So you are stressed. Like stressed to the max. If there was a maximum level of stress you could feel you’re the tea-kettle screaming on the stove.
I’m telling you to breathe.
When I changed my major from Elementary Education to English Education I knew it would be a major work load change. I would go from maybe reading one novel to reading 10 or more a semester (not exaggerating). I would go from writing three papers a semester to close to 12. When it came to school, I would be 100% overwhelmed. So did this happen to me?
Yes.
But last semester I realized something crucial to how to approach life. You have to organize it. I don’t mean go to TJMaxx and buy a planner, some cute sticky notes, and highlighters to make your weeks seem not so dreary. Although, I'm not knocking it because I too love my planner and 10/10 suggest getting one! But compartmentalize your life. Yes, you are a student. But you are also a daughter, a friend, a sister, a girlfriend, a twenty-something, the list could go on. Being a student is only one part of your life. Yes, it seems that “student” is your #1 label. Without studying you may fail your exam. Without getting good grades you’ll lose your scholarships. Without college you may not get your dream job. Without your dream job you’re not sure where your life will go… And what if it did go away?
You’re still a daughter. You’re still a friend. You’re still a sister. You’re still a girlfriend. You’re still an amazing and capable human.
So tonight, when you’re drowning in essays, projects, and chapters to read. Take a deep breath. Step away. Call your mom or dad. Grab a coffee with your best friend. Go out with your boyfriend. Compartmentalize and take a break. You have to step away. Otherwise, you'll be so anxiety ridden by the mountains of work that you won't begin to climb. Those essays, projects, and chapters to read will be there when you get back. I promise, making a “C” on a paper will nowhere amount to the days and nights missed with your family and friends. Spending time with your people will clear your head and lighten your heart. You can go back to stressing tomorrow.
