“The key is in not spending time, but in investing it.”
-Stephen R. Covey
Being a teenager in high school is a time of transition. For the first time in their lives kids get a taste of what it really means to be an adult by having to juggle their school work, part time jobs, and budding social life. Many teens who go to an accredited online high school like the flexibility their online schooling gives them, but you can’t enjoy your flexible schedule and free time if you don’t know how to utilize them. If you’re having trouble finding time for school, work, and your friends, follow these time management tips so you can have a full and manageable schedule.
Utilize the Calendar App on Your Phone
Almost every modern teenager has a tool that can help them manage their time. Your phone can do a lot more than text and browse online. Most come with a calendar application that can help you stay on top of your school work if you use it correctly. If you want to get the most out of your phone you shouldn’t just make reminders for the day exams are held and projects are due. Make a reminder event a week in advance so you can take more time to study and work on your projects and homework.
Go Beyond the Daily To-Do List
Almost every person you ask for time management advice will tell you to make a to-do list so you can keep track of everything you need to do for the day. To-do lists are an excellent way to stay organized, but if you want to stay on schedule and organized you should take your to-do list a step further. Instead of only coming up with daily to-do lists sit down and make a to-do list for the upcoming weeks and the month. These to-do lists will give you a very good idea of what you need to focus your time and energy on, and having a clear plan and timeline for your goals makes them easier to achieve.
Don’t Be Afraid to Say “No”
At this age it feels like it’s impossible to say no someone, but you actually do have a choice in what activities you do. If your friend invites you out the night before your big paper is due, it’s okay to turn them down. It’s also okay to let your parents know if you’re too busy with school work or other obligations to do some, or let your teacher know that the time they suggested for a review conflicts with your work schedule. If you speak up and are honest about your schedule and your needs, you can find that your friends, family, and teachers can be flexible enough to accommodate your needs.