Why are we always rushing? As college students we sprint from class to class, grabbing food on the go and sipping coffee from disposable cups just to keep ourselves awake long enough to finish our homework so we can go to bed. Is this any way to live? Why must we rush everything and only deliver half-hearted efforts? Why can’t we put our time and energies into one project that we really care about? I think there are some simple ways in which we can slow down our lives, but it will take effort on our part.

Take an actual weekend.

I don’t think I can remember the last time I had an actual weekend. For college students, weekends mean “An aircraft carrier of homework that I can take my time doing.” Guess what? That’s not a weekend! Imagine actually having a free weekend? That’s two days of having to do only what you want to do! It’s harder for us college students to make that happen, but it is possible. Most of the time I have homework on weekends because I am too lazy to do it throughout the week. But if I did do it, I would have free weekends. Take my advice apply yourself a little more during the week so you don’t have to during the weekend.

Sit down when eating.

One rule I have for myself is to always sit down when I’m eating. I know this sounds weird, but hear me out. Even if I get food to go, I always take it somewhere peaceful and sit down to enjoy my meal. I never eat while walking or driving. By forcing yourself to sit down, you avoid all other distractions and simply focus on enjoying the meal before you. This way, for at least 10-20 minutes you do not have to focus on class, homework, or anything hectic. Just you and your food.

Don’t try to be perfect at everything.

This is always hard to say rather than do because who doesn’t want to be great at everything? And while in college, we feel the pressure to ace every class, impress every person (especially potential employers) maintain perfect relationships. However, it is impossible to be great at everything. Personally, I think peace of mind is far more valuable than professional kudos. Therefore, if you want life to slow down and keep your head above water, invest in what really matters. Spend time with the people you care about and who care about you. Pursue the internships that actually interest you, go home when you need to, watch your favorite show on Netflix when you need to. Life will happen. But why not let it happen at its own speed?