Latoya Campbell, Gleaner Writer
"Free paper bun!" are the first words that come to mind at this time of the year. It's hard to believe that, for many, it will soon be the end of summer.
Gone will be the luxury of waking late and lazing around all day without a care in the world. While many will be excited to get back to their 'old school routine', others will patiently wait for the next summer holiday.
Inevitably, the streets will be even more congested as students make their way to and from school. Even more congested for many will be the areas where most schoolwork is done, for instance, bedrooms or study rooms. I don't know about you, but one of the main challenges I have is utilising my space.
For some reason, things are never where I expect them to be, which poses a major problem. Often, my designated study period is spent searching for the items I need. When I eventually find them, I've suddenly lost the interest to study, and procrastinate until it's almost too late.
With that in mind, Outlook Youth compiled a few cool ideas that will not only help you keep your things in order, but create a unique taste for your room or study area.
These are some other ideas which are ideal for keeping order:
File a pile
Don't throw out the grocery boxes you just helped your mother to unpack, put them to some good use. Purchase file folders and have fun decorating them to suit your taste. Make one folder for each category that you need to file, and label them appropriately. Decorate the box then use it as a storage container.This is ideal for storing notes for various subjects so that they will be easily accessible when you need them.
Store in more
Neaten up your desk containing the mess. Don't leave items such as pens and pencils loose. Store them in attractive canisters and cups to keep your desk looking neat and tidy.
When the jam is finished you don't have to throw the bottle out. Reuse it!
Gather ribbons, stickers whatever it takes to suit your style, and design accordingly.
By doing this you can free up the space on your desk, so that you'll have more space to do your work.
Another major challenge that we are often faced with is utilising time well. The expression 'time flies' is quite true, especially when you wish that there could be more hours in the day.
Finally, one should understand the importance of balance. While academic affairs must be the highest priority, extra-curricular activities are also important. Not only do they make you well rounded, but also you'll be involved in activities which will be helpful at times when school stress is overwhelming.
Outlook Youth wishes all students a prosperous year. Though the challenges will be great, don't lose sight of your objectives.
Getting organised
"I listen to my conscience. I love going to parties, but when I realise that time is catching up on me, where assignments are concerned, my conscience starts to bother me until I make the special effort to complete the assignment before the due date, even if it means missing a session." Rochelle, 20."I usually set up a timetable. That way, it's harder to get sidetracked as I'll always have an idea of what I should be doing at designated times." Felicia, 21."Usually, my friends play a great part in helping me. They remind me about assignments and encourage me at times when I don't feel like doing anything. Otherwise, I have to write myself memos in order to remember the other things that are of lesser importance." KeVaughn, 19.