It's midterms week - right about the time that I would usually plan a road trip to visit my friends in Champaign and distract myself from everything school related. In years past, avoiding priorities was something I considered myself very skilled at. This quarter, I'm trying something different.
Instead of running from my stress and cramming in a few hours of minimal studying, I've decided to stay put in Chicago for this round of midterms. My classes this quarter have not been nearly as overwhelming as others I've taken before, so in a way, I feel confident and prepared to tackle these exams. At this time of the year, it almost feels natural to start planning my trips so that I can relieve a little stress. As difficult as it has been to take charge and force myself to focus, I am proud of the decisions I am making as a student.
Instead of stuDYING this quarter, I finally feel like I am thriving. Simple organization and prioritization has really helped me to stay on top of my responsibilities and focus on my tasks at hand. I also feel that, by working to shift my inner-thoughts about self-deprivation, I've been continuing to grow as a student. At one time, I would have thought that, because I stayed home to study for midterm exams, I was depriving myself an entire weekend (or two) of fun with my friends. Now, I no longer view this as depriving myself. The grades that I have been receiving have made taking off a weekend from going out very rewarding. This comes in complete contrast to every other article in my "StuDYING for Midterms" series, but I am starting to accept and enjoy this new change.
Oh, and don't worry. I'll be sure to get my next road trip in before finals.