Making Every Minute Count by Jaquelin

Making Every Minute Count by Jaquelin - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

Time management has been the small habit that has made the biggest difference in both my academic and personal life. A few years ago, I often felt overwhelmed by schoolwork, work, and family responsibilities. I would constantly stay up late trying to finish assignments, only to realize I had wasted hours scrolling through social media. There are so many hours in the day, but I wasn't using my time wisely, that it started consuming other aspects of my life. Getting enough sleep, spending quality time with my kids, and sometimes even eating regular meals without feeling rushed seemed unattainable. That realization pushed me to develop a daily routine focused on planning and prioritizing my tasks.

Every week, I write down things that I need to accomplish, from school assignments to appointments and household responsibilities. I break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and give my self a realistic time frame for each. For example, I dedicate a time on the weekend to thoroughly clean my home, so that during the busy week I can spend just thirty minuets to an hour to tidying and maintaining it. I also set limits on social media, checking it only periodically throughout the day. I've gotten better at avoiding "doom scrolling" by taking brief moments, like waiting in the school pick-up line to quickly scroll through my phone. This habit has ensured that my time is used intentionally rather than slipping away unnoticed.

The impact has been profound, and I wish I had learned to better use my time sooner. Academically, I am able to better plan and complete assignments on time, study more effectively and feel less stressed. By better managing my time, I have more free time to spend with my family, volunteer at my kids school, and even pursue hobbies I enjoy. Even small moments of focus, like a thirty-minute study session without distractions, adds up to significant results over time.

This habit has also taught me discipline and self-awareness. Ive learned that time is always sufficient if we prioritize it correctly and avoid unnecessary distractions. By consciously deciding how to spend our time, I feel more in control of my life and more confident in my abilities.

Ultimately, time management is more than just a tool for productivity, it's a way to respect my own goals and responsibilities while maintaining balance in my life. I know that the skills I've built will continue to benefit me in my college education and beyond, ensuring that I make most of the everyday without letting little distractions take over.