It’s getting to that point in the semester, for me at least, where I am so ready to be done with school and start summer vacation. Classes can be really stressful, and it’s important that we all make a little time for ourselves to keep us from going crazy. Self-care has been a pretty popular topic these days and sounds great, but it seems like in order to do it properly, you need to put your life on hold. Here are some tips to lift your mood and clear your head while not sacrificing other things to do it.

1. Make your bed

Do it as soon as you wake up, it helps build an organized and productive foundation to start your day.

2. Shower

I usually love a good night shower, but I've found that showering right away in the morning not only wakes you up, but helps you to feel more refreshed as well.

3. Have a decent breakfast

Whether that means waking up a few minutes early or preparing it the night before, it's no joke that it's the most important meal of the day.

4. Call someone

It always feels so much more genuine than just sending a quick Snapchat or text.

5. Turn off your notifications

This seriously changed my life, I spend way less time on my phone and I've become way more productive, I actually forget to check it sometimes now.

6. Exercise

It doesn't have to be a major gym session, just something that will get your endorphins going.

7. Read (for pleasure)

This will give you a nice break from studying that's something other than staring mindlessly at your phone or laptop.

8. Make a to-do list and stick to it

Writing all that you have to do down will help you organize your day, it's also super satisfying to cross off everything you accomplish.

9. Plan out your week

Organizing your time beforehand will prevent you from scrambling at the last minute or missing something important.

10. Listen to music

Not just for walking to class, a few good songs can really calm you down and make you feel a whole lot better.