The past three weeks have been absolutely crazy. I mean college life is always busy, with classes, my job, and trying to maintain a social life. In the past, I had the bad habit of letting school completely take over my life, leaving time for myself, my hobbies, etc. in the backseat. However in the last year I've been trying a different approach. Instead of stressing myself out and not allowing breaks amidst preparations for an exam, I stop for some "me" time. I don't have perfect study habits , but since I have tried this method I have not only done better in school but I'm also in a better mood.
Here are a few suggestions for how you can keep your first priority you amidst the stresses of life!
1
Develop Your Hobbies
Maybe you like to sing, draw, or play guitar; whatever it may be, don't let the stresses in your life force you to drop what you love doing. Maybe your hobby isn't complicated, maybe you just like going for walks outside with your dog, but make sure to let yourself do that. There will always be stress in life, the best way to relieve some of that is to do doing something you love. It is just as important, if not more, than careers, school, etc.
2
Lean on Your Friends and Family
I think the best thing that you can remember when you're overwhelmed and having a frustrating week is that your family and friends are always there for you, and you should make sure to use those relationships. Frequently I find that talking out my problems and stresses helps so much, even if it doesn't totally fix the problem. My mom always uses the expression, "you are not an island" and I think it really rings true in the case of problems and stress, use your friends and family, don't try to go it alone.
3
Stay Physically Active
In high school I was always in organized sports, I was getting a good workout in everyday without even thinking about it. However, when I got to college it was up to me. At the end of freshman year I finally decided to make a lifestyle change; I started eating healthier, and getting in a workout at least six days a week. This absolutely changed my life. At first working out was a chore, I disliked getting out of bed early to go for a run or kick box. However after a few months it became a sort of ritual/ therapy, I took out my stress on the treadmill and the elliptical. My physical and mental health improved in strides.
4
Know when You Need a Break
If you're like me, sometimes you take on way too much. Your brain gets that fuzzy feeling, you don't know what to start with, and you really just need to take a break. When you get that feeling, Take. that. break. Obviously if you have a deadline maybe it can't be a long break, but sit down for 5 or 10 minutes and breathe. You're never going to do quality work if you are overwhelmed, so take that time to put things into perspective and gather your thoughts. If you need some suggestions for what to do with that break, check out Help Guide's relaxation techniques.
5
If you Dress Well you'll Feel Well
Maybe this isn't the case for everyone, however, when I pick out my outfit in the morning and feel good about how I look, I just feel better in general. When I opt for a pair of jeans rather than sweats I feel dressed and ready to go, prepared for my day. If you have trouble picking out outfits and constantly feel like you never have anything in your closet, make sure to check out GlamOutfit. GlamOutfit virtually keeps track of your closet and allows you to plan out you outfits when you might have just chosen the sweats.
xx,
Seff
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