It's that time of year again.
Our hearts are yearning for Thanksgiving turkey with gravy and the last thing we want to do is meet with our group project members or start the most important assignments of the semester.
Pretty convenient that these final assessments come when all our motivational fuel has been on low for the past few weeks with the gas light blinking as a reminder that we are soon to be dead with no gas station in sight and our only refuel option is cheap coffee, right?
At a time when we serious contemplate giving up and staying in bed or moving to another country to escape our responsibilities, I think we all need to be reminded of our inner abilities and strength.
We got this.
It's the same battle every semester, and we always get through it. However, if you need some tips and tricks to help you get through, here are five steps to keep your sanity.
1. Surround yourself with the right people
“Ann, you are such a good friend, you’re a beautiful, talented, brilliant, powerful musk-ox. Thank you, ox.” -Leslie Knope: The perky powerhouse
I would not be where I am today without my friends. Specifically, my fellow classmates. I have the perfect combination of motivation, challenge, inspiration, and complaining from my group. Find your circle that will allow you to complain, but more importantly remind you of your greatness and push you to keep moving. It's so important to step back, through your pride out the window, and let your buddies know, "I need help."
2. Don't feel bad for needing a nap
“When I get bummed out, I take my shirt off because the bad feelings make me feel sweaty.”-Andy Dwyer: The lovable lad
You need to make sure you leave time for YOU. If you need a nap, take it. If you need to go workout, go. If you need to watch an episode of the office, watch it. You will never be able to give your all in anything if you don't leave time to refuel and reset. Allowing your brain some time to think about something other than your terrifying responsibilities will always be worth it. And it's nothing to feel guilty about. However, you need to be careful to not get too caught up in your alone time. Otherwise, you'll find yourself up until 3 a.m. finishing last minute homework which defeats the purpose.
3. Stay on track, one goal at time
“Never half-ass two things. Whole-ass one thing."-Ron Swanson: The deadpan boss
Write down your tasks and goals, working one at a time! It can be daunting to sit and think about all the crap you need to get done by tomorrow. Instead of allowing your brain to be filled with anxiety, write down each task you need to accomplish. This will allow your head to become more organized and you will never find a more satisfying feeling than crossing off each task.
4. Think happy thoughts!
"Everything is amazing. Today is perfect. And I love you."-Chris Traeger: The eternal optimist
Try not to focus all your attention on how much it blows to be a college student before finals. Instead, try and think about how great that that pumpkin pie is going to taste. You have to believe in yourself and know that you are a rockstar that will absolutely get things done.
5. Don't forget to have some fun
“Sometimes you gotta work a little, so you can ball a lot.”-Tom Haverford: The freshest
Need I say any more? Best of luck to you all, you got this. It will soon all be over and you can chug all the egg nog you want!
