College is, without a doubt, the most trying time in any young adult’s life. (Yes, you are considered a legal adult.) From bills, tuition fees, working full time or part time, failing at everything at least once, relationships woes, social circles, and feeling like the whole world is against you, it’s no wonder that young adults form bad habits to cope with stress. I don’t remember there being elective in school that taught you how to change a tire, balance a checkbook, or make a budget. This article is for those of us who are forced to make such big decisions on our own at a young age.
Check out my tips on how to stress less in college:
First things first: don’t let stress consume you because after all, things could be much worse. Find something to do that will help relieve your stress, and once you find that thing, set time apart from your busy schedule to enjoy yourself. This is very important in keeping yourself in a healthy state of mind.
Secondly, never bite off more than you can chew. Twenty-two credit hours? Does that really sound like a good idea? Signing a lease that you can’t afford? Does that really sound like a brilliant idea? Going out every weekend when your grades suck? Really? Think twice about your big decisions by weighing out your pros and cons—this will save you thousands of dollars!
It’s okay to fail—not everyone is a perfect 4.0 college athlete student at an Ivy League school. It is 100 percent okay to fail at something during your undergrad, and it will happen at least once. A lot of people never bother with pursuing a collegiate degree so, the fact you are where you are and trying puts you above a good percentage of people in the world. If you fail, try again. If you fail again, try again. Success comes to those who work hard.
Avoid social media during exams. Social media is a huge distraction for those of you who are on it. Do yourself a favor and allow a friend to change your passwords until your busiest week is over; you’ll be a lot more productive without it.
Don’t let work get in the way of your college experience. When money doesn’t grow on trees for you—it’s hard to not become a workaholic—but do not let that consume your world. Take some time to enjoy being in college or you will end up resenting your job and college altogether.
Discipline yourself—set standards, goals and deadlines for things from yourself. I find my life is more organized and less stressful when I set my own due dates for things as opposed to my professors, boss, or colleagues. By staying ahead of the game at all times, you will create more free time for yourself then waiting until the night before.
Lastly, take care of yourself. For those of you constantly caring for others—take a moment every day to do something for yourself. At such a young age, it’s easy to be consumed in someone else’s happiness as opposed to your own.
Please let this article serve as a reminder that you are not alone and that everyone is facing a battle throughout their undergraduate career. If you find yourself drowning in stress, seek help from friends, family, or professionals from your school.
