Winter break is almost over, which means the start of a new semester. You've had a relaxing month off and probably made up more than enough sleep. Although we're all recharged from the break, the new semester can seem daunting, and no one wants to repeat the same stress and mistakes of last semester. It's easy to fall into old habits, especially if those habits are procrastination or spending too much time on social media. So during these last few days of winter break, while it's important to get the most out of time off from classes, it's also a great time to plan ahead to ensure a productive and (mostly) stress-less semester.
1. Make Specific Goals
Since it's January, you've probably thought of a few New Years resolutions, whether you plan on taking them seriously or not. Either way, goals are important because they keep a person motivated and driven. No matter how ambitious you are, there is always room for improvement, whether it's getting a 4.0, or getting more sleep. Be specific (because overly broad goals may seem unattainable and overwhelming), and check in periodically to see how you're doing.
2. Think Realistically, and Don't Overwhelm Yourself
It's easy to create a huge list that includes every aspect of your life you wish to improve. (e.g. I want to recycle, exercise every day, eat healthy, read more, stop procrastinating, get 7 hours of sleep every day, volunteer, etc. And I will do ALL of these things this year!). However, this will overwhelm anyone, and when you find your life isn't perfect in February, it's extremely discouraging and easy to plummet. Instead, focus on a few important things, and create smaller and more attainable ways to reach broader goals.
3. Look Back
By the time finals end, most people throw away their notes and never look back. However, taking the time to reflect and seriously consider what worked well and what didn't will alleviate much unnecessary stress in the future. Even if you have an organizational system that works well, there are probably small ways to make your system more efficient.
4. Plan Organization Before Classes Start
By now, you probably have a good idea of what works for you. Some people will remember everything, while others need to write everything down everywhere. Again, look back to last semester and plan your organizational strategies beforehand. Label your folders and mark important dates on your calendar. If you like making lists, color coordinate your planner or download an app like Wunderlist. Know how you plan on taking notes so you don't switch your method mid-semester. There's nothing worse than having to find and decipher two months of notes the night before a test.
5. Stay Motivated!
There's a point during the semester when everything seems to lag. Know what motivates you and incorporate it into your daily routine, make it a priority. Whether that means leaving positive post-it notes around or rewarding yourself with a movie marathon after a long week, make sure there is always something to keep you going.
6. Take Some Time to Reflect
Periodically check up on yourself, even if it's just for a few minutes a week. If you notice you're slacking in a certain area, you can easily improve and teak your routine. You're less likely to reach a point of static unproductiveness, and it keeps you motivated. Plus, it feels great to see everything you've accomplished during the week!
7. Use What You Learn
Incorporate what you learn in the classroom in conversations and everyday observations. If a particular class seems tedious and boring, try to find an aspect that interests you and look into it further. Ask friends for their perspectives or simply notice how concepts connect. As annoying as it may be to explain how a particular moment is a great example of Social Penetration Theory, it gives the information meaning and helps you remember things for the test. You're paying thousands of dollars to take these classes, so you might as well enjoy them and get the most out of them.
Know what works best for you, and stick to it. There will definitely be moments when you'll slip up and experience temporary slumps, but if you have a game plan and periodically check in with yourself, you'll bounce back and won't waste any time.
