From career changers, to the underemployed, to moms seeking to rejoin the workforce, many adults are re-entering school, particularly online colleges offering lots of flexibility. Going back to school as an adult can be a big adjustment, as balancing multiple responsibilities involving family and work is likely required. Proper time management for adult students is critical to achieving academic success.
Here are ten quick tips from AcademixDirect for adult learners to use their time more efficiently:
1. Write a daily to-do list with separate categories for school, work, and home to keep you on track throughout the day.
2. Own up to any old tendencies to procrastinate when facing homework (trips to the fridge, etc.) that may resurface upon returning to school; make a written pact with yourself to avoid these old habits.
3. Use time management applications on your cell phone or PDA.
4. Delegate some of your household chores to other family members so you can focus on studying.
5. Make good use of any “waiting around” time by always keeping a textbook or class notes on hand.
6. Figure out what time of day you’re most productive and then tackle your toughest class assignments during your peak energy hours.
7. Create a “no interruption” study zone in your home for guilt-free studying.
8. Set daily and weekly deadlines for yourself and stick to them.
9. Try to find a “study buddy” with similar work/life demands so you can schedule mutually convenient study times.
10. Make time in your weekly activities for family and friends so you can achieve a sense of life balance.