Dear reader, if you are anything like me, you are probably currently reading this on your phone between classes or maybe waiting not-so-patiently in line to order your coffee before the club meeting. If you are either one of these currently or you can relate in any way, there is a great possibility that you are multitasking aficionado trying to balance classes, extracurricular, and social life. To find a balance with all of your responsibilities, you most likely religiously check your Google Calendar or agenda to find a way to order the chaotic everyday responsibilities of life.

If you are anything like me, it is hard to not get overly involved, because your passions may spread across a wide range of topics. Whether it is volunteering or writing or maybe even a sport, it is definitely a challenge to jam-pack 30 hours of activities in just 24 hours in a day. However, in my experience, I have seen the detriments of filling your schedule with everything and anything you could possibly think of with little time for yourself.

First of all, remember prioritizing what truly is important to you. Find the balance between having résumé driven activities and activities you truly enjoy. Maybe that internship or research position may look really nice when applying to jobs, but if you don’t have a connection to the activity, it will ultimately become a time-waster. Remember, for every activity you say yes to, there is at least one thing you are saying no to.

Although it might be extremely rewarding serving others and giving back through your organizations, it must also be paramount to relax and refresh. I know, some of you all may have grimaced or even smirked when you read “relax,” but making my mental and physical health a priority, is the best gift you can give to yourself. Whatever relaxing means to you, include that as a part of your day.

It is pretty easy to get swept away with the expectations of doing the most and filling your schedule with all the things you really want to get involved in, but there also must be time to make memories with your friends and go on crazy adventures. College is only four years, so make the most of every second. My biggest advice? Embrace the motto of work hard, play harder to maintain the crucial balance.