Let's just say it, it's hell week. You probably have exams everyday of the week, you're stressed out and the only comfort you have is the thought of the world ending before you sit down to take the test. BREATHE, we've all been there! Finals suck but you can't spread yourself out too thin. There are a few tips and tricks to make this week more bearable.
1. Put the phone away!
Silence your phone when you are in study mode or put it away in a drawer, eliminate all distractions. Delete all social media apps and/or games until finals are done, at least if you do give into temptation there is nothing to look at or do when you open your phone.
2. Go outside
During a break take a walk instead of staying in the same stuffy room. Stretch your legs, breathe in some fresh air, and maybe strike up a conversation with someone. It gives your brain and eyes a break from staring at a screen or book and you can get a little exercise in the meantime.
3. Talk to someone
If the stress becomes unbearable or you're having panic or anxiety attacks don't keep it to yourself. Talk to someone, whether it its in person or on the phone (no texting). Sometimes you need to some encouragement in difficult times like these, or just to vent about everything clouding your noggin.
4. Prepare the day before
Instead of stuffing everything in your bag or pockets the morning of the final, only adding more stress before the big test, have everything ready the day before. Pack a sweater (in case the room is cold), water, extra pens/pencils, and some candy if you need a little pick-me-up.
5. Don't eat junk food
Don't grab a bag of chip or soda for a quick lunch. These greasy sugary foods will only make you feel more tired than you probably already are. Instead, eat some fruit, make a sandwich, and snack on some veggies. A meal that's high in protein will keep you on your toes during a final, rather than a short sugar watch.
6. Sleep
Give yourself AT LEAST 6 hours of sleep. You don't want to be falling asleep during your final or getting distracted by trying to keep yourself awake. You need all the energy you can get to be focused on your test.
7. No early celebrations
Don't celebrate early. If you finish a final and don't have your next one for the next 2 days, don't go out and party. Use this off day as an advantage to prep for any other exam you have left.
8. When you do finish CELEBRATE!
Finals are done, and life is good! Let the vacation begin! After all the hours you put into preparing for the test you can finally let loose. No more anxiety, no more cramming, just blissful sleep and guiltless partying. So go out and get a drink, have some fun with your friends, you deserve it!
