New year, new semester, new... you?

Let's face it, we hate the phrase. We see it year after year, only to be met with disappointment when we stay the same, don't lose the weight, or don't drink the water we swore we were going to drink. But just because we aren't following that silly mantra doesn't mean that you can't take life by the reins.

This semester has been a whirlwind for me ever since my classes hit Webcourses with a seemingly never-ending to-do list and too little time. The entirety of my past week was spent running around frantically trying to figure everything out, but in that time of chaos, I learned a few things that helped me get back on track to being the Girl Boss I want to be.

1. Get a head start on any and all assignments.

Don't let that foreboding to-do list scare you. Just start doing any assignments that you can while you have a sense of sanity. Break out your books and get to reading well before they need to be done so you can sponge the information with your clear mind.

2. Carry your planner with you and praise it like you would a Bible.

Write down absolutely everything. Have an assignment due by 5 p.m.? Write it down. Need to be at a club meeting at 6 p.m.? Write it down. Want to hang with a friend on Friday at 12 p.m. for lunch? Just write it down. Putting all your tasks in one place, even the fun ones, will free your mind of your agenda and you'll be able to check off the assignments as you go along.

Pro-tip: Schedule a nap. Just do it.

3. Buy some plants.

When we get stressed about school, we tend to forget about taking care of ourselves. We don't see eating as a priority and neglect our water intake. And sleep who? Don't know her. But when you have plants that you need to take care of, you put in that effort to make sure they're watered, so treat your plant like you would yourself. Remeber to water yourself and get some sunlight. Let your plant be a representation of you and your health. Plus, who doesn't love some cute little succulents in a workspace?

4. Front load your work and get that day of freedom.

Check off your to-do list throughout the week, and even if you have a Sunday deadline, just get it done Saturday. Choose a day of the week that works best for you and spend it relaxing. Stepping away from school is necessary for your mental and emotional health, so don't forget to prioritize it. On your chosen day, get outside, enjoy the air, and don't forget to do the things that make you happy. For me, I love reading at the park, so I try to make this my getaway for a couple hours, leaving my phone in the car and just enjoying nature and my plot.

5. Channel that beginning-of-the-semester energy and put it to good use.

Don't let that energy go to waste! Even if it's just getting your room in order, don't spend your day laying in bed. Work on some school work, clean your apartment, or even just start getting your semester planned out. Whatever you do, just don't let it go to waste... you'll only feel more overwhelmed in a month when your energy and ambition are drained. You can even use it with friends so you can all work on your tasks together but still get some laughs in along the way.

6. I'm sorry... but clean.

Let's face it, an aesthetically clean apartment is the best. There's nothing like feeling like you live out of a lifestyle magazine. When your space looks it's best, you'll feel your best. So before you get too busy and your clothes start piling up on that designated chair in your room, clean up. Do your dishes, fold your laundry, and sweep your floors. And don't forget the most important part: blasting some music.

7. Start your day by doing something productive.

Make your bed, take a shower, pr even just make some breakfast. When you start off on the right foot, you'll feel good for the rest of the day. It seems so silly and simple, but taking care of yourself and your surroundings is key to success. How can you expect to tackle huge tasks if you can't even put away your laundry in the morning? I know I risk sounding like my mom, but it really does make all the difference. You feed on your environment, so make sure you create a good one.

All in all, just keep reminding yourself that you are capable of everything. Don't worry about everything that needs to get done because if you put your mind to it, you can do it. Take everything one step at a time and don't forget to breathe. And if you need some daily motivation, follow the @girlboss Instagram for some killer quotes from some pretty awesome ladies.

And from the queen herself: