Time and money are a lot alike. After all, both can be spent, invested, and even squandered. But while you can always earn more money, you can never earn more time. Spend wisely using our 12 Days of Time Management for Teens:
Create a Routine
Who knew that circadian rhythms were so powerful? Most people understand how our natural rhythms control our sleep cycles, determining not just when we awaken each day but also when we feel most alert and productive. But circadian rhythms also exert influence on our biological functions, behavior, and even mood.
Unfortunately for teens, the change in circadian rhythms triggered by puberty knocks them out of sync with most high schools: school starts really early but teens want to stay up really late. See the problem?
If you’re committed to making the most of your time, you must create a routine and stick to it. Doing so can actually alter your biological rhythms, increasing your productivity and rendering you fit for adult society. Consider these strategies:
- Always go to sleep within the same two-hour window
- Always wake up within the same two-hour window
- Eliminate electronics at least one hour before bedtime
- Nap for less than 30 minutes at a time
- Avoid caffeine, stimulants, and sleeping pills
If you want to control the world, control your body first. Create a routine and stick to it!
The 12 Days of Time Management for Teens is inspired by and draws liberally from Etienne Garbugli’s excellent Slideshare presentation, 26 Time Management Hacks I Wish I’d Known at 20. Obviously, we think this advice is valuable even for students younger than 20!
Mike Bergin