It's that time of year again where we start overthinking, getting stressed out, forgetting assignments and eating out at 1 AM. However, it's also that time of year where you can strive to do and be better than you were last semester. If you've set that new years resolution around your spring semester and this is your one resolution you don't want to give up on, KEEP READING! Here are five ways to get through your spring semester and finish better than you ever thought you could.

1. Stay motivated.

Don't let your roommate distract you and don't become lazy! You know what you can handle so keep pushing yourself through the semester. I understand that Cookout at 10:30 PM sounds amazing but that paper is due at 11:59 PM and you have one sentence wrote. Don't give into all those little temptations that come your way during the semester. Do everything it takes to get that 4.0 and don't settle for less. Remember what assignments you have due at night and don't binge watch Netflix until they're done. Don't be afraid to stay in on a Saturday night if it means passing that exam on Monday morning.

2. Be a better you.

You may be a great person already, however, try to be the best you that you can possibly be. Once you drop those toxic people from your life and stay close to the ones who matter you can put forth the best you. Nothing should stand in the way of you and what you know is best. It doesn't take much at all to be a better person! Smile more, compliment others, volunteer at local shelter and try to make the best of every little thing that is thrown your way. Start everyday with a prayer and look at the positive things in life not the negative. Forget about those petty people and things that come your way. Trust me, the smaller your circle is the better off you will be.

3. Be healthier.

New year, new body, is that your resolution? Stop those 1 AM runs to Taco Bell or Cookout and start eating broccoli. Try to drink a gallon of water a day and meal prep every week. Make time to eat a healthy salad instead of a Cookout tray and maybe, just maybe you won't look like a slug by the time summer comes around. Try to hit the gym everyday to get at least 30 minutes of cardio in. If that doesn't work try every other day. I know we're all busy with the rush of classes, work and internships, however, you need SLEEP. Don't stay up until 4 AM watching Netflix and eating pizza. Go to sleep by 11:30 PM and wake up early to eat a good breakfast. It'll make you feel and look better!

4. Call home.

I know we were all so excited to move out and go to college but call home! Your mom, dad and siblings miss you. I know most of us say we don't have time, however, take that five minutes it takes you to walk to class to call. When you get stressed out and wonder what your mom would do call her and ask. When you can't deal with your roommate call and vent to your mom she will calm you down. If you need to know what's wrong with your car call your dad not that guy you met at last nights party, your dad will love it. And when you feel like goofing off and being a kid again call your sibling older or younger they'll love that you even thought about them.

5. Go to the animal shelter.

I know this is kind of out there and some people may not like pets. However, if you are a pet lover especially dogs take one day out of the week and go to the animal shelter. Playing with the dogs won't only make you feel better but those dogs will be so excited to get out of those kennels. Playing with dogs and getting the love from them will release some of the stress that you may have built up. If you live in an apartment and can have pets adopt the dog that you bond with. Having that love from a dog every night will make you feel 100 times better!

TRUST ME...