Time management is always something I’ve been horrible at. Part of this problem comes from my inability to get my priorities in order. I would rather hang out with my friends then write that essay, but that comes with a price. I’ve found myself in this never-ending cycle of trying to figure out what to sacrifice in order to keep myself going.

Do I sacrifice my social life in order to get work done? Do I sacrifice my grades so I can build even stronger relationships with the amazing people I’ve met? Do I sacrifice sleep and my general health so I can accomplish both of these?

The problem is, I’m a sophomore in college. I don’t have the answers. I, nor anyone else, ever will. But as I’m writing this, I’m extremely exhausted. I don’t know if it’s the sophomore slump talking, or the fact that I’ve worn myself too thin, but I’m just tired. Today is one of those days where I just wish I was at home cuddling with my dogs without a care in the world, but the reality is that I’m looking at a long day (and most likely a long night) ahead.

Trying to find that balance between work and pleasure will always be a struggle. I love my friends, and I’m happiest when I’m with them. I’m grateful for all the amazing memories I have and will continue to make with them, but I’m at school for a reason. At the same time, though, I shouldn’t have to have this constant inner debate with myself of what to choose between.

To me, it shouldn’t have to feel like I’m sacrificing anything, but it’s almost like I’m living up to certain standards. Standards that I didn’t set, and I didn’t even agree to.

I don’t have to be perfect. I don’t have to go on every outing, partake in every event, or constantly be with people all the time. Not every single essay or quiz has to be perfect, and somedays the dark circles under my eyes are much more noticeable then others, but that’s ok.

I’m 19. I don’t have to have everything figured out. I can mess up, I can look like a mess, and I can sometimes be grumpy. Many will label my generation as lazy, with no work ethic and no passion for anything, but I don’t think that could be any more wrong. We live in a completely different society, and as young adults, we just shouldn’t have everything figured out yet.

It’s okay to be tired. It’s okay to make some poor choices, because you live and you learn. Making mistakes and having different experiences is a part of life. So, watch a movie with your friends even though you have an essay due tomorrow, or vice versa and write the essay instead of hang out with your friends, because either option can be legitimate. Being fully comfortable with the choices you make will ensure that you don’t actually sacrifice anything and you just live your life.