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4 Tips for Staying Productive During the Exchange

written by
Natasha Machado
11/4/2024
Read in
5 min
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The exchange is an exciting time, but it can also be quite busy. Between classes, extracurricular activities, tours, and adjusting to a new culture, it can be difficult to find free time. Read on to discover some time management tips that will help you keep stress low and productivity high during your exchange with Be Easy.

Make a to-do list

Creating a list with all your tasks is the first important step in discovering how to manage a busy schedule during your exchange, whether for Learn language abroad or study at a University abroad. To keep a clear track of what you need to focus on each day, week, or month, write down everything you need to do using:

  • A physical schedule
  • A dedicated notebook
  • The notes app on your cell phone
  • Digital productivity tools, such as Trello or Notion

Each time you complete a task, cross it off the list and watch it decrease as you achieve your goals. Seeing all the things you've ever accomplished will keep you motivated, and you'll feel a fantastic sense of accomplishment when your entire list is complete.

Set attainable goals

While keeping track of all your tasks can be useful for time management, it can also be overwhelming. To keep up with your tasks without feeling stressed, follow these tips:

  1. Break each task into smaller, more manageable parts
  2. Set realistic deadlines for each stage
  3. Prioritize the most important or urgent tasks
  4. Celebrate every goal achieved, no matter how small

For example, instead of trying to do an entire project in one evening, break it down into steps like brainstorming, researching, writing, reviewing, and editing. So it will be easier to deal with each part of the project instead of trying to do everything at once.

Plan ahead

Each week, take time to review your upcoming deadlines and appointments. Put everything on a planner or calendar on your cell phone, so you have everything in one place. Plan your study routine based on the time you will have available during the week, considering:

  • College classes and work
  • Extracurricular activities and social commitments
  • Travel time and other obligations
  • Moments of rest and leisure

If you know that you will be busy with volunteer work on Wednesday afternoon, plan to start studying for the history test a little earlier. That way, you won't be caught awake in the middle of the night studying for an exam.

Take care of yourself

Even if it's just for a few minutes a day, be sure to set aside time each day to take care of yourself. Some ideas include:

  • Take a walk in the fresh air
  • Take a break to meditate or practice yoga between jobs
  • Reading a book for pleasure
  • Talk to friends and family
  • Take up a hobby that you enjoy

Prioritizing self-care will ensure that you remain attentive to your well-being, even during the busiest times. Don't forget to sleep too! You'll be more productive when your mental, emotional, and physical health is getting the attention they deserve.

Be easy

Understanding and practicing time management during the exchange is one of the most beneficial skills students can learn. By discovering how to balance studies, sports, activities, social commitments, and self-care, students prepare for success both at university and in their future careers.

Na Be easy, we are committed to offering all the necessary support so that you can make the most of your experience abroad. Our programs are carefully designed to provide a complete immersion in the culture of the chosen country. Contact Be easy today and discover how we can help you develop time-management skills that will be useful for a lifetime!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy