College is a weird time in our lives; you're in school, but you're expected to have a job. You live with your parents and in an apartment or dorm. You now have high school friends, college friends and work friends. It's the age of "I'm going to move mountains and triple major" and "how am I not failing out of college yet?". It's the age of "I'm going to pre-make healthy meals before class and work" and "I just binge ate an entire large pizza in under half an hour." Despite constantly living a life of constant change and unknown outcomes, your late teens and early twenties can bring some of the best moments of your life. Here are four truths to help you enjoy these times more:
1. It's okay to not know what you're going to do with the rest of your life... just know what you're going to do next
Your plans are going to change. Your major is going to change. Your friend group might change or expand. While it's good to have a plan, remember that you don't need to have it all figured out right now. Even if you had the next fifty years of your life planned out, your circumstances might throw that life off course. Always know your next move, and be flexible with the rest.
2. The occasional breakdown is normal
What would college be if it weren't for the occasional dorm room, ice cream eating, sad music blaring breakdown after you get a bad grade on a test you worked hard on? Okay, so you can mostly attribute your breakdown to the fact that you haven't slept in 72 hours. Or that you haven't eaten or drank anything but Red Bull and ramen in about a week. Or that your mom isn't responding to your texts. It's not good to be stuck in a funk, but once in awhile it isn't abnormal to need some time to yourself to wallow and then come back stronger than ever.
3. You're crazy and so is everyone else
Don't judge anyone too hard. They're all in the same boat you're in! Just like you shouldn't judge anyone else, don't judge yourself too harshly. Things are hectic at this time in your life. Tests are the only thing you can be certain of in life, and everyone is sleep deprived enough to declare insanity.
4. Your family is your best friend
Never underestimate your family ties. Your parents, siblings and extended family might just be the best friend you didn't know you had. No one understands your history like they do. Make a point to keep in touch-- they're the ones who'll be there when you're in crisis. Share your accomplishments and disappointments with them!
5. Everyone gets a little burnt-out sometimes
Over the final month of classes, a lot of work piles up. You're handing in late-work, finishing up extra credit and studying for finals. You're making summer plans and looking for jobs. You're already registering for fall (and summer) classes. It's okay to be stressed out and frustrated-- just know you're not alone! Look forward to summer and celebrate the past year's accomplishments.
Remember to take a break and have a little fun!
