Well, it's that time of the year again. That time when you, for some reason, forget everything you've ever learned and have to reteach it to yourself. That time when you learnt that three hours of sleep is all you really need to be a functioning human adult. That time when up is down, down is up, and nothing makes sense and everything hurts. It's finals time, and the frenzy of papers, projects, and mental breakdowns is on the horizon. Before everything starts spiraling out of control and your vision is blocked by responsibilities and deadlines, take a minute to be realistic about your plans for surviving finals week before a much needed holiday break. Here are a few things you need to remember during finals week:
1. Grades do not define you.
I'm a firm believer that the best thing you can ever do in life is try your best. If your best earns you an A+++, great. If your best earns you a C-, amazing. Do work that makes you proud and study at a pace. Don't let a test score make you nervous.
2. Take care of yourself.
Make sure you get sleep. I understand that sometimes there just simply aren't enough hours in the day, but your well-being comes first. Check in with yourself every once in a while and see how you're doing. Don't ignore your personal calls for help.
3. Treat yo self.
Take a break every once in a while. Watch a quick YouTube video or dance your heart out to "Sorry" by Justin Bieber, because you know you want to.
4. Your mom is still going to love you even if you don't get an A+.
You're at an amazing university getting a higher education and succeeding in your own way. Everyone is proud of you, so be proud of yourself and cut yourself a break every now and then. Nobody is perfect.
5. The mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell.
And don't you dare forget it.
6. Breathing is essential to life.
Take a deep breath. Inhale, exhale. Inhale, exhale. Everything is going to work out. That paper is going to get written. That project is going to get done. That book is going to get read. You can do it with a little help from you lungs.
7. Go healthy.
I know we all just want to eat Chipotle for every meal and order Jimmy Johns to the library, but rethink those purchases this time around. You're going to feel better if you keep it healthy and not eat pizza every time you get stressed. Or bored.
8. Asking for help isn't a weakness.
Your professors are your best resource! If you need help studying or have questions about the class, go to your professor. They aren't going to judge you for being inquisitive and proactive.
9. Go see the sun every once in a while.
Get some fresh air. Don't let the florescent lighting in the library be the only light you see for 72 hours. A little fresh air will do your brain some good.
10. You have a month of relaxation coming.
This is the final stretch! Do your best and hang in there until holiday break! At the end of the day, you're more than a percentage, and there's always next semester.
Good luck on finals, and may the curve be ever in your favor!
