For student-athletes, time management can seem impossible. With an abundance of schoolwork, practices, and other commitments, finding balance can be a daunting challenge. But it doesn’t have to be! By making smart decisions and taking advantage of organizational tools, balancing work, school, and training can become achievable. Let’s delve into the world of time management for student-athletes and make it easier to master the delicate art of balance.
1. Juggling the Three-Way Circus: A Student-Athlete’s Everyday Struggle
For student-athletes, life can often be a three-ring circus, with plenty of juggling and plates spinning at the same time. From practice and skills development, to academics and extracurricular activities, it can be quite a challenge to stay on top of it all and excel at all the juggling.
Academically, the expectations to maintain a certain grade point average or grade in each course are high, and most student-athletes strive to reach these goals. The rigour and intensity of mastering course material within a crowded schedule while practicing for a demanding athletic program can take its toll, leaving many feeling overwhelmed.
Athletically, there are a plethora of activities to fill up their time. Training, team practices, one-on-ones with coaches, workouts at the gym, and the actual competition itself all demand their time and focus throughout the week.
Socially, there’s plenty of activity to keep them occupied. Keeping up with friends, maintaining relationships, managing extracurricular activities, and engaging in personal development activities often come at the cost of precious academic and athletic time. All of these demands together can often leave the student-athlete feeling worn out and pulled in different directions all at once!
The life of a student-athlete can indeed be a circus-like experience. It requires discipline, planning, and the ability to adapt and juggle the demands of all the areas of their lives. Whether they are hitting the books hard in the library, mastering a new skill on the sports field, or engaging with their peers, student-athletes must strive to keep their balance in the midst of the three-way circus of their lives!
2. Finding the Time to Excel at Work, School, and Training
It’s no surprise that when taking on any new endeavour, it’s important to make sure that you have the time and energy to be successful in it. Whether you’re starting a new job, enrolling in school, or investing in additional training, it’s critical that you carve out the time to excel in all of them. Here are some tips on finding the time to be the best you can be in each of these areas.
Be Diligent with Your Priorities:
The most successful people have the same advice when it comes to managing responsibilities: take time to prioritize what matters most and focus on those things. For example, if working, going to school, and training are all equally important goals, prioritize what needs to be done first and foremost and dedicate more time to it. Once you have the basics in check, allocate time to each of the other goals.
Take it Step by Step:
It can be easy to get overwhelmed when it comes to juggling multiple tasks, so one way to make sure you don’t get burned out is to take things one step at a time. Focus on the task in front of you and cross it off the list before moving on to the next. By taking it one step at a time, you can feel confident that you’ll be able to do your best in each area.
Make Flexibility a Priority:
Life will always happen, so it’s important to make sure that you are as flexible as possible when it comes to finding the time to excel. If something unexpected comes up, take a few minutes to reassess your commitments and adjust accordingly. Creating a flexible schedule allows you to make the most of your days and ensures that unexpected tasks don’t take up too much time.
Invest in Constructive Habits:
- Take breaks: Don’t forget to give yourself a break. Taking time off to relax and reflect can actually be beneficial, and can help you stay focused and productive.
- Reduce stress: Find ways to reduce stress and stay healthy. Whether it’s physical activity, meditation, or even just communicating with loved ones, make sure you have enough time to do things that make you feel good.
- Plan ahead: Be proactive and plan ahead. Make sure you have the time to complete all of your tasks and adjust if something comes up.
It’s not easy to juggle multiple commitments, but with the right approach, you can find the time to excel in all areas. By following these tips, you can make sure that you give yourself the best possible chance to succeed.
3. Training the Brain and Body to Enter Time Management Mode
To comfortably transition to a life with time management, you’ll need to apply a few mental and physical exercises. Good habits go a long way, so start with consistency.
Eliminating Distractions: Few tasks will benefit from having a snack bowl set next to you, or the latest movies playing while you work. Set a distraction-free environment by adjusting your desk, turning off digital and noise alerts, and closing all non-work related tabs.
Making a To-Do List: Schedule the tasks by priority, break down each task by smaller, more manageable subtasks, and establish deadlines. The ultimate goal is start your day with a manageable task list.
Create Positive Physical Habits: Start each day with a routine. Create a morning routine that will boost your energy and alertness. Prioritize physical activity, using the gym or a morning walk to jump start the day.
Set a Goal and Reward System:
- Celebrate small successes, such as finishing a chapter in the book or training for your online course.
- Set aside a day for yourself to rest, catch up with friends, or watch your favorite show.
- Look for opportunities to learn something new and make sure you’re inspired and energized.
Time management will always require a willingness to invest in it. To achieve, it’s important to embrace a balance between work and play. As you make changes, talk to friends and family, share your highs and lows, and make sure your loved ones show their support.
4. Conquering the Challenge for Future Success
Preparing for the future can be a daunting task. With the ever-changing landscape of career opportunities, it can be difficult to know what path to take. However, with a few steps, you can be better prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow and conquer them for future success.
Establish Your Goals
One of the most important steps to take is to establish your career goals. This requires assessing your skills, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, identifying your interests, and researching different career options. Ask yourself questions like, “What do I want to do?”, “How long do I want to spend in this field?” and “What qualifications do I need?” Use the answers to these questions to develop an overall plan for success.
Build Your Network
Networking is a great way to get your foot in the door. Start by connecting with people in the field you want to pursue. Join professional organizations, attend job fairs and take the time to talk to professionals in the industry you want to enter. Take advantage of social media and other technology to connect with people who may be able to help you launch your career.
Learn From Mistakes
Perhaps one of the most important steps in achieving success is learning from your mistakes. Take the time to evaluate any setbacks so that you can build on your experiences and minimize the risks for future success. Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback and advice, and use it to continuously improve and grow.
Take Action
Finally, success doesn’t come unless you take action. Once you’ve created a plan, it’s time to take the necessary steps to turn it into a reality. Participate in internships and entry-level positions, possess the necessary qualifications, and commit to the job you want, no matter the challenges you face.
Navigating a demanding normal doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right time management tools, student-athletes can continue to work toward their athletic and educational goals. Making time for each facet of the student-athlete’s life—including time for themselves—can help lead to future success. After all, with the right mindset and the right goals, anything is achievable.
