Twelfth Thing: Time Management

In 1997, I started a degree here at the University of Melbourne. Despite excelling in school, like many others, I struggled with the transition to university demands; specifically, managing my time and tasks. My experience shifted by 2014 when I pursued graduate study after many years of teaching. Although there were challenges, teaching helped me develop organisation, thoroughness and time management but it would have been a lot easier if I had taken the time to learn and hone time management skills as a university student.

Time management is one of those skills that nobody explicitly teaches us but is fundamental to success. While advice urges us to plan, start early and avoid procrastination, the practical ‘how’ is often omitted. Graduate researchers will realise that their programs lack the structure found in undergraduate study. With fewer classes and deadlines and less feedback, self-direction becomes pivotal because there is the incessant pressure of having to research, write and defend your thesis in all that undirected time. However, try to see this as a blessing rather than a curse. You get to decide when and how to spend your time, what you’ll read or study, and when you’ll do it. With some practical tips and a pragmatic approach, it’s not that difficult to take control of your success.