1. Get rid of the negativity.

Take a hard look at the people around you and think about how they individually impact your life. If they are consistently negative, treat you badly, and make you feel like you're less, it’s time to let them go. Surrounding yourself with good people that positively influence you, love you, and have your best interests in mind, will make you much happier in the end. No more excuses: politely remove the Debbie Downers for a better semester because there are far more important things that need your focus.

2. Aim for a healthier lifestyle, but don’t stress.

Whether it’s a New Year's resolution or simply a goal for the semester, the gym can be beneficial for your body, mind, and soul. However, making your health plan more realistic decreases the stress from your plate. Going to the gym 6 days a week for an hour on top of homework, a job, a social life, extracurricular obligations, and sleep, is nearly impossible to manage with ease. Instead, create a schedule specific to you that won’t be mentally and physically exhausting. Being a gym-rat and getting that six-pack may be a nice thought, but sometimes after an all-nighter, a nap is more likely the healthier choice.

3. Make yourself the priority.

There are endless opportunities on a college campus. On top of school you are expected to participate in a number of organizations and people-please, which can be quite difficult when there is the pressure to do it perfectly. Instead, take this time to focus on yourself and what you want out of your experiences. Only participate in things that will benefit you and your future. Disappointing your favorite professor by saying no, not joining that club, or dropping an unnecessary class, shouldn’t shake you. Even if you need some alone time to re-charge after a stressful week, do it, and don’t let anyone make you feel bad for taking that break. This is a time to better yourself and you’re allowed to respectfully decline anything that may get in the way of your goals.

4. Put down the phone.

The college years are supposed to be some of the best ones of your life. You’re living independently for the first time, you’re young, and you have the freedom to almost anything. However, you can’t live that dream from behind a glowing screen. Documenting every moment on social media and needing to see every post your friends make will lead to stress, depressive feelings, and some serious FOMO. Putting away the technology, the social media, and the self-facing camera, will allow you to live in the moment, which is a much happier and healthier place to be.

5. Step out of your comfort zone.

It’s the small things: taking that zumba fitness class if you’re afraid of dancing publicly, eating alone in a restaurant, or making a few changes to your wardrobe. All of these things will surely spice up your semester and make for either an amazing adventure or hilarious mistake. Challenge yourself to do something new each week in order to stray from the same old schedule you’ve become accustomed to. “New,” can be scary, so here are a few tips to help you overcome any fears that keep spontaneity from your life.