With spring semester in full swing or just about to start, most of us are dreading the first few weeks of getting in the habit of doing schoolwork again. Adjustments can be difficult and often take some time.
Here are 8 ways to make it a little easier on yourself:
1. Get up earlier than last semester.
If your classes are scheduled in the morning, great! But if not, getting up at a reasonable time and being productive instead of staying under your sheets 'til your 2 P.M. class will make your workload at night significantly lighter.
2. Destress in your own ways.
Whether it's a lifting sesh, a yoga class, reading, listening to music, or taking a quick nap...anything that will help you destress is important to include in your daily routine or at least a few times a week!
3. Pace yourself.
Don't wait until the last second to do everything on your list, but also, try not to take on too many things at once! Find a pace that works best for you and stick to it.
4. Write a weekly schedule.
This might be the most underrated way to stay organized, get your things done, and decrease your stress levels. Knowing exactly what you want to accomplish each day will motivate you to get up and going!
5. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Asking for help doesn't mean you're incapable, it means you're willing to be better and do better. Tutoring, office hours, extra time in the library studying with a friend, or simply asking for clarification about a complicated topic during class will make the material in your difficult classes much easier to grasp.
6. Try your best...actually.
Most of us begin each semester with the infamous saying "I'm actually gonna try really hard this time." Do we usually follow through with this? Not really. We start missing classes, copying notes off of a friend, and half-assing our homework. What if we actually tried our best? Give it a shot and see what the rewards are (even if that means missing a Thursday night out).
7. Look for good opportunities and run with them.
Don't sit back and watch everyone else jump on summer jobs, internships, clubs, and other school activities that will pay off later. Instead, take a shot yourself. Apply for that internship you've always wanted, and join that club that matches your major and interests.
8. Treat your body and mind right.
Don't forget what's most important... your own well-being. Give yourself time to check in mentally and physically. Eat healthily and exercise— even meditating before bed or early in the morning is a great way to check and maintain your mental health.
