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The College Entrepreneur's Guide to Time Management

Almost every college student could use more money--for either school or pleasure--and with this desire, most would like to begin some sort of project to add a supplementary income. The problem is that not many of these aspiring college entrepreneurs seem to be able to add a "second job" into their schedule.

It is true--everyone is busy, but the extra time required for an income-generating project can almost always be made (note I said MADE, not FOUND!). It means the abandonment of some of your choice hobbies--maybe having a couple of beers with the guys or watching TV--but if you score big additional income with your new project you'll be in a much better position to enjoy a night out (and you'll be able to buy the first round!).

Efficient time management boils down to planning what you are going to do, doing it, and then evaluating how well you did. Start by making a list of three important things you want to do the next day each evening before going to bed. Next, jot down the smaller, "less important" things--plan your trips to the grocery store or when to clean your room. Finally, add in "personal time" to the list--time that you will spend doing absolutely nothing, reading a book, playing video games, dating, etc.

Whatever school tasks you have, set aside time to do them and a specific amount of time to devote to them. For instance, one or two hours a day devoted to studying will most likely help your grades considerably (honestly, how much do you study RIGHT NOW?). Keep up with this for a number of days, and you'll be amazed at your progress.

Take care of all messages (emails, phone calls, etc.) the same day you receive them. Do not let bills and letters pile up on you! If you are unable to pay a bill immediately, file it in a place that is visible and note on the envelope the date you intend to pay.

Once you start listing and planning what to do, and then follow through with your plans, you'll find a lot of "extra time" for handling virtually any type of entrepreneurship project. College students tend to not generally like routines or schedules, but without some sort of plan for what is supposed to be done, your world will be mired in mass confusion. The better you can organize yourself, the more productive and happier you will become.

The secret of financial success for most wealthy people is simply that they are organized and do not waste time (For example see the success story of  Deslauriers Twins Toronto). Think about it. Review your own list of where your time is being spent, and then see if you can not find a couple hours of "leftover" time every day for more constructive goals.

When you start planning your time, plan ON PAPER what you have to do. Many people will find that by writing down their goals, they are able to follow through with them more effectively. Writing down and following a schedule of tasks will also help to prevent procrastination and "down time." Remember, if you've planned out your "personal time" throughout your day, you won't need to procrastinate before or after certain activities.

Remember that everyone has the exact same amount of time each day--it's just a matter of how we spend it! Time management is a skill and a study in personal development, so start slowly and work up to a level of efficiency that will provide you with ample time for school, business, and relaxation.