We are finally getting settled into our dorms and into our new schedules, we find ourselves already feeling the stress of what is to come. Of course, some stress is good. It motivates us and helps us focus on our priorities. But there is a point where it gets to be too much. We all know the feeling of our head pounding, tears welling, and just wanting to sleep it all away. That's why it's important to remember to do a couple of crucial things when we are in these situations.

1. First things first, make a schedule

Prioritizing is a great way to keep on top of things. Daily or weekly, write out your most important tasks and assignments and set aside times to get them done. Knowing you have the time to do things will help you relax when you know you have a packed week ahead.

2. Sleep!

As crazy as it seems, college kids need to sleep too. Creating a consistent sleep/wake schedule and making sure you are getting a sufficient number of hours a night will make you a happier person. Being more awake keeps you in a better mood and more motivated, therefore, you will end up being too positive to be stressed!

3. Do one productive thing each morning.

Seriously. Getting up and doing one simple task can set the tone for the whole day. Even something so small as planning your day, taking out your trash, or organizing your desk. Once you start the productivity it is easy to keep it going and you may even enjoy the sense of routine and accomplishment!

4. Make time for yourself.

When your brain is constantly working it is perfectly healthy to schedule time each day when you can simply think about nothing. Short naps, SINGLE Netflix episodes, mindless scrolling, or Youtube video watching will bring you back down to earth so you can go about the rest of your day in a relaxed and renewed manor. We all need a little me time, just be sure it's a controlled amount!

5. Exercise! Get outside.

Exercise/physical activity is proven to release endorphins in your brain which make you happier and more energetic. Besides that, on nice days fresh air is so calming and good for you. Just going on a walk is productive in itself; it keeps you from getting sick and it keeps your mind on track. Spending a solid 20 minutes outside on a nice sunny day is stress's worst nightmare.

6. Make time for your friends.

Listen to Dave. As tired as we may be, being a consistent homebody (or library-body) will only increase your stress levels. Good friends are special in that they can be our personal headache cure. Spending just a couple minutes a day goofing off with other people will help you forget about your crazy week and those are the times and the conversations we are going to remember when we graduate.

7. Take it one step at a time.

Yes, I get it. We have a million things to do so we need to rush at times. But on each task, what we need to do is think about that one task. Our best work comes when we have a clear mind and room to think. What we all need to remember when it comes to managing our stress is that taking things one step at a time is always best, and we will get our best work out of taking our time.

The best way to go about dealing with the stresses of college life is striving to find the small joys in every day. Listen to your favorite songs, watch your favorite T.V. show, or enjoy dinner with your friends. It's crucial that you take breaks because the little bursts of happiness we experience directly combat the sadness stress tries to thrust upon us.

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