It's the week that everyone dreads and the time where everyone suffers. You saw the date for your final exams on the syllabi, but it was too early to care. College is all fun and games until finals creep up on you. Assignments, papers, and projects start to pile up and can get so overwhelming when there are less than three weeks left in the semester. But I am here to let you know that everything will be okay! Even if things don't necessarily feel that way, here are 6 tips to be successful for yet another dreadful finals week.
1. Meditate.
Finals is always overwhelming, so it's best to clear your mind. Meditation can help if you're feeling anxious and frustrated. It can help you focus and not let your mind roam. Whether it's a five-minute meditation session or an hour, you can meditate anywhere, at any time.
2. Plan.
One of the best ways to avoid stress is to get organized and plan ahead! Time management is very important for everyone - no matter the situation. If you don't have a daily planner, go to your campus bookstore and grab one! Plan out your day accordingly, and leave ample time for studying, eating, and other tasks that you need to get done for the day. Without proper organization, you can find yourself flustered and lost as the work continues to come at full force.
3. Eat well.
Junk food is fast and cheap, but if you don't properly nourish your body, you will feel tired and drained with a short attention span. Try and stay away from processed sugars, fats, and salts. I know it's hard to eat well in college, but try your best to eat a balanced meal loaded with fruits and vegetables. And don't forget to stay hydrated with a lot of water!
4. Put on a face mask.
All-nighters and unhealthy eating can all be reflected in your skin: dark circles, oily or dull skin, and acne. Grab your favorite mask from your medicine cabinet, or stop at a local superstore and use the face mask as you study.
5. Cry.
The tears will come, so let them fall. Crying can help to relieve stress and make you feel better, so don't fight them back. No one is going to judge you for it.
6. Take a break.
There is more to success than keeping your nose stuck to a book and reading until your eyes cross. Take a nap, watch an episode of your favorite show, go for a walk in a park, or grab something to eat with your closest friends. It's OK to have some leisure time for yourself to keep you from spiraling out of control. Taking a break will keep you sane and can actually help you retain the information you're studying for.