Greek Life Time Management

Being a part of a Greek organization involves a lot of time and energy on top of all the other activities you are likely a part of as a college student. You are probably wondering if it’s even possible to have a social life, maintain a solid GPA, get involved with other extra-curricular activities, and try to stay active as a leader with your chapter all at the same time. The answer to this question is yes — it is possible to do all these things! It just takes some excellent time management to succeed. Here are some tips that might help you manage your time while still enjoying your fraternal organization.

1. Keep a calendar

Keeping a calendar might be one of the most important elements of time management. When you join a Greek organization, you are committing yourself to a very busy three or four years ahead. The more details you provide on a calendar, the more likely you are to understand what you have time for, and what you don’t. And of course, it keeps you from forgetting appointments and events, many of which you won’t want to miss out on!

2. Prioritize your day

Making a daily schedule for yourself is the best way to keep up with your tasks. A to-do list is a great way to maintain that schedule, and many find it enjoyable to cross important items off the list. Even scheduling items like lunch, social time and personal hygiene can help you remember to relax every now and then.

3. Avoid procrastination

Waiting until the last minute to do homework or prepare for a big meeting can drain your time. Not only that, but it also leaves you completely stressed and overwhelmed. So, make sure to plan ahead and avoid pulling an all-nighter for that test the next day or waiting until the 11th hour to buy snacks for your recruitment event.

4. Schedule time to exercise

Staying fit directly relates to time management. This is because exercise gives you the energy you need to keep going. If you don’t exercise, you are likely to feel lethargic and unmotivated. Therefore, exercising will help you stay on schedule, so make sure to include it as a part of your weekly routine. And remember, many Greek organizations get involved with intramurals. This might be a fun way for you to stay active while being social at the same time.

5. Stay organized

Not only is it important to keep a daily schedule and a calendar, but it is also important to keep your space organized. Try to keep your desk clean at all times, and try to do your work at your desk whenever possible. Yes, studying in bed or at a coffee shop is fun every now and then, but having a consistent and clean work area will maximize your time and allow you the space to do other things. While it is essential that your desk stay clean, it is also important to keep your room in good order.

6. Set goals for yourself

Making long-term and short-term goals for yourself as well as writing them down helps you stay centered on the tasks and achievements that are most important to you. Check back on those goals occasionally to see how you are doing and readjust those goals if necessary. In addition, try having one of your sorority sisters or fraternity brothers hold you accountable to your goals.

7. Learn how to say no

Chances are if you are in a Greek organization, you are also involved in other things. When people start to realize that you are able to juggle multiple activities at once and are good at it, they will nominate you for other things. It is important to remember that it is OK to say no when you feel that you can’t do everything people ask you to do. This will keep you from getting too stressed or burning out. This is also a good lesson to learn to prepare you for life after college.