While watching some T.V. last night, it happened. I saw the first Target back-to-school commercial of the year. As much as I want to go back to college, I am still in denial that this summer is almost over, so for some reason, that commercial really hit me hard. Anyway, I like to use the summer break as a time to get my life together. I try to eat healthier, exercise more, keep my room clean, and overall, take care of myself. However, summer always seems to go by in the blink of an eye.
If you're struggling to come to terms with the fact that move in day is quickly approaching, here are 20 ways to cleanse your life that will help ease your mind:
1. Clean out your closet.
This is one of my least favorite chores, but it's necessary every now and then. Maybe you have some clothes that don't fit anymore (thanks, freshman 15) or your style has drastically changed since high school. There are many options for you once you know what you need to toss. You can donate to The Salvation Army, sell your stuff to a consignment shop, or offer some of your items to your friends. This way, when school starts up, as well as your and your roommate's online shopping addictions, there will be plenty of room.
2. Change up your look.
If you notice that your roots are coming in, or you have about four inches of split ends, maybe now's the time to change up your hair. On another note, maybe there's a piercing you've been wanting to get for a while, or maybe you can't remember the last time you had a manicure or pedicure. Now's the time to treat yourself!
3. Let go of toxic people.
It's a hard thing to admit, but not all relationships are healthy. Whether we’re talking about a romantic relationship or a friendship, if it's causing you more stress than joy, it's time to let it go. Cut ties with the boy you’ve been seeing if deep down you know the two of you won’t end up together, or he’s giving you less than you deserve. Cut ties with the friend who always one-ups you, or always makes things about himself or herself. Cut ties with people who make you feel like you’re hard to love.
4. Make those appointments.
Once you’re back at school, you should still prioritize your health. However, many people are a long car ride or plane ride away from their primary doctor, dentist, therapist, etc. With this being said, make your necessary appointments before you head back to your college or university. Whether you need medication for a physical or mental condition, make sure you also get your prescriptions refilled.
5. Find an outlet for your stress.
Don’t wait until it’s the end of September and you’re in the midst of a breakdown over your Econ homework. Breakdowns may be inevitable, but if you find ways to relieve your stress ahead of time, you’ll feel so much better. Buy some journals and try writing, as it can be therapeutic to write out the things that are bothering you. You could also make a few Spotify playlists, or search for relaxing playlists that you can listen to while you study.
6. Buy a planner.
Planners are God’s gift from heaven during the hectic school year. Write down assignment due dates (even the online ones), project due dates, test, quiz or exam reviews, and exam dates. You can also use different colors to make the most important exams stand out among the others.
7. Lists, lists, lists.
Packing lists, to-do lists, grocery lists, you name it: they all come in handy. Packing lists are especially important when moving into your dorm, apartment, or house.
8. Work on your resume.
As much as we all try to avoid the thought of school during the summer, try not to neglect your resume over the break. Maybe you got a new job, got promoted, completed an internship, or went on a service trip. Those are awesome accomplishments to add.
9. Research healthy recipes.
Even if you love the dining hall food, you will probably hit a point in the year when all the food tastes the same. Or maybe you're moving off campus and won't be eating at the dining hall anymore. I would suggest making a list or mini cookbook of healthy recipes that you can make on your own. That way, if you’re at home cramming for an exam, you can make something quick and healthy.
10. Make a workout routine.
Since you most likely have your schedule already, try to block off some time during the week when you can go for a run or head to the gym. Once the school year starts up, it’ll be hard to find free time (especially time to exercise), but if you plan a routine, you’ll be more motivated.
11. Out with the old and in with the new (makeup).
I’m a big proponent of going all natural to class some days, but if you wear makeup and you’ve been using the same foundation or mascara for way too long, it’ll be good to invest in some new products.
12. Look for books.
Before school, ask your friends if they have the textbooks that you may need, or see if you can find good deals for used books online. However, every school is different, so if your professor doesn’t specify that you need the book before the first day of class, then wait to buy it. You might not need it!
13. Make some extra cash.
I love taking my clothes to consignment shops, such as Plato’s Closet. The employees will look through the clothes and shoes that you bring in, and if the clothes are in acceptable condition, they’ll give you cash right on the spot!
14. Fix your social media accounts.
Make sure you turn on the privacy settings for your social media accounts because you’ll probably be looking into getting an internship at some point during your college career. Also, if your social media accounts are full of pictures from your freshman year of high school and just the thought of it makes you mortified, feel free to clean up your Facebook albums or Instagram feed.
15. Clean up your phone.
I am constantly being notified that my phone is almost out of storage. Before the year starts, upload your pictures to your laptop and delete the pictures off of your phone. You could also delete old texts, old music, or any apps that you no longer use.
16. Write letters and be thankful.
Write letters to the people you’ve lost, loved, or are thankful to have in your life (whether you want to send the letters or not is up to you). Write letters to your parents or best friends and send them during your first week of school. Write to your future self and don’t open it until next year, or your graduation.
17. Create study plans.
Make sure you know what works for you. If you like making flash cards, then stock up on some index cards. If you like studying with others, try to find a friend in each class or a friend who already took the class. This way, you will have people to turn to when times get tough.
18. Ask for help regarding your schedule and major.
Maybe you studied abroad, went on a trip that changed your life, or had a job or an internship that you absolutely despised. Whatever the case may be, if you're thinking about changing your major, don't be afraid to do some research. Make a list of questions that you have. When school comes around, make a visit to the career center.
19. Get more sleep.
If you stay out super late or stay up until 2 a.m. binge watching Netflix, you may want to change your sleep schedule before school starts. Seriously, you’ll want to get some sleep in while you can.
20. Write down your goals.
Try to make your goals as specific as possible. They can be as small or as big as you want them to be. Just remember, even if you write down your goals and you feel prepared for just about anything, know that not everything will go as planned. You should work on the things you can control, for example, getting the year off to a good, fresh start.