With a million and one things going on at the same time – everything from lectures to course papers to extracurricular events like coffee and beer “meetings” – it’s easy to lose sight of what’s going on, what you need to accomplish, and when.

When you organise yourself at university, you can reduce stress and give yourself more time to focus on your studies.

We all know that student housing isn’t known for being particularly roomy, so it could be worth considering a student storage company for some of your items that aren’t needed daily.

Many people lack organisational abilities, so maybe this post will provide you with some tips on how to be more organised while at university.

Being organised is simple to learn if you put a few small things in place, and it will save you a lot of stress, time, and money if you keep track of everything.

Save yourself some stress by following these simple student organisation tips:

 

#1 Use a diary

Keeping a diary may sound a little old-fashioned.  Of course, we’re not talking about a Bridget Jones or Adrian Mole-type diary, but carrying and using a paper diary (or even one built into your phone) is vital for staying organised.

Choose one that is small enough that you won’t mind carrying it around in your rucksack but large enough that you can create a to-do list if necessary. 

Learning how to use a diary effectively will significantly reduce your stress levels.  Nothing will catch you off guard and make you panic if you check your diary daily and whip it out to write a note whenever you have a new commitment.

 

#2 Make to-do lists

Much like a diary, making to-do lists is essential to be organised.

The nicest part of making a “to-do” list is the sense of accomplishment you get from crossing things off.  Even a day in bed with your laptop might make you feel like you’ve had the most productive day, even if you complete all your tasks.

If you have much work piling up, spread them out over a few days’ lists.  This way, you can take comfort in knowing that if you manage even a little portion of what you need to do each day, you’ll still be on pace to do it all on time if you stick to your daily lists.

If you don’t do everything on your list for the day, move any incomplete tasks to the next.

 

#3 Get enough sleep

You’ll never feel as if you’re on top of the situation if you only get a few hours of sleep.  Sleep experts recommend getting approximately eight hours of sleep per night, and you’ll be surprised how more in control you’ll feel if you’re well-rested and alert.

When you’re tired, you’re more likely to miss appointments or lessons and lack the motivation to complete those to-do lists.

 

#4 Get some student storage

A student storage company is a bit like a self-storage company but on a much smaller scale.  Instead of renting out an entire container each month, a student storage unit allows you to store single boxes of items at a cost-effective price.

Some of the better student storage companies offer a pick-up and delivery service where they collect your boxes and then deliver them back to you when you need them.

 

#5 Add the word “NO” to your vocabulary

The British are notoriously poor at saying ‘no,’ yet not having the courage to turn someone down if you don’t have enough time or energy for it could impact your studies and overall stress levels.

If you’re struggling with a deadline and a classmate approaches you for assistance, it’s okay to say no.  But don’t feel obligated – that’s what tutors are there for.

 

#6 Utilise the Space you Have

Using the space, you already have a great way to become more organised and can free up a lot of space you currently use for storing your belongings. 

Use the space under your bed to store larger, bulkier items and invest in some storage solutions that hang on the backs of doors or inside cupboards.  These are generally relatively inexpensive and can be a lifesaver when storing shoes, toiletries, and other essential items.

Vacuum packing larger items such as winter clothes, spare duvets, etc., is a brilliant way to “shrink wrap” your belongings, so they take up less room.

 

#7 Prepare meals in advance

Cooking in bulk and prepping all of your food ahead of time is a terrific way to save both time and money.

Not having to think about what you’re going to eat every day will ease the burden of looking for the cheapest options, and you’ll be able to devote more time to the critical tasks that need to be completed.

Find a few quick dishes that you can create and stick to your list.  This will save you a lot of money and take the worry out of navigating crowded supermarkets, which can be avoided completely by doing your grocery shopping online.

 

#8 Learn how to Relax

Finally, realising that panicking and getting into a flap when you’ve got too much to do really won’t solve anything.

Don’t panic!

Take a few deep breaths and begin tackling one item at a time – begin at the top of one of those lists you made and work your way down.

You will be back on track in no time!