Another school year is upon us. With classes, friends, significant others, work responsibilities, and apartment living, there's no doubt that there are many things to look forward to. However, with great responsibility, and even great fun, there comes big stress. In the flurry of paperwork and low college budgets, it can be easy to dwell on the negative. This fall, de-stress yourself by using these five simple methods to creating a positive mind:
1. List the things you're grateful for.
Listing what you're grateful for does not have to happen with paper and pen. Before you get out of bed in the morning, try to count on your fingers ten things you appreciate in life. These can be as broad as "family" or as simple as "a hot cup of hazelnut flavored coffee." Just simply setting aside time to clear your mind and show gratitude will gear your mind up for a happier day.
2. Take time throughout the day to appreciate the scenery. 
How many times have you walked to class staring down at your phone? Try putting your phone in your pocket for your entire walk or even tucking it away in your bag. Smile at people when you walk by. Recognize the beautiful buildings or look up at the sky. Find something beautiful in the middle of your stressful day and think about it. Recognize the smell of the bagel shop, the sound of the clock tower ringing, and take it in.
3. Give yourself tiny breaks to refresh. 
Don't overwork yourself. Know when your body and mind are telling you to take a nap. Give yourself moments to breathe and to reassess. Constantly reflect on how you're feeling. Ask yourself, "Can this wait until tomorrow?" "Is what I'm doing contributing positively to my life?" If the answer is no, it's time to take a break.
4. Talk it out. Write it out. Just get it out.
Put pen to paper for ten minutes. Write down everything that comes to your mind. Seeing your worries and stressors on paper can put it in perspective. If you were in a plane looking down at your life, would this seem like a big deal to you as an outsider? If you'd rather vent to your best friend, do that. But, then gear the conversation in a way that is positive. Talk about a movie you want to see. Bake something. Get your mind off of what's bothering you and leave it behind for awhile.
5. Pass on the positivity.
Once you're feeling positive, pass it on. Pay for the person behind you in line at Dunkin Donuts. Hold the door for someone. Compliment that girl in your class who always has great ideas. Leave your roommate a nice note. Just smile. Being positive is one of the most attractive things about a person, and is something the world needs more of.
