Finals week is right around the corner and I'm most of you are as stressed as I am. Many of us will spend the next week in the library studying, writing papers and presentations. The first thing you need to remember as you study, write that paper or make that power point is the light at the end of the tunnel. I have created a list of activities that will help your mental state until summer finally begins.
1. Take a break and go outside.
Feeling a little stir crazy in the library? Take a walk around campus, go to the park or just sit outside with friends. Go outside and remember that there's more to life than that test or paper. Take in the beautiful scenery and take a deep breathe. You're going to make it through these finals just like you did last year. If this is your first time experiencing finals, you will make it. I know it seems like there's no end to all of the assignments and tests, but I promise you'll make it through and you'll feel stronger when you finish. Not to mention you'll be motivated to make the most of your summer vacation.
2. Watch your favorite movie from your childhood.
As I am entering my final finals week of my undergrad career I've found myself watching movies that I enjoyed as a child. It's amazing how a movie can transport you back to the most carefree times of your life. It's an instant mood booster. It's the perfect distraction and not to mention a great way to get inspired.
3. Cry, scream and freak out if you need to.
I can't tell you how many times I have called my mom, sisters, boyfriend and best friend to just cry and scream about how frustrated I was with this paper, class and just about everything else that comes along with college. This is going to be one of the most rewarding and stressful times of your life, but this is the time when you figure out what is most important to you and who you really want to be.
4. Reward yourself throughout the chaos of finals.
When you finish that paper or presentation, go get yourself ice cream or beer. (Yes, I am a stereotypical college student, judge me.) Regardless of what you get, don't forget to reward yourself every once in a while. You're dedicating your life to education, but that doesn't mean that you don't deserve a night out on the town or that new dress. Life is about give and take, so reward yourself for all of the great things you've done and will do in your future endeavors.
5. Remember that there's a light at the end of the tunnel.
Take a deep breath and remember there's a light at the end of the tunnel. I've said this three times because it's something we all tend to forget during these stressful times. It's easy to get wrapped up in wanting to ace that test or paper that you forget to take care of your mental health. Now to end with quoting my favorite movie, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it."
