Buy Your Books Before You Need Them: Back-to-School with Happy Spaces
Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Every semester, I hear a version of the same story: "I was waiting to see if I really needed the book." Then the first reading assignment arrives, the bookstore is sold out, shipping takes longer than expected, or the student is already a week behind.
One of the easiest ways to set yourself up for success is to get your books as soon as you can.
Getting started
Whether you choose a printed textbook, an e-book, or a rental, having it before you need it means you're ready when your professor assigns the first chapter. There's nothing more frustrating than wanting to get started but not having the materials you need.
While I still love the experience of reading from a physical book, many digital textbooks come with incredible study tools. Explore what's included! You might find flashcards, practice quizzes, chapter summaries, videos, or interactive learning activities. These resources can make studying more engaging and help you review concepts throughout the semester.
Once you have your textbook, don't just put it on the shelf. Spend a few minutes getting familiar with it. Is there a glossary of key terms? Review questions at the end of each chapter? Practice problems you can use to check your understanding? Knowing what's available before you need it makes studying so much easier.
This Week's Happy Spaces Challenge: Get all of your textbooks before classes are in full swing. Then spend 10 minutes exploring each one so you know exactly what resources are available when it's time to study. Your future self will be grateful you did!
Don't Just Study Hard.
Study with a Plan.
The Study Plan Checklist helps students create a clear roadmap before they begin studying.
By identifying what needs to be reviewed, breaking study sessions into manageable steps, and creating a plan for success, students can feel more confident, focused, and prepared. A little planning before studying can lead to better use of time and less last-minute stress. The Secret to Better Studying? A Plan.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're feeling excited about putting this strategy into action and could use a little extra accountability and support, the It’s All in the Planning Starter Pak is here to help! Designed to set you up for success, it’s the perfect tool to keep you on track and moving forward.
Let’s make progress together—because great results start with great planning!
A Note from Happy Spaces
Our goal is simple: to add value to your life. If you think this project will be helpful, here are some steps to set yourself up for success:
Estimate how long it will take—then double it. Giving yourself extra time helps reduce stress.
Schedule it on your calendar for the week ahead. Setting a specific date increases follow-through.
Break it up if it will take more than an hour. Tackling it in smaller steps makes it more manageable.
Make a list of every action needed before you start. A clear plan helps keep you on track.
Do what works for you—you don’t have to complete every part, just what adds value to your life.
Find an Accountability Partner—having support makes it easier to stay committed.
We understand that building new habits and systems can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. For additional support, visit HappySpacesBySarah.com and let’s make organizing and planning easier together.
Creating a life you don't need a vacation from! ®
Sincerely,
Sarah Weingarten
Meet Sarah
As the oldest of nine kids with two working parents, I grew up juggling many responsibilities at home. Organization and time management became my lifeline amidst the chaos.
I attended the Cornell Hotel School and pursued my childhood dream of working in the hospitality industry. In 2016, I launched Happy Spaces, combining my passion for structure and efficiency with helping others.
I love working with students to develop essential organizational, time management, and study skills. These skills empower them to reach their full potential, build confidence, and create a future they feel good about.