We are now in the final round. The fourth quarter of the game. The last stretch of the race. We can see the finish line…oh so close yet so far! We can almost feel that summer breeze, and then we remember we still have a couple of exams to get through (cue the *awwws*)…but who said we can't have a great time during finals week?

Check out five simple tips you can incorporate to your daily routine to help you push through those last few days of the semester.

1. Listen to motivational videos or calming music when you first wake up in the morning.

It is important that we control our energy, our spirit, and our intentions for the day from the moment we wake up. Listening to soothing music or motivational tapes will not only allow us to get our mind ready for the day ahead of us, but it will also provide a sense of clarity that everything will work out in the end. We will complete all of our projects and exams, and we will come out on the other side just fine.

2. Write down positive affirmations to read throughout the day.

We all know that once our day gets started, there is an ongoing sense of action, rush, and impatience that surrounds us until the minute we go to bed. I have found that writing down positive affirmations or quotes that encourage you to be patient, remain persistent, and stay positive maintain the high spirits of your day—allowing you to carry an aura of excitement and tranquility.

Here are some quotes I love to read throughout my day:

"There are no shortcuts to any place worth going." – Beverly Silla

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase." – Martin Luther King, Jr.

"If you're always racing to the next moment, what happens to the one you're in?" – Zig Ziglar

"You may not be there yet but you're closer than you were yesterday." - Unknown

"Don't make excuses for why you can't get it done. Focus on all the reasons why you must make it happen." – Ralph Marston

"Fall in love with the process and the results will come." – Eric Thomas

3. Eat nutrient-filled meals.

Whether its breakfast, lunch, or dinner, making sure you are consuming nutritious foods throughout your week is extremely important. Not only will these meals allow you to recharge your body, but it will also give your mind the fuel necessary to focus on your assignments, projects, and exams. As Les Brown once said, "Remember, your body is the only vehicle we have to carry us through this thing called life."

4. Create a to-do list.

Writing down all of the things that need to get done (with deadlines) will allow you to hold yourself accountable throughout your week. From serving as a reminder to helping you see your progress throughout your week, having a to-do lists has the dual purpose of keeping you on track and recognizing your advancements as the week unfolds.

5. Meditate before you go to bed.

This is a tip I am continuously working on mastering but is one that I have found to be extremely helpful (especially at times where it seems like there are 1,001 things to get done). Focusing on your breathing, being present in the moment, and allowing yourself to just "be" will not only allow you to clear your mind, but it will also give your body the opportunity to relax for a good night's sleep.

With that being said, you are so close to the finish line. Don't give up, finish strong…you got this!