You have probably slept for a total of about 8 hours in the last week, can count how many things you’ve eaten in the last week on one hand, and probably have to take off both shoes to count how many hours of homework you have done as well as how much you have left.

But you can also say that half of the work you have to do, isn’t your own. It’s probably helping someone out with an event, giving someone a ride, helping others with assignments, or just being there for someone else. You are the person that refuses to say no. If someone says “Hey I need someone to go to this meeting” you are probably the first person to raise their hand even though you have four exams, two projects, 3 papers, and haven’t showered in 3 days.

You’ll still raise your hand, offer to go, and then stress about how you are going to get everything done. I am here to tell you that I can relate. It’s who you are and that it’s okay. I’m not telling you to change, I’m just telling you to take care of yourself. There are going to be those times in your life where you don’t want to do anything but lay in bed for the day. There are going to be those people who take advantage of you but you will give them chance after chance. That’s okay. But you need to take care of yourself first, before worrying about them.

Take at least twenty minutes a day, if not more, and just do something for you. Take a long, hot shower or lay in bed and watch a movie or television episode. Take this time to paint your nails, read a book (NOT A TEXTBOOK), eat a snack, or anything that is for YOU.

Make sure to eat enough. I know you have hours upon hours of work to do, but just think, you can’t get that work done if you are passed out on the floor from low blood sugar. I cannot stress how important it is to get enough nutrients into your body.

Sleep, Sleep, Sleep, and more Sleep. If you can count how many hours you have slept in the last seven days on two hands, put this article down and take a nap. College students need about eight or nine hours of sleep a night, most get five to six hours of sleep a night. I understand sometimes it is hard, but it is so important to try.

It’s okay to be selfish sometimes. If someone is treating you poorly, stand up for yourself. If someone asks you to help them with something, and you don’t have time, say no. It’s okay. College is the time to be selfish. You are paying thousands of dollars to get this education. Do it on your own terms. Don’t deal with things that you don’t like. You can get an education, have fun, and be happy all at the same time.