I start my day the night before by laying out my clothes, creating a checklist of classes and work, and checking off my calendar. Since classes were moved online, I do all of my school stuff on the table in my kitchen to keep my workspace separate from my bedroom. I get homework done before turning on a Netflix show to binge, but I take breaks often throughout my day. My breaks vary in length. Sometimes I’ll just make and enjoy my coffee, while other times I’ll go for a run outside. Although I consider myself decent at time management, I don’t have that many distractions when I’m at my apartment alone. 

            With classes and all activities online for the next week or so, managing time wisely can become a challenge. It’s easy to show up to class unprepared or forget you have class altogether. You don’t have to go anywhere, so alarms can be pushed back, pajamas become acceptable attire, and for the most part, professors can’t tell whether or not you are paying attention. Class is different now, and it’s been like that since March of last year for many. 

            So, what does effective time management look like in the virtual learning world? Northeastern University in Boston reports that time management in the digital age is easier than ever; it only requires seven steps: planning ahead, avoiding multitasking, setting up a virtual office, blocking out distractions, rewarding yourself, creating a balance, and getting a good night’s sleep. 

While these are great key ideas to consider, one list is not going to work for everyone. People vary so a good night’s sleep is subjective, just as many of the other steps are. Planning ahead is one of the steps that I take advantage of daily, but that’s not going to work for someone who doesn’t like keeping a planner or making lists as much as I do. 

These online lists always seem to be written by someone as Type A as me, but what about the students who are not? Other websites that feature tips for time management consider looking at one’s  personality type first. What motivates you? What routines do you do already? How can you expand that routine? 

The New York Times suggests that the appropriate time management for you could be found by first considering how productive and how organized you already are. For example, I would like to get better at relaxing during my free time. To do this, I’m going to start by trying to make more time for running because that’s how I relax. It’s important for me to first consider which days I could designate more time to run. I’m busy Monday through Thursday all day, so Fridays might be a good day to try and work out. 

Time management is about prioritizing what needs to get done, and then adding what you want to get done. Needs are the things you cannot live without (food, water, shelter). College needs could also be graduating on time, showing up to class even when it’s on Zoom, or passing all of your classes this semester.