Boundaries with Time

We all only have 24 hours in a day, and most of us could fill twice that many hours! This is especially the case for busy students. Knowing what your priorities are will help you know what you need and want to say “yes” to, and what you must say “no” to. It’s easy to slip into a “waste time” mode. Perhaps we are trying to do homework, and instead we find ourselves scrolling social media. Sometimes this can feel restful, but sometimes it can be draining.

First consider establishing a hierarchy of priorities. Things at the top of the list are things you value the most, and therefore might need more time given to them.

Here are some activities to consider as you figure out your priorities:

• Exercise
• Studying/homework
• Spending time with friends and family
• Being outdoors
• Spiritual practice
• Hobbies
• Work/volunteering
• Learning for fun
• Watching movies or shows
• Reading for fun
• Cooking/baking
• Going out for dinner
• Helping people out

What are some other priorities we missed above?

In the chart below, do the best you can to prioritize the activities in your life. In the second column write down the amount of time you plan to give to that activity in a given week.

When you finish this chart, pay attention to the amount of time you gave everything. If you add up all the hours, do you feel like you have enough time? If you don’t think you have enough time, what can you change to make it work?