So, you decided to go back to school and finish your high school diploma. Wonderful! But, maybe since then the excitement has worn off and online high school has become a challenge again. If you’re like most of us, you have a lot of things that fight for your attention. They could be jobs, significant others or family demands.

When you have a lot going on, it can be hard to set aside time to do school. If this is the case and you’re worried about failing at school because you can’t find enough time for school work, then read this! Here we share some reasons to create a regular routine that incorporates study time into your weekly schedule.

#1 It makes better use of your time

A schedule gives you the power to take control of your time. It forces you to be more aware of how you are spending your time. This awareness of time will prompt you to use your time more efficiently.

Making a schedule is similar to making a budget. You need to think about how much time you have, things you must spend time on, versus what you want to spend time on. You must remember critical things like sleep, schoolwork, eating healthy, and exercise.

When you use your time better, you will accomplish more of your goals.

To easily create a schedule, use Google Calendar or use a calendar app on your mobile device.

#2 You will feel better

Once you have planned out your daily routine and start sticking to it, you will start to notice a few improvements in your health. Here’s why:

First, you will feel less stressed. With a steady routine that prioritizes the important stuff, you will worry less about “getting it all done”. You scheduled time to consistently work toward the things you have to do and now you are seeing the benefits. You are no longer sweating about how to get things done because you didn’t procrastinate.

Second, you are taking the time to get the sleep that your body needs. Also, because you are feeling less stressed, you are more likely to sleep better. Getting good sleep is critical!

A lack of sleep makes you more susceptible to diabetes, obesity, and mental health conditions. Even short-term disruptions can cause memory issues, a lack of energy, delayed wound healing and more.

Third, getting enough sleep usually means better eating. When you sleep well, you are more likely to have less cravings. Doctors believe that poor sleep disrupts the balance of ghrelin and leptin, hormones that control appetite. So, one way to avoid weight gain is to ensure you are getting enough good sleep.

Fourth, if you build in time for regular exercise, you will see the benefits. Two powerful benefits of exercise are improved mood and increased energy. These will give you the energy you need to accomplish your work each day.

#3 The D-Word

Taking a disciplined approach to your schedule is life-changing but —it will be a challenge. Most of us are not naturally disciplined and we tend to develop some bad habits during our lives. These habits may have gotten us into trouble before. Instead of re-living the past, you can take some steps to drop those bad habits and make a better future.

Making a schedule empowers you to live a disciplined life by providing the structure you need to get stuff done. So, make a schedule and commit yourself to it. When you successfully stick to your schedule, reward yourself for a job well done!

As you begin to follow your schedule on a regular basis, it will become more natural. Your body will develop a memory of the routine it is supposed to follow. This will position you to get things done and achieve more!

Smart Schools helps adults 22 and over earn their high school diploma. The affordable program offers unprecedented flexibility, allowing you to pursue education from any location. Connect with us today at (844) 467-5278 to start your journey!