If you are like me, you are a perfectionist. You overload your schedule with challenging classes and are determined to get straight A's. As the semester goes on, you feel pretty confident in your abilities to pass your classes, but when finals hit, you are in over your head in stress, tears and flash cards. Over the years I have learned that straight A's are not everything, and the pressure I put on myself only hinders my ability to perform well academically. Even the expectations I find my parents putting on me can be quite ridiculous and definitely not worth the stress. So if you can relate, this is my challenge to you. Take a breath and enjoy life! Enjoy college because it goes by fast. While you have yourself neck-deep in homework, you are missing the moments you should remember for the rest of your life. Here are five things that I am going to do this year instead of stressing out, will you join me?

1. Have a movie marathon.

Nothing beats curling up into bed with your best friends and watching movies. Let's be honest, if you have not truly studied for your exam yet, you probably will not until the last hour cram sesh you are going to have before class. Relax and put your feet up! Quality time with friends is definitely what you need to reboot your motivation to study. Plus, who does not want to watch "We're The Millers," for the 100th time?

2. Go for a late-night Wal-mart run.

Whether it is your fourth year or first at Benedictine, you have probably figured it out that there is not much to do in Atchison. A trip to Wal-mart usually includes lots of laughter and unexpected adventure. Put your homework down for an hour and let loose! Race your friends in the motorized carts or have a scavenger hunt. It really is worth the time you are not going to use to study anyways.

3. Spend time in reflection and prayer.

This is one may be the most important. If you cannot find balance in your life, it will be rough. This means taking care of both academics and your own spiritual and emotional health. It is good to take some time to yourself to find your motivation and reflect on your progress. If you see all the benefits that come with taking care of yourself, you are going to want to continue these good habits. Reflection and prayer are a lifestyle that will bring you peace and freedom. Do not let this be the first thing you cut out when you are looking for some extra time to buy.

4. Meet new people.

Meeting new people and growing outside of the comfort zone of your friend group is important. Not only do you get a break from drama, but you get to meet some pretty incredible people who you thought you had nothing in common with. It is important year-after-year to expand your social circle and find those who will challenge you to grow as a person. Remember friends, you were not made for comfort.

5. Get involved.

Getting involved in extracurricular activities is crucial to your college experience...and it looks good on your resume. Again, go outside of your comfort zone. Try something new! There are so many ways to get involved on campus, and it does not hurt to go to at least one meeting. Make the best of your time, and give yourself a break from academics. They may be important, but they are not everything!