So many decisions to make, so much to do, deadlines all around: schoolwork, extracurricular activities, sports, internships… So much to accomplish, but you don’t know how to fit it all in. How can you manage your time for maximum success?

We’ve got three simple secrets to get you on the right track.

#1: Work smarter, not necessarily harder – take time out to plan and organize

At Blue Stars we don’t tell students to “just work harder!” That won’t help. Figuring out how to maximize your study time will.

It can take a leap of faith to carve out time to plan and get organized. But this is a HUGE factor in students’ success, both in school and for the rest of their lives.

#2: Use the right tools

Where do you start? Let’s face it — sometimes it can be stressful just figuring out HOW to make yourself less stressed.

Blue Stars really feels for students, given all the expectations placed on them. We’ve devoted a lot of time to helping students stay organized and manage all the demands on their time.

Below are some of our favorite Time Management Tools. We use these every day! Read through the guide, pick your favorites, and try them out. Before you know it, you’ll have a much better productive flow.

#3: Create a support system

Staying on track can be rough for all of us, even with the right tools.

That’s why a great support system is important — people with experience to help you stay on track, set the right priorities, and solve tough time-management problems.

Get an “accountability partner” in your corner — a parent, adult mentor, experienced Blue Stars counselor — and set up regular times to meet. We suggest once or twice each month.

The key is to create accountability — get someone to help you come up with a plan to keep you calm, focused and confident.

Suggested Steps for Success

  • Read our Time Management Tools below
  • Pick 2 favorites
  • Week 1: use one tool all week. Set a phone alarm to remind you
  • Week 2: add a second tool
  • Set up “Check-in Meetings” with an experienced adult to help you stay on track

If you decide you might like the support of an expert college counselor, Blue Stars will be happy to give you a free in-depth assessment.

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