Create a Plan for Your Distractions: Back-to-School with Happy Spaces
Photo by Nathana Rebouças on Unsplash.
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PROJECT OF THE WEEK
Let's be honest. Distractions are everywhere. Your phone, video games, YouTube, TikTok, notifications, roommates, and even the thought of doing something more fun can make it really hard to focus on schoolwork.
One question I often ask students is, "What is your plan for dealing with distractions before they happen?"
The key word is before.
When you are already tired after a long day of classes, it is much harder to make the best decision in the moment. Instead, think ahead and create a system that makes focusing easier.
Getting started
Maybe you decide that you will work for 45 minutes with your phone in your backpack before taking a break. Maybe you use your phone's Do Not Disturb settings or leave your phone in another room while you study.
Some students find it helpful to create a rule that certain activities happen after schoolwork is complete. For example, playing video games, watching YouTube, or scrolling TikTok can become a reward after finishing the tasks you planned for the day.
One student I worked with knew gaming was his biggest distraction, so he made a decision that worked for him: he left his gaming headset and handheld in his car during the school week. By removing the temptation, he made it easier to focus on what needed to get done.
There is no perfect strategy that works for everyone. The goal is to be honest with yourself and create a plan that helps you follow through on your priorities.
Remember, being organized isn't just about managing your assignments. It's also about managing your environment so you can do your best work.
This Week's Happy Spaces Challenge: Identify your biggest distraction and create one simple strategy to make it easier to focus. A small change can make a big difference.
Big Projects Become Easier When You Break Them Down.
The Project/Paper Planning Checklist helps students turn overwhelming assignments into a clear, manageable plan.
By breaking projects and papers into smaller steps, identifying key deadlines, and creating a roadmap for completion, students can reduce procrastination, stay organized, and make steady progress. A little planning at the beginning can save a lot of stress at the end.
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.