Get organised 

To decrease the chances of getting stressed throughout the year, organisation is key. Planning your weekly and monthly goals is the first vital step, keeping your mind focused on what’s important. You are settling into a new lifestyle and rhythm so there will be lots to sort out – personally and academically. To help, I’m going to list two of my favourite tips for organisation.

Invest in a diary

The first major piece of advice I can give is invest in a diary. You may be thinking, ‘I use a diary for a week and then forget about it’, but not for much longer! You need to pick one that you like and work out the things that you need in your diary. Space for events? Space for to-dos? A day a page diary? When you find a diary that serves you in all the areas you need, you are more inclined to keep in top of it and soon, you won’t be able to do without it. 

As soon as you get your diary, go through your emails. You will find, particularly at the beginning of the new academic year, there’s an influx of emails about different events, university talks, information on IT, and other general information about activities, applications, socials with new people, tasks, unpacking, forms to fill out and many, many more.

Make sure to jot down anything that is important or of interest to you in your diary. This means you can’t double book your precious time and helps you balance it throughout the year. 

Use a to-do list

If you decided to get a diary with a built-in to-do list then you’re a step ahead, but if it doesn’t, not to worry. You can also find a notebook or some blank pages you have in your room, however make sure it’s something you won’t lose.

What I like to do is to divide my tasks into groups. For example, I have a group for 5 minute tasks, usually being admin tasks and organising my computer folders and documents. I then have a group for non-negotiables which are at the top of my priority list for the day and then I have a task for remaining tasks which is where I put my tasks that aren’t urgent, but I can do if I have extra time.

This may too much of a detailed process or perhaps too time consuming for you, so in that case a simple to do list will suffice! Either way, lists help’s you meet your deadlines, keep on top of tasks and keeps your productivity at an all-time high.

Preventing procrastination 

Procrastination is a student’s worst nightmare. Often it happens when you’re dreading a certain task and spending valuable time doing other things that aren’t helpful in completing the task, such as online shopping (guilty!).

Something I do to motivate myself when I am putting a task off, is to write a study plan and break the tasks up into 15-minute bouts (time depending on the size of the task). This way I find it easier to focus for that set amount of time and then take a break. When doing heavy tasks, breaks are key in keeping your productivity up and helping you complete the task. This will make you feel in control and helps to manage stress.

De-stress: Ring family or someone who brings you comfort

When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I take a step back and take a break and give a friend or family member a ring. Not only does this help to calm your stress but also helps to prevent you from feeling so tense. Studies suggest that socialising with a friend just once a week can reduce your stress levels and improve your mood as much as therapy or counselling. A little laugh with your loved ones is sometimes all you need!

Create a routine

Yes, I know, you’re a student, it’s inevitable that you have some kind of routine. However, I’m not just talking about attending class on the days and times you are supposed to, it’s also things like sleep and exercise routines that play a big a factor in decreasing stress.

Firstly, ensure you get 3 balanced meals a day, this helps to provide extra energy needed to cope with stressful events. Another very important step is to get enough sleep. Remember to get a walk a day in, or a trip to the gym, being physically active is essential for de-stressing. Exercise releases endorphins, it makes us feel good, and makes us feel a great sense of accomplishment.

Create balance

Ever heard of the saying ‘balance is key’? Well, it couldn’t be more accurate, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is so important for both organisation and productivity. When you take too much on, it can contribute to higher stress levels and cause you to burn out.

Make sure you are leaving time for socialising or even a part-time job. Take a look at the many amazing societies at Queen’s – they’re a great way to take a break from studies, socialise and build experience! Having balance means you can continue to excel in you course whilst having breaks and having some you time.

Resources to help: Queen’s Students’ union 

You may have seen, or already popped into the new union building at One Elmwood Student Centre and Students’ Union. It has everything from spaces for work, conference rooms and a buzzing bar. The student’s union is a great place to meet friends and to socialise. If you’re trying to create a balance between university work and socialising, at the Students’ Union, you can do both!

Struggling to Settle In? Get Support

Queen’s University has an amazing Well-being Service. Filled with staff who will prioritise you. They can help you with a range of things from homesickness, financial advice to mental health support. They'll provide a listening ear and can signpost you to specialist services who can offer specific support if needed.

At the student well-being service there is a daily drop-in time from Monday to Friday at 11AM to 3PM. You can find them on Level 1, One Elmwood Student Centre and Students’ Union or alternatively give them a call on 0738754612. 

Find out more

One Elmwood Student Centre and Students’ Union

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Niamh McMullan Broadcast Production and Media | Postgraduate Student | Rasharkin, NI Hi I'm Niamh, I'm from a small village called Rasharkin in Co. Antrim and I am 21. I am currently in the midst of completing my Masters degree in Broadcast production and media! I am an avid feature writer for Local Women NI and work in social media and videography part time! As a member of Queen's Radio, I created my own podcast on Spotify called the Mental Health scoop back in 2019 which focuses on mental health, wellness, and positivity! I'm a fanatic of everything related to writing, presenting and mental health!