6 tips for creating a successful routine

Your first semester at CU can be both exciting and overwhelming. Getting into a routine can help you manage your time and stress. It can also be helpful if you’re living away from your family for the first time. Just keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another, so it’s important to experiment to find what works best for you.  

Here are some options to help you get started. 

1. Start in the morning 

Creating a morning routine can help you feel prepared for the day ahead. The best part is that it doesn’t have to be elaborate or complicated. In fact, it’s usually better to keep it simple, so you can easily stick to it each day.  

Here are some activities you can include as part of your morning routine: 

• Wake up at the same time each day (and try not to vary too much on the weekends) 
• Stretch for two or three minutes to wake yourself up 
• Wash your face and brush your teeth  
• Take a relaxing shower 
• Drink a glass of water (and take any medications you may have) 
• Pack your bag for the day 
• Grab a quick breakfast or stop by a dining center 
• Think through three goals you have for the day 

Doing these types of activities in the same order each day can help you get into a rhythm and give yourself structure. It’s also okay to adjust your routine if it ends up not working for you. 

2. Think through your day 

Are there things you need to get done each day? Make a loose plan to make sure your schedule can accommodate them in addition to some downtime for yourself. This may include mapping out your class times, commuting to and from classes, study periods and extracurricular activities. Keep in mind that depending on your class schedule, your days may look slightly different throughout the week. 

For some people, it’s better to have a loose plan that allows them flexibility. However, you may also benefit from setting specific times for yourself. No matter how you plan out your day, it’s important to leave a buffer between activities, so you can make a smooth transition and account for things that may come up unexpectedly.  

3. Designate your study space and time 

It can be hard to find time to study if you don’t plan it out in advance. If possible, try to study at the same time in the same place on a regular basis. For instance, you may choose to study at the library every day for one hour from 5 to 6 p.m. 

Try to pick a study spot that fits your needs. Some people may benefit from finding a quiet secluded area while others may not mind high traffic or noisy spaces. Try out a few different spaces on campus to see what works best for you. You can also find study spots off campus at the Boulder Library or cafes. 

4. Wrap up the day 

Creating evening and nighttime rituals can help you wind down from the day. 

Here are some activities to try: 

• Go to regular dinners with friends or people from your residence hall or classes 
• Read a book, stretch or journal before bed 
• Reflect on the day and/or set goals for tomorrow 
• Pack your bag or pick out your outfit for tomorrow in advance 
• Set a time to sign off of social and turn off your notifications 
• Wash your face and brush your teeth 
• Take a relaxing shower 
• Go to bed around the same time and aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night (even on the weekends) 

No matter how you relax for the night, try to keep it simple. If things come up, you can always adjust or shorten your routine. It’s also okay to change up your routine if it ends up not working for you. 

5. Check in with yourself 

Set aside some time each week to reflect on and reassess your schedule and routine. What has been going well? What challenges have you faced? Establishing an effective routine can take time and patience, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t figure it out right away.  

Instead, try to practice flexibility and be open to mixing things up if things don’t feel like they’re working. You may need to reprioritize your time, cut back in certain areas or reach out for support.  

6. Connect with resources 

If you need help adjusting to campus or building an effective routine, there are resources on campus that can help. Here are a few to check out.