This could help anyone, but it's tailored towards those of us who are getting into the nitty-gritty, upper division, degree-requirement type of classes who are also working part-time or full-time jobs. Basically, those who may feel that the world is on their shoulders; those who need a break.
- First thing's first, tell somebody. Your mom, your best friend, anyone. There is nothing worse than being completely stressed out without anyone aware of what you are going through.
- Get in bed. Preferably with a pet. They may not have any idea what is going on, but they will sense how you feel and they will snuggle accordingly (yes, even my 80lb Rottweiler knows when it’s not a good time to step on my face and sit on my chest). If you don’t have a pet, listen to music. DO NOT curl up in bed without any sort of mental distraction because you will end up overthinking literally everything.
- Exercise! It’s empowering. It’s a great way to release tension and frustration. Finding motivation is hard, I know. There are days where I walk in my door after class and go straight to the kitchen and chug pre-workout before I have a chance to stop myself. Then I will HAVE to workout; unless I want to feel all tingly and pumped as I lay in bed wallowing in self pity. Mental goals are hard to reach, and it can be really disappointing when you can’t get to where you want to be. This is why it is important to set for yourself different avenues of success. Physical success cannot be crammed, or memorized, or forgotten.
- (Window) Shop Online. You don’t have to buy anything. Just browse. Picture different outfits. Build yourself a new closet. Put things in your cart. Then close your computer and go study. When you get back to it, you’ll realize how you barely thought of any of those things. The trick here is that you kept your mind busy for 30-40 minutes without stressing yourself out. Meditation isn’t for everyone. Some people just can’t clear their mind, BUT it can be distracted.
- Look at old pictures. Sometimes it’s nice to look back on where you’ve been, because it helps you realize just how far you’ve come. You have to remember to look at the big picture. College is a very short amount of time compared to the future that you are destined for.
