It's hard to believe the first five days of class are already over for us UF students. Even though syllabus week was likely spent going out and not having much assigned work to do, if you're a normal college student the stress has already started to sink in. Here are five tips to try and incorporate into your everyday life to help you stay calm now that the focus is back on your GPA.
1. Set Goals
These could be as simple as waking up by 9 every morning, or as intense as achieving an all-A semester. Maybe you want to limit yourself to only going out twice a week, or want to join a new organization on campus. From experience, I know that I don't get anything done unless I have some sort of idea of what I want. Whether it's school related or not, taking the time to not only set these goals, but write them down will get you motivated. I suggest taping them to your mirror so that every morning you wake up remembering what you have your sights set on.
2. Work out
Trust me, I know this one is tough for us all. I'd be lying if I said I worked out every day, but the few times a week that I make it to the gym really does help keep me sane. There's always articles out there about how releasing endorphins and exercising helps relieve stress, so even doctors can tell you it's true. Don't push yourself or become obsessed, but go try new things! Take a yoga class at the gym or try walking to the library - every little bit counts.
3. Do Something Nice for Someone
This one really is a game changer. It doesn't have to be anything major, it may just be as simple as letting someone borrow a pen. Once again, it is statistically proven that happiness is a chain effect. Do something good for others, and eventually it will come full circle. I'm not sure I'd call it karma, but it would never hurt to be a better you each day.
4. Take Advantage of Resources Provided for You
This includes the syllabus, tutoring centers, optional labs, office hours and just about anything else. A lot of times professors expect you to know the answer to things, and unless you've taken the time to actually research your question, you'll just make them more mad when you ask. I know it's time-consuming to put so much effort into what might just end up having to be one course, but that good grade will be way worth it in the end.
5. Talk to Your Family
It doesn't have to be your mom, but maybe it's your little brother, your dad or even a cousin. It's always nice to shoot my sister a text asking her which picture to post on Instagram, or just to say, "Hey Smalls!" It not only makes them happy to know you're thinking of them, but makes you feel good to know the people who helped get you where you are today are always around. Family members are the only ones who will always agree with you, even when they know you're wrong. They always will be there when you just need an ear to vent to, too.
Happy studying, y'all!
