Anticipate and avoid overload.

Plan ahead to avoid “commitment collision.” As you decide what you can and can’t take on, think ahead to everything that you’ll be responsible for.
• If you’re in charge of the school fundraiser, don’t schedule a visit from your parents at the same time. Plan another time for a visit.
• Revisit your schedule regularly. Think ahead about your long-term schedule to make sure commitments aren’t on a collision course.
• Don’t wait until you’re in crisis mode to look for help.
• Learn to say “no” when you can’t honor a request and find realistic solutions that work for everyone.