How Making Lists Is Changing My Semester

Let me be the first to admit it: this semester just started and I’m already STRESSED. For most of us, stress is a regular part of being a college student. After graduation, our college stress turns into adulting stress. A little stress can motivate and push you toward your goals. Some people work best when they’re under a little pressure. But nobody likes to be too stressed. 

One stress-reducing practice I’ve taken up this semester is the art of list making. I started making list of tasks that I need to complete. Yes, it’s that simple. I may make a list of things I need to accomplish throughout the day, a list of things to do before my study session ends, or a list of tasks I need to complete before I can settle into bed and with a glass of wine. There’s nothing special about my lists, but they’ve been doing wonders for my focus and sense of accomplishment. Here are a few reasons why lists are working for me, and why they may work for you too:

1. Lists help you stay organized. 

When you have a million things to get done today, it’s easy for one or two (or ten) tasks to get lost in the shuffle. Making a list can help ensure you complete all your tasks without leaving anything out. 

2. There’s something super satisfying about crossing something off a list. 

Whether you draw a line through it, write an “X”, or use a check mark, there’s something very satisfying about marking a task off your to-do list. It gives you a sense of accomplishment that you can see, which you wouldn’t get otherwise. Whenever I finish a task, I get a sense of pride, even if it was something simple like folding the laundry or calling my mom. 

3. A list a day keeps the stress away. 

Let’s be honest, we’re all bound to be stressed from time to time. Making a list can help reduce that stress! Seeing each thing you have to do written out on paper helps stop your brain from freaking out and causing more stress. You may suddenly realize that the three hundred things you thought needed to get done is actually only twelve things. In addition to the work-related things, I also put fun tasks on my lists. This is a great way to break up all the work and make sure you have time for self-care. 

With organization tips like these, you’re sure to have this semester in the bag! Once you finish your goals, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and triumph, almost like finishing a book or beating that hard level on Candy Crush. 

Do you make lists? Have any other organization tips to share? Comment down below or tweet us at @hcvaldosta! HCXO <3

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