Sep 5, 2024 4 min read

Q: I started reading your column in 8th grade because my dad made me read it, but for a while I’ve been reading it because I enjoy it. I like the way you listen to teens. I read your column where you supported an anxious college freshman. Your advice was excellent. I thought I’d write to you to share that I’m on my third week at my first-choice college, and I couldn’t be happier.

I love my campus — iit’s beautiful, and I go for walks around it just to look at the buildings. There are so many social activities, both in my dorm and on campus. I am busy, but it’s a good busy. I’ve made some good friends. My classes intrigue me. I don’t declare a major until next year, but I’m thinking very seriously about becoming a teacher, so I’m taking a child development course and an early education course. So far, and I know it’s early, I really like my professors and the textbooks. I Facetime with my family often and I don’t really feel homesick.

Before you think I’m writing only to give you good news, I do have a request. Any suggestions for time management? I think it will be easy for me to get overwhelmed. Saying no to social experiences and fun so I can prioritize studying is logical, but I don’t know if I have the willpower to do it. Any hints? Thanks again. — 18-year-old

Mary Jo’s Response: Thank you for your kind and generous words. Listening to young people is a huge part of teaching, and I love teaching. I’m thrilled you love your college and pleased with your positive transition to your new adventure.

Time management is an important skill, not only for young adults but for everyone.

Here are a few hints:

1. Set goals. It’s important to set short-term goals (a week or two) and long-term goals (six months or a year). Write them down. Studies show the act of writing a goal allows your brain to reflect upon it. Reflection leads to action.

2. Create a schedule. In high school, your schedules were typically provided for you. Now you’re on your own. Select a calendar type and review your schedule daily. Look ahead at due dates for assignments and mark them on your calendar. Plan space for emergencies or illness.

3. Set reminders. These could be to-do lists or even alarms on your computer or phone.

4. Identify timewasters. Social media sites can draw a person into a rabbit hole where hours can pass as one post or video after another is viewed. Set a time limit for social media. Moderation rules. Real life is more compelling.

5. Find support. I recommend study groups for challenging classes. Once again, research shows us humans are social creatures (that’s why the aforementioned social media can take away our time!). Social learning educational theory teaches that we reinforce our learning when we do it in groups. Friends can also help keep us on task or encourage procrastination. Select friends wisely.

6. Focus. I know many people your age multi-task but examine your distractions. Do they make it harder for you to complete work?

7. Plan for fun. Take time for self-care — music, the walks you mentioned, lunch with friends, sports, art — these things support our efforts. We are mind-body-spirit, and balance brings joy.

8. Be flexible. Healthy time management isn’t rigid but adapts to your life.

Good luck!

Have a question? Send it to Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski’s email podmj@healthyteens.com.