Congratulations, you are back at school and the spring semester has officially begun! Sylly week is over, and you are probably feeling suddenly bombarded with new reading assignments and the pressing need to get your textbooks.
It's very rare or almost never that I ease back into school gradually. At least for me, I've always been thrown head first into the ever-mundane vortex of going to class, doing homework, maintaining my GPA and attempting to fit a social life into my schedule.
I've come to realize that as much as I love school, I get stressed out very easily. It's way too hard trying to manage it all and finding a balance between everything has proven to be a daunting task since high school.
Nevertheless, there is hope. I find that taking a step back and remaining grounded in the fact that it's just school is really important. I value my education, getting good grades and being a successful student, but the reality is that it's not a life or death situation.
College is too short to spend your time worrying about insignificant things that simply won't matter ten years from now. You are worth it. You are successful. You will find a job. You will get what you want out of life and so much more.
Find your stress-reliever. Whether it's going to the gym for an hour, relaxing with a book (not a textbook), or just having a hangout session with friends, if you are able to find a way to break out of school mode for a little while, it feels really good.
Life is hard enough, and the stresses of school don't make it any better. We live in a society that is constantly encouraging us to reach the next level, get the highest grade, the best job, etc. And while progress is great, it's important to be healthy about reaching your goals and striving for new opportunities.
Pulling all-nighters and loading up on caffeinated beverages to stay awake (thank you, Starbucks) may be viewed as completely normal behaviors in college, but the reality is that it's not a healthy lifestyle.
Taking care of our minds, sleeping regularly, eating a well-balanced diet and giving yourself time to breathe is absolutely essential in this day and age. The truth is, we aren't getting any younger.
College is only four years and while that may seem like a long time, I promise wholeheartedly that it's not. Time flies. Enjoy the time that you have been given to further your education, but don't forget to step back and breathe once in a while.
Find a hobby, a sport, an activity or a club that puts your mind at ease and keeps you grounded in what truly matters. I promise you won't regret it.
