Well, it's that time of year again: midterms are upon us. Raise your hand if you've had at least one emotional breakdown this past week, while trying to meet all of your deadlines that fall within the same four-day period.
Yeah, we've all been there. Stress sucks; and when every test, paper, and group project falls around the same time, it can feel like the world is ending. However, there are ways to make this hectic period more bearable. Here are some tips to survive the next few weeks.
Pay attention to what your body needs.
If you start to feel like Leslie Knope does, ask yourself these three questions before you do anything else: Have I eaten something substantial and nutritious in the last several hours? Have I drank enough liquid recently? Have I gotten enough sleep? If the answer to one or more of these questions is no, then you should remedy that right now. Seriously. Stop reading this article and take care of yourself!
Minimize distractions.
Having access to social media, streaming services, games, and friends 24/7 is great. But not if you actually need to get work done. So, activate the "Do Not Disturb" function on your phone, and avoid Facebook and Twitter notifications. You might feel like you're living in the dark ages, (a.k.a., the early 2000s,) but you'll be amazed how much you get done.
Use a planner.
Okay, I'll admit that I'm not the best at following this; but having all of your assignments and due dates mapped out allows you prioritize what you do when. It also minimizes the chances of you forgetting something and consequently freaking out.
Don't procrastinate too much.
I added "too much" instead of just "don't procrastinate," because no matter how hard we try not to, we always do it anyway. If your professor offers to look at drafts, try and get it done by the deadline he or she sets. That way, someone can look at it, and you have time to correct it before you turn it in for real.
Reach out if you're struggling.
If you're struggling academically and/or emotionally, don't be afraid to tell the people that care about you. Yes, they are probably busy with their own stuff, but a good friend or family member will always support someone in need. Pulling away will only make the pain worse.
Have some fun.
When life gets rough, it's especially important to give yourself a treat every now and then. Get a frappuccino, see a movie, or buy one of those giant Reese's peanut butter cups. You deserve it!
This, too, shall pass.
Midterms may feel like they last an eternity, but nothing lasts forever. Soon, this period will just be a fading memory. No matter what happens, you will live, and the world will keep spinning!