A Habit and routine for success by Demarcus

A Habit and routine for success by Demarcus - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

A small habit that can make a huge difference in both academic and personal success is spending ten minutes each evening planning the next day. It sounds simple, almost insignificant, yet this brief routine creates clarity, focus, and consistency that compound over time.
Each night, I sit down with a notebook and review what the day held. This includes what went well, what felt challenging, and what needs attention tomorrow. From there, I identify three priority tasks for the next day. Not a long, overwhelming list, but three clear goals that truly matter. This practice has reduced mental clutter and allows me to begin each morning with direction instead of anxiety.
Academically, this habit transforms how I approach studying and assignments. Instead of reacting to deadlines, I proactively allocate time for reading, problem-solving, and review. Planning ahead makes it easier to break large projects into manageable steps. This helps with retention and reduces procrastination. When I sit down to study, I already know what needs to be done, so my focus is sharper and my time is used more efficiently.
On a personal level, evening planning encourages balance and self-awareness. It creates a space to schedule workouts, fun, volunteering, and moments of rest without guilt. By intentionally shaping my days, I become more mindful of how my time aligns with my values. This awareness strengthens discipline while preventing burnout. Rest becomes a planned priority rather than an afterthought.
Another powerful aspect of this habit is the sense of control it provides. Life is unpredictable, but having a plan builds confidence and resilience. When unexpected challenges arise, I can adapt more easily because I already have a framework for my time. This consistently builds trust in myself, which is essential for long-term growth.
Over weeks and months, ten minutes a day adds up. The habit reinforces accountability, sharpens my focus, and nurtures self-discipline. More importantly, it encourages intentional living. This helps me choose how to show up academically and personally instead of drifting through obligations.
In the end, success is rarely the result of dramatic change. It is shaped by small, repeatable actions done with purpose.