Finals week is a challenge, to say the least, and it can seem hard to accomplish everything you have to do and stay sane and healthy at the same time. However, in order to be successful at finals, you have to be successful at taking care of yourself as well. That being said, here are some tips to help you through.
1. Caffeine is your best friend.
Whether you are up late studying for that exam tomorrow morning, perfecting that final paper or crying tears of despair onto the pages of that text book, caffeine will always have your back. It will give you the gift of energy, hopefully enough to take that mountain of impossible-seeming tasks by storm. Believe me, you'll get that studying done, you'll pass that exam, and you'll ace that paper. Just be prepared for the crash that is to come when all that liquid energy leaves your system.
2. Studying is important, but so is sleeping.
During finals, it is easy to want to pull an all-nighter and memorize every single word of your notes, but remember, your body needs sleep. Your brain needs sleep. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that people between the ages of 18-25 need seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Though that may seem nearly unheard of during finals week, remember that the better rested you are, the clearer you will be able to think. Furthermore, naps are a delightful thing. Embrace them.
3. Don't forget to eat.
Food is vital to your body. Though it may seem like you don't have time to sit down and eat, make time. Heck, you can even go over your study guide while eating. Plus, if you don't eat, you may get hungry in the middle of an exam, and if you are anything like me, being hungry is the most distracting thing ever. Take care of your body and your mind, so they can take care of you and work properly during your exams.
4. You probably know more than you think you do.
Relax. You've gone over the study guide, you've read your notes, and you've driven yourself crazy trying to list everything out in your head over and over. Stop. Stressing yourself out even more won't do you any good. I firmly believe that there comes a point when you've over studied and start to second guess yourself and every answer you choose. Don't get to that point. Go with your instincts and be confident in your abilities. If you can't remember something right off the bat, stay calm. Know that it is filed somewhere in your brain, and just try your best.
5. Summer is coming.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Your struggles this week will be rewarded with sunny days, blue skies, and no homework. If you're like me, you'll need to get a summer job... or two. But don't forget to take some time for yourself. Read a book, go on an adventure or even catch up with some old friends. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it is about you. Summer is your time to recover and rejuvenate for the coming year. Enjoy it.
