Ok, I get it. No one wants to be told how to live their life. Everyone's slightly stubborn about their process since it's either worked in the past or easy enough to subconsciously follow. I know life is difficult and our existential issues are distracting and complications in life are a thing, but just hear me out. Structure never hurt anyone.

1. Eat breakfast and make your lunch (and coffee)

Avoid 8 am classes at all costs so you can get up somewhat early to make your breakfast and gather your lunch for the day - if you must, take an hour out of your Sunday to go grocery shopping for a week's worth of food. The issue is most university food is lower quality, expensive, unhealthy and in extension, you are low on energy and feel groggy. Eating at University is an all around disastrous decision. There isn't a single benefit that benefits you.

2. Immerse yourself in your studies

This is simple enough but most complicated - it's tough to be consistent about going to class but the reason why you should make it class is to open discussion with your lecturer and other students. Ask questions, go to office hours, stay after and introduce yourself to your prof and ask small questions. Record important definitions and topics discussed by your instructor. Save them to your class folder on your google drive and review later. Immerse yourself in your studies and fall in love with learning. That's the key. After all, isn't that the reason you're in college?

3. Be proactive and stay organized

This is most challenging. This might require you to buy an agenda and make it yours. You may want to use Google Calendar to schedule events throughout the day. Write in it constantly, leave yourself notes, give yourself structure and you will accomplish great things. You have to prioritize and make sure you prioritize yourself above anyone. Don't spend one second putting anyone between you and your studies because it will never be worth it. If they love/care about you, they will ALWAYS understand (eventually).

4. Reward yourself

Infinitely important. You have to give yourself happiness every once in a while, otherwise, your dark cloud of responsibilities will overwhelm you greatly. Get some Whataburger as a cheat meal here and there, splurge at the mall, upgrade your phone, or spend a little too much money on Amazon.com after doing well on an exam or accomplishing a small goal. This goes a long way, every time.

5. Stay active!

Wear gym clothes to school, or bring it in your bag. After class and studying, hit a cardio sesh before you leave for your dorm or home. If you are worried that people you carpool with will feel uncomfortable with your post workout condition, bring extra deodorant or body spray. Sleep well at night, don't stay up until 3 am every night knowing you have somewhere to be at 9 am making your lunch and eating breakfast looking forward to a day where you are proactive, scheduling events constantly, studying and being academically active and rewarding yourself after a badass workout. Get at least 7 hours. Spoil yourself a little bit before you sleep and watch an episode of your favorite show. Only one show, don't binge. We all know how that goes!

Cherish yourself before anyone, and be smart about your time and you will grow in ways you would never expect.