Being busy is super common in today’s society. Everyone is always doing something, and life can get a little crazy when your schedule gets hectic. I have so much to do and really take focus on managing my time! Follow these few tips to lower your stress levels and manage your time.

1. Keep a Digital Calendar

My iCal keeps me going. I schedule each of my events on there, and sync my calendar to both my computer and my phone, so I always know what's on my schedule for the day. Sometimes I'm so frazzled after school and forget that I need to bring my dance bag with me the next day, or I realize I have extra time to schedule a pilates class later. It's SO helpful and I always what know my schedule is in advance - this is especially great when I need to schedule a doctor's appointment or something. The iCal technique also lets you visually understand how you spend your time.

Here's what my iCal looks like:

2. Block Out Distractions

Yes, I'm asking you not to go on Instagram or Snapchat when you're doing something important. While I know they're tempting, sometimes you just have to practice self-control. When I'm doing homework or practicing for theatre, I put my phone away. Like, on the other side of the room away. I can focus, finish what I'm doing faster and better, and then when I get back to my phone I usually have a lot of notifications.

3. Plan Out Your Homework

THIS. THIS IS A LIFESAVER. Instead of planning 3-6pm as "Homework Time," plan out what you're going to do for your homework within that time. You can even take the first 10 minutes to do that. Here's a sample schedule:

4. Schedule Things Ahead of Time

Lastly, plan out your life. If you want to work up to running 3 miles, plan out which days you're going to run and label them "Run 1 mile," "Run 1.5 miles," and so on. If you need to start stretching more, add in 30 minutes of stretching to your schedule every other day. Planning out your schedule will help you plan out your life and add in (or take out) things. You'll be able to spend your time how you want instead of just taking each day by storm and being stressed all the time.