind at ease and give you some solid starting points on the road to learning how to balance and manage your new independent life. Good Luck!

Best, 

Emma