Whether you're a college student, a person getting used to the new world of adulting, a hard-working parent, or newlywed, here are seven ways to stay on top of your life (as much as we can).
1. Stay Organized (aka, plan)
I'm the type of person that always needs to know what's next. That's why I constantly check my planner for important dates such as assignment deadlines, exam days, club meetings, sorority socials or my work schedule. Planners are extremely helpful for the daily busy-body. Jot down to-do lists or important notes for the future as well.
2. Don't Stress
I'll admit, I'm an adamant worrier. But there's really no benefit to working yourself up about something. Take a deep breath, and trust that whatever time you took studying for an exam or practicing a presentation will help you when the time comes.
3. Sleep
Out of three factors: binge drinking, marijuana use, and sleep deprivation, which do you think affected a college student's GPA the most? The answer is actually sleep deprivation. Although I highly encourage everyone to NOT do the latter, it just goes to show how important sleep is. Getting adequate sleep help store memories by retaining information that you've learned throughout the day. Sleep also helps you recuperate and give you energy. So get rid of those all-nighter habits or late-night movie watching, and get your daily does of 8 hours a night.
4. Ignore FOMO
I know it's hard to discipline yourself to writing a paper or studying for a quiz when all your friends are out for karaoke night or a girl's night out on the town, but know when it's time to work hard as opposed to playing hard. Thrown together assignments or projects will not pay off in the long run.
5. Pray
For me, prayer is exactly what I need among the chaos of being bogged down among the materialism of college. When all else fails, pray. God is the ever-powerful being who will always be there to guide, comfort, and strengthen you. Even if you aren't the religious type, take some time for yourself and reflect on why you work hard, and what your goals and values are. It's stressful being bogged down on the daily tasks, but know that we all have a purpose, and that we all are working hard in life, whether it's being in college, working, starting marriage life, or getting the hang of parenthood.
6. Keep your loved ones closer
I feel that one big part of success is surrounding yourself with the right people. You don't have to constantly surround yourself with the same colleagues. Talk with your significant other, mentor, advisor, parent, sibling, or best friend. It can be therapeutic listening to other people, they're daily struggles or advice for you.
7. Stay positive
They say that the most stressed people in the world are college students, but it doesn't have to be. Starting the day on a positive foot can make the greatest difference. Get rid of any anxieties or frustrations by keeping positive throughout the day, even when things get tough. There are so many things to be grateful for, and so many privileges that we have in this world.
