We've all heard the phrase, "your years in college are the best years of your life." While this is true, college can also be some of the most stressful years of your life. Balancing social with academics can be difficult, and cramming for a midterm, pulling an all-nighter to finish a paper, or trying to decide what you actually want to do with your life are all ways too stress yourself out to the max. Instead of having a break down because your life may seem like it's too much to handle right now, try de-stressing with some of these tips.
1. Make a List.
I've always been a list person, but since I've been in college I have become an even bigger list person. Making a list of things to do and writing their deadlines down can help you stay organized and make you feel like you know what's actually going on in your life.
2. Treat Yo'self.
Promising yourself a little treat, whether it be fro-yo or that new top you've been eyeing at the mall, after you're finished studying can work as a great incentive to actually get things done.
3. Exercise.
I believe it was the great Elle Woods in Legally Blonde that once said, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy! And happy people just don't kill their husbands.". Well, Elle, you're right. Going for a quick run or walk can help you free your mind and leave you feeling fresh and ready to tackle the rest of your day.
4. Call home.
It's extremely easy to get caught up with everything that college has to offer, but calling home is something that will wipe your worries away instantly. Talking to your parents or your best friends is a great way to unwind, and catching up with them will make you feel even better.
5. Move yourself and your work outside.
Being cooped up in the library or dorm study rooms for hours at a time can make you feel like the walls are closing in and you have no where to go. That's when you need to take your work outside. Getting some fresh air while doing your homework will help you focus more and may even cause you to enjoy doing your work.
6. Take a power nap.
We all dreaded nap time in kindergarten, but as college kids, naps are the equivalent to gold. Taking a fifteen to twenty minute nap can help you restore your energy levels and help you refocus on what you're trying to accomplish.
7. Write.
Writing how you're feeling is a great way to vent without feeling like you're being judged. When you begin to stress out, grab a pen and write down everything that might be contributing to your stress levels. Writing these things down can reduce your stress levels and make you feel better about yourself.
8. Read some inspirational quotes.
Whether they be from the Bible or from your favorite celebrity, reading inspiring words will help you feel inspired and help you get away from what's stressing you out.
9. Make changes.
Sometimes, the best way to be stress-free is to change your habits. Cramming before an exam? Try studying a week out and remembering a little bit of information each day.
10. Look at the bigger picture.
The little things in life sometimes get the best of us. That D you made on your math quiz probably won't determine if you get into graduate school or not, so try not to get caught up in it. Remind yourself that life is about so much more than getting a good grade on an essay, and take time to remember what's truly important to you.
Although it's easy to get overwhelmed in college, it can be just as easy to calm yourself down. Remember that even your worst, most stressful days only last 24 hours, and you will always have a chance to start fresh the next morning.
