7 Tips To Get Organized This September

The first month back at Ryerson can be both exciting and overwhelming. Here are some tips to get organized this September. By Maxine Kozak, Storyteller for RU Student Life.

1. Get an early start.

If you start early, you don't have to finish it all at once. The best ideas usually come with time. If you start something and come back to it with a fresh perspective, you'll probably be more successful.

2. Schedule your time like you would schedule a meeting.

This may sound a little excessive, however, you don't have to stick to a rigid schedule. If you plan a rough idea of when you might have time to tackle certain tasks, you can focus on what you are doing in the present moment with the knowledge that you have a plan to get everything done on time.

3. Plan your meals.

Write a grocery list and if you're feeling especially productive, engage in weekly meal prep. If you make large portion sizes on the weekend, you can have meals ready-to-go all week, saving yourself some time, money, and stress.

4. Make a budget.

Going to school in Toronto isn't cheap, especially if you're also living downtown. To avoid the stress that inevitably comes halfway through the year as your OSAP funds dwindle into nothing, have an idea of how much money you can realistically afford to spend each month and spend accordingly. Need more budgeting tips - try here.

5. Write things down.

Don't rely on your memory this year because we all know it cannot be trusted. Write down the important stuff or if you prefer, just make a note on your phone. You always have your phone in your hand anyway, you might as well use it to stay organized.

6. Get your friends on board.

If you commit yourselves to similar goals, you are more accountable to those goals and it becomes easier to stay motivated. Plan study dates or go grocery shopping together. This can make things that typically seem dull a little bit more fun.

7. Treat yourself.

It's always easier to stay motivated if you have something to look forward to. Rewards are a necessity.