1. You are your worst enemy.

When school got tough or I didn’t have the best day I found myself giving into the little negative voice in my head from time to time. I’d take that nap that I knew I shouldn’t take or procrastinate on that project that I really wasn’t interested in. Sometimes negativity got in the way of producing my best work. It gets hard to change your mindset especially when things aren’t going your way and you can’t figure out why. This is all okay because…

2. You are also your best friend.

At the end of the day, it’s up to you to pull yourself out of that dark place when things get tough. Last semester, I came to the realization that if you are feeling a certain way you can fix this. You are the one you spend the most time with and you know yourself better than anyone else. Take some time and figure out what’s working and what isn’t working and I guarantee you will get yourself through it.

3. Take time for yourself.

Whether it is an extra long shower or starting a new show on Netflix, always take time to unwind after you’re busy. Your mind needs a break after its constantly working on assignments and homework throughout the week. I’d often find myself feeling fatigued and confused on why many times. I would take the time to think about my week and realize that I took no time to sit back and recover after staying up all night to do work most nights. I started taking small breaks of relaxing activities throughout my week to split up my work load to give my body a rest.

4. Go to sleep!

Sleep is so important for your health and college students know we don’t nearly get the sleep we need on a weekly basis. I’m guilty of always going to bed late even when I don’t have to because I got so used to staying up late during the semester. I didn’t realize how much it took a toll on my body until I came home for break and had more time to sleep. Yes, sometimes there isn’t enough time in the day to get what you need to get done, but I’m going to try to limit the amount of late nights next semester to make the 8:30s a little easier.

5. Step out of your comfort zone.

This semester I had to take a lot of classes that were completely out of my territory. Being a photo major, my skills are limited in 3D mediums and some 2D like drawing and painting. These required classes I had to take involved a lot of this work. I was very intimidated at the beginning but throughout the semester I tried new things and fought myself through the uncertainty. I used the machinery in the wood shop, did ceramic work, and painted from time to time. By just pushing through and taking risks with my skills I ended up with fairly decent grades, new experiences, and confidence.

It's crazy how much you can learn from yourself when you sit back and think about it. This past semester has taught me a lot about myself and something tells me that I'm not finished learning just yet.