NW seminar talks about managing stress, busy life

By Andrew Smith/reporter

A routine designed around success is vital in handling a busy lifestyle, an English associate professor explained to NW students at the Innovation Forum Jan. 26.

Quality enhancement plan coordinator Angela Chilton inspired individuals to think critically in evaluating their time management in her Balancing Life and School presentation.

Chilton’s discussion included a college action plan outlining steps toward academic success. Though the struggle of balancing courses, jobs and personal responsibilities is common to most TCC students, she hopes that these programs will provide students equality between their professional areas as well as their personal goals.

“Cut out the feeling like you’re constantly running in circles and give yourself a sense of control,” she said.

By reflecting on what works and what does not work, students can create a life plan that best suits their schedules.

“Remember the amount of classes you started with and now compare that with how many classes you have left,” she said.

Breaking down the long-term into a set of short-term goals are good starting points, Chilton said, but the key is planning ahead. Students should adapt to a daily routine that accounts for free time to be distributed between deadlines and important tasks.

“Lessen the stress,” she said. “Be mindful of your everyday choices and find things that can change.”