To the overwhelmed college student that is simply just trying to get by, it's okay. Life is challenging, and it has a lot of unexpected twists and turns that go against what you've had mapped out since your childhood, but hey, it's okay.
1. It's okay that you don't know what career you want to pursue yet.
It's stressful and you feel like you don't have time, but you do. Life doesn't happen overnight. It's a process. However, don't take a bunch of blow-off classes. Take classes that pique your interest. Otherwise, you won't have much of an idea of what career you will eventually pursue.
2. It's okay that you can't be healthy 24/7.
I know firsthand that trying to eat healthy is stressful, and stressing constantly over whether or not you've worked out or eaten right on a daily basis ironically isn't good for your health either. Just breathe. It's okay to not be perfect and have what I call "bad food days." But remember, mental health is important too. Just do your best, and you'll be fine.
3. It's okay that you make mistakes.
I'm not saying by any means that certain actions are justifiable, but we're all flawed human beings. We're all going to mess up once in a while, but the key is to grow and better ourselves from these mistakes. That's what's important.
4. It's okay to relax.
College is a constant pull in the direction of studying or the direction of socializing. There's not much room for middle ground. However, it's important to remember that making time to just relax, nap, or just be alone every now and then is a necessity if you want to keep your sanity. Well, at least in my case.
5. It's okay if you lose friends.
A lot of the time, your typical group of friends that you hung out with in high school disbands for various reasons. Don't feel guilty if friendships fall apart. All you can do is be there for your old friends, understand that everyone's schedules are crazy, and hope it's reciprocated. And if it's not, don't blame yourself. They're not worth it anyway.
6. It's okay to miss a class once in a while.
Just don't make a habit of this. Attendance is important, but I know that sometimes sleeping in is do or die. I mean, extra sleep is pretty important to me.
7. It's okay to be stressed.
You're not alone. Whether it be internally or externally, everyone is freaking out over something. Yet somehow, each time, you seem to push through. Don't forget to just breathe.
8. It's okay to make a bad grade.
I obviously wouldn't make a habit of this, but a bad grade isn't going to kill you. In high school, you might've made all 'A's, but college is a whole different ball game. Just do your best and keep that GPA up.
College is hard on everyone. Just remember to take time, breathe, know that everyone is in the same boat, and it's going to be okay. We just all need to breathe. So keep working hard, and eventually everything will fall into place.
