Written and Media by Mary Todd Christian
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The school year is officially in full swing! After Greenville College’s first week of classes, many students are still adjusting to their daily routines. As a person who thrives off of schedules, I am thankful for the consistency of the school schedule. The predictability of the day helps me to stay on task, and keeps me from being surprised. When I have to adjust my schedule, rearrange my day, or even disregard my routine all together, I am not a happy camper.
Maybe I am a little high maintenance when it comes to having a set routine, but I honestly can’t live without one. Here are a few reasons why you shouldn’t either!
1. Time Management
The biggest component of my routine revolves around managing my time. Thankfully, my class schedule is a major help and influencer in helping me keep track of time. Whether I am balancing 17 credits or 14, having a set routine and understanding of my daily timetable gives me motivation to complete assignments, and be aware of what I have coming up in the next hour, day, or week.
2. Organization
Keeping a constant routine helps me stay organized. It forces me to maintain my dorm room by keeping it tidy, as well as keeping my assignments in order. Furthermore, it assists my memory by staying on track, and helps me remember what is coming up. (Living by my trusty planner helps too.)
3. Prevents Laziness
My grandfather always used to say, “Laziness will hurt you!” And he was right. When I am unable to keep a routine, I can easily struggle with having too much idle time. Though having nothing to do (or just not doing anything) is nice for a while, it can become dangerous. I can easily become unmotivated to do anything after an extended period of time. Even the Proverbs speak of how laziness and idle time can be detrimental to one’s spirit. Proverbs 10:4, 13:4, 18:9 are just a few to name.
4. Prevents Depression
Tacking onto the concept of idle time, the lack of a structured routine can even lead to depression. Speaking from experience, it was extremely difficult for me to find a routine, and manage my time this past summer. On the days I didn’t go into work, it was so easy to sit at home, and do absolutely nothing for hours upon hours. After a while, I began to feel a significant drop in my mood. Many days, it was almost painful to get out of bed. On the days I actually had an activity planned, I was discontent, irritable, and embarrassed from having done absolutely nothing for so long. Making small, daily goals for myself slowly drew me out of this slump.
5. Accomplishment
On a lighter note, having a routine can produce a sense of accomplishment. At the end of the day, I can look back and feel good about what I was able to achieve, even if I didn’t get everything done. Just sticking to my schedule and not allowing myself to become worried or stressed is a huge victory for me.
There can definitely be a negative side to having too much structure, but when there is a good balance between work and play, a routine can be beneficial to anyone. With the school year just beginning, I encourage everyone to create a structured routine, whatever it may look like for you. My hope is that your routine won’t control your life, but will help you lead a happier and healthier school year!
