College Life

Tips to College Success—Part 2

img_0133In continuation of my Tips to College Success, here is Part 2. We've already covered Scheduling; now it's time for another essential element to college success:

#2: Sleep. Contrary to some popular opinion, sleep is important! I’ve heard many people say that sleep was a “necessary evil,” and although that may be so, it is also very beneficial. I mean, really, if God didn’t want us to sleep, we wouldn’t have to do it! If you are planning to attend college one day and are thinking, “I won’t be able to make it. I literally cannot function without sleep,” or if you are a current student suffering from lack of sleep...

I have good news for you! One of the blessings of time managing is being able to fit in all of your priorities. We also have a very good habit of making time for the things we think are important. Therefore, sleep does have a place in college.

So… how do you make time for sleep in college?

1. Make good use of your day time so it doesn't run into sleep time. This is where the scheduling really pays off. One way to do it is to get up a little earlier so that you can avoid late nights.

2. Sleep on the weekend, but don’t hibernate. Sleeping too much will make you groggy and unproductive the rest of the next day. What's worse, sometimes over-sleeping prevents you from going to bed on time that night, which starts the bad habit of staying up late then sleeping in, then staying up late, and so on.

3. Find your sleep “sweet spot.” Did you know that there is a window of time for restful sleep? Going below or above that time makes you feel even worse than you did before. There are so many resources and apps you can check out that discuss more about sleep cycles.

Now, I know that there are some students that are very busy. These are the guys that work 20 hours a week, take a full credit load, and still find time for extracurricular activities, one of which is not sleep. You're probably already thinking, "I time manage enough, but there are only 24 hours in the day." Try to remember that although sleep takes time, it really does allow your waking hours to be more productive. Instead of dragging all day because you've had no sleep, try getting a night's rest. Your whole body and attitude will feel so much more motivated to tackle your responsibilities with zeal.

The main thing to keep in mind is that it is possible for college and sleep to co-exist at school. Sure, during midterms or finals, things may get out of balance; but for an everyday schedule, implement some practical tips in your schedule to make time for sleep.

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The thoughts and opinions expressed in Life in the Nest are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Pensacola Christian College.
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