Did this semester just start? Yes. Am I already feeling stressed? Also yes. As I start the second semester of my third year, I will be balancing a lot of things all at once. This means worrying about homework, tests, projects, and internships. My New Year's resolution is to make time for myself even with a full plate.
I have learned along the way how you can squash stress right off the bat by indulging in some self-care and re-organizing for the new year.
1. Invest in a planner.
It seems really simple, but investing in a good planner that is laid out well will help you so much. Don't just write down homework, but tests, projects, study dates, internship hours, or work shifts. Make sure to color code classes and other important things so you can see at a glance what's due.
2. Build a go-to playlist.
Find songs that make you happy, focused, and calm. Compile these into a playlist to help you focus while studying and doing homework. Consider finding acoustic or songs without lyrics to help you focus.
3. Actually get some sleep.
I probably sound like a broken record but setting a slight routine and going to bed around the same time helps you wake up in the morning. While I love binge watching as much as anyone else, closing the laptop and unplugging for the night can be the best thing you can do.
4. Read a book not required.
I get it, some people hate reading. But if you have thousands of pages of required reading, escaping to a new world or learning something new can eleviate some of the stress. If cracking a new book is hard for you, do what I do and download audiobooks and listen to them in the shower or when I walk to class. I suggest OverDrive which offers free books from your local library or Audible.
5. Indulge...within reason.
I love chocolate, macaroni and cheese, and bread. But I also know if I ate my body weight of any of those things I would get sick and feel terrible. If you have a craving don't deny your body. Have some, but don't go crazy or you're going to feel worse.
6. Talk to your friends.
When I get stressed, my first instinct is to dive head first into my work. When I do this, I tend to ignore my friends to finish my work. When you're stressed, not having a good support system will end up making you more stressed. Talk to your friends and let them talk to you. You probably are going through similar things.
7. Make some time for yourself.
Even if you have to schedule it in your new planner (seriously, get a planner), make some actual time for yourself. Use the time to decompress from your day. I do yoga at night to calm myself down and help clear my mind for tomorrow. You can even destress with your friends!
8. Drink some water.
Another thing everyone always tells you but helps: drink some dang water. It will help your stomach, clear your skin, and make you feel better. Guzzle it down, it's free!
9. Remember this isn't forever.
You are going to have a few weeks of a lot of stress. It's going to be hard. But it will end, just like the first semester did! Keep your head up. You got this! Stay positive, make time for yourself, stay focused, and you will have a great semester!