In College, I've Learned How To Deal With Feeling Overwhelmed | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

In College, I've Learned How To Deal With Feeling Overwhelmed

Fake it 'til you make it.

2261
In College, I've Learned How To Deal With Feeling Overwhelmed
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Feeling overwhelmed in college is pretty much a weekly occurrence. Professors might seem like they forget that, in addition to their class, you're probably taking at least 4 or 5 other classes. While the school work does definitely make up a large part of the overwhelming nature of college, figuring out life, in general, is also incredibly nerve-racking.

However, there are ways that I have found to keep the anxiety at bay and help you get started on all the stuff there is to do when really all I feel like doing is taking a nap and ignoring the world.

I make lists for everything. Sometimes I'll end up writing down the same list 2 or 3 times when I don't have the original with me because I just need to see all my tasks written down in words in order to find a place to start.

Often, there are too many things just floating around in my brain that I find it hard to focus on an individual task instead of procrastinating. Also, nothing beats the satisfaction you'll feel when you can finally cross an item off.

As I mentioned earlier, don't wait until the last minute to start something. Teachers probably have been telling you this since elementary school, but it deserves being repeated. It's so easy to get lost in complaining about an assignment and feel like you're working on it instead of actually sitting down and working on it.

This applies to real-life situations as well. You can talk about networking and getting internships until you're blue in the face- none of these things will actually happen until you put in the time to meet people and put yourself out there. I definitely know that this is easier said than done. I'm not a fan of doing either of these things, but I know that I have to.

After a lot of practice, I've found myself doing this more often and it makes me feel a little more prepared for the real world.

Most importantly, don't doubt yourself. If you constantly keep thinking that something is going to be so difficult, you're going to talk yourself into thinking that you're going to fail. My personal favorite way to avoid this is by employing the phrase "everything's fine."

Anyone who knows me knows that this is basically my catchphrase and that it keeps me going when things get crazy. I just repeat this until I muster up the confidence to take on whatever life is throwing at me. In other words, fake it 'til you make it.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
kid
Janko Ferlic
Do as I say, not as I do.

Your eyes widen in horror as you stare at your phone. Beads of sweat begin to saturate your palm as your fingers tremble in fear. The illuminated screen reads, "Missed Call: Mom."

Growing up with strict parents, you learn that a few things go unsaid. Manners are everything. Never talk back. Do as you're told without question. Most importantly, you develop a system and catch on to these quirks that strict parents have so that you can play their game and do what you want.

Keep Reading...Show less
friends
tv.com

"Friends" maybe didn’t have everything right or realistic all the time, but they did have enough episodes to create countless reaction GIFs and enough awesomeness to create, well, the legacy they did. Something else that is timeless, a little rough, but memorable? Living away from the comforts of home. Whether you have an apartment, a dorm, your first house, or some sort of residence that is not the house you grew up in, I’m sure you can relate to most of these!

Keep Reading...Show less
man working on a laptop
Pexels

There is nothing quite like family.

Family is kinda like that one ex that you always find yourself running back to (except without all the regret and the angsty breakup texts that come along with it).

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

11 Things You Think About During Class

Some of your best ideas come through boredom.

1042
bored kid
Google Images

No matter how long your class is, there's always time for the mind to wander. Much like taking a shower or trying to fall asleep, sitting in a classroom can be a time when you get some of your best ideas. But, more than likely, you're probably just trying to mentally cope with listening to a boring lecturer drone on and on. Perhaps some of the following Aristotle-esque thoughts have popped into your head during class.

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

Advice To Live By As Told By Bob's Burgers

The Belchers hold the key to a better life.

1417
Bob's Burgers
Adult Swim

Bob's Burgers is arguably one of the best and most well-written shows on tv today. That, and it's just plain hilarious. From Louise's crazy antics to Tina's deadpan self-confidence, whether they are planning ways to take over school or craft better burgers, the Belchers know how to have fun. They may not be anywhere close to organized or put together, but they do offer up some wise words once and awhile.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments