Organizing reduces stress

LAWRENCE, Kan., July 30 (UPI) -- University of Kansas counselors say being organized won't add more hours to a day, but it will reduce the time it takes to get something done.

The counselors in Lawrence, Kan., say time pressure is a major source of stress for many people including college students and they suggest several ways to improve organizing assignments:

-- Create a master list on paper or computer that prioritizes and updates every pending assignment or project.

-- Avoid interruptions that rob time and momentum. When a project or assignment requires special attention, escape to a quiet area to work more effectively.

-- Delegate tasks when possible -- trying to do everything can be overwhelming.

-- Stop collecting stuff. The more stuff, the more time it needs to manage. When it comes to mail and other paper work the "OHIO Rule" -- "Only Handle It Once." Most of what is held on to for later use won't be needed again.

-- Take a few minutes at the end of each day to plan for the next day. Planning what really must get done and how and when to do it can help minimize anxiety over deadlines.