Every college student knows what stress is, and most people can identify with some form of anxiety. I don't talk about my anxiety much. I usually keep to myself, but anyone who knows me knows I do every one of these things on a daily basis. I'm sure you can identify.
1. Buying groceries is a listed task.
I have to organize everything in my basket according to shape, area of store, and how it will go in the bag.
2. Cleaning isn't a chore, it's a hobby.
Most people despise cleaning baseboards and toilets, but cleaning calms my nerves and makes me feel organized.
3. My desk is centered and ergonomically designed.
Someone moves something on my desk, and I have to immediately fix it, otherwise my whole operation is off task.
4. I'm calm and collected or I'm freaking out and running around like a chicken with my head cut off.
I don't know what the happy medium is. Good news is, either way I get the job done.
5. My work ethic is always 110 percent.
Because I have to get things done before I can relax, it means I will always put in my best effort, even if I am not completely sure what I'm doing. I'll try my hardest.
6. The little things mean the most.
Little things stress me out, like when I buy the wrong brand or I can't get something to zip right. It makes my nose tingle and my eye water, but it also means a "thank you" or "I appreciate it" goes a long way.
7. My planner is a beast, and my lists exceed one sheet of paper.
I have to write everything down. Period. If I don't I constantly think about the things I need to do for the day, I'm stressing that I'm forgetting something.
8. My friends are a special breed.
Being able to live with me as a friend means you can handle every fidget, cry, freak out, and early-morning cleaning session.
It's an everyday struggle to live with anxiety, and if you know someone who is obsessed with cleaning, organizing is a must, and manages their desk too much—cut them some slack—they appreciate your friendship more than you probably realize.