College Lecture – Time Management
Read or Listen to the Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today I want to talk about something that affects nearly every student—time management. I’ve noticed that many of you are doing your best but still feeling overwhelmed. The truth is, you’re often trying to do too much at once. You bite off more than you can chew by joining several clubs, volunteering, taking extra classes, and trying to keep up with everything at the same time. The problem isn’t effort—it’s balance. Success comes from managing your schedule, not from working nonstop.
You need to set aside blocks of time each week to rest or do something that helps you recharge—whether that’s reading, walking, or spending time with friends. If you fall behind, don’t panic. It’s okay to get back on track slowly. Make a plan, stick to it, and be realistic about what you can accomplish. Remember, time is like money—you have to spend it wisely. The goal isn’t to be busy; it’s to be effective. Smart planning will save you from stress and help you reach your goals without burning out.
Read the Friend’s Text Message
I had an appointment today that I couldn’t miss but I did miss the lecture today. What was the professor saying about time management? Why did she say people “bite off more than they can chew”? And what does “get back on track” mean?
Student Writing Tasks
Write a text reply to your friend’s message.
Use clear, polite sentences.
Summarize what the speaker said in your own words.
Use in Your Daily Life
What do the following idioms and phrasal verbs mean in these sentences from everyday life?
I bit off more than I could chew by saying yes to three projects at once.
Try to set aside a few minutes each day to relax.
I’m finally starting to get back on track after being sick.
Managing your time helps you stay balanced instead of overwhelmed.
