As technology makes us more connected and more liable to multitask, we sometimes find our lives becoming increasingly hectic and stressful. Life doesn't slow down for anyone, but taking a minute to check in on ourselves and how we are is essential to make sure we can perform to the best of our abilities.
1. Reach out to a friend every once in a while
Maybe one of your friends has been distant or less communicative lately. Taking a few minutes just to shoot them a "how have you been lately" text won't cost you anything and would probably mean the world to them.
2. Doing nothing feels better when you actually have nothing to do
Nothing feels better than kicking back in bed, but only when you already finished that term paper you've been leaving until the very last minute. Get on your grind now so you can enjoy yourself later.
3. Give yourself room to breathe
Multitasking is great until you check your calendar and see that you scheduled seven events in 10-minute intervals with just barely enough time to eat and shower. Try not to cram your days full of work/events unless you want to collapse. Spacing out events accordingly will keep you busy and prepared for the next day.
4. Indulgence is necessary every once in a while
You work hard. If you've been studying and working and exercising consistently, a cookie or a glass of wine will not do any harm. Enjoy yourself! Life is too short not to.
5. One bad grade doesn't mean you're a failure
We've all been there. You say no to plans and study your ass off and still don't perform as well as you'd like on an exam. Don't look at it negatively ("I can't do this" or "This just isn't my subject.") Instead, take time to speak to your professor after class to go over the questions you didn't understand and how you can improve in the future. Take it as a learning experience, not something that determines how intelligent you are.
6. Reaching out doesn't make you look weak
We all need a support system for those days where nothing seems to be going right. Don't be afraid to reach out to a friend if you're having a bad day. You're not bothering them, and it helps build trust between the two of you in the long run.
7. Did you remember to take care of YOU today?
No matter how chaotic your day is, I can't stress enough the importance of taking a second to make sure you're alright. Did you take all your medications today? Completely drowning in negativity? Take a moment to collect your thoughts and relieve stress before it ruins the rest of your day.
8. Cutting off contact doesn't make you a bitch
We all know that one person that is more draining than fun to be around. They could be a source of negative energy for you, and if they harm more than they help you, then it's time to consider saying goodbye. You'll thank yourself later.
9. No one really knows what we're doing. We're all just doing the best that we can.
Life doesn't come with an instruction manual. Just do what makes you happy and what feels best for you and you'll truly be living your best life.
man running in forestPhoto by 
