While being a full time college student, it's hard not to stretch yourself too thin. On top of all the daily stresses that come along with school (extracurricular activities, finals, grades, scholarships, internships, etc.), we have relationships and people in our life that also demand our attention. We have friends and families; girlfriends and boyfriends; siblings and grandparents, and everyone else in our lives who we love. Often times, we find ourselves in a balancing act, trying to attend to all of the aspects of our busy lives. Yet, one of the most important mantras is often overseen; above all else, you should put yourself first.

Even if that means canceling last minute to spend all day catching up on sleep and binge-watching a season of Netflix because you're utterly exhausted, or missing a chemistry assignment because your mental health truly depends on it. You are not “giving up” or “not trying hard enough” if you truly need to take break from life. Taking care of your mind, body and soul will only help propel you forward into self-growth.

Creating a healthy lifestyle where you truly put yourself above all else will not only help you accomplish your goals, but it will also teach you how to love yourself. Self-love and acceptance is something that so many students my age struggle with. I see it all the time. But it's time to fall in love with yourself. To fully accept that you are enough, exactly the way you are, at this moment in time, and you're allowed to be selfish.

Being selfish is healthy. It's recognizing that you are a human being who has basic human needs. Why is it hard for so many of us to do things for ourselves before we do for others? Maybe it's because we were taught that a good, hardworking person makes sacrifices for our loved ones, career, and schooling. There's this idea that if we are not present, or working as hard as humanly possible, then the world will stop.

I'm here to tell you that the burden of the world is not solely on your shoulders alone. You are just one person, and you are doing a fabulous job at being YOU no matter what point you are at within your life. I say take that journalism class even though it has nothing to do with your major. Workout, meditate, do yoga, and carve out some good, old-fashioned alone time into your schedule.

It's time to realize that you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others. Feed yourself good healthy food, splurge on a pair of shoes, do activities that truly bring you joy even if they aren't considered “productive." Learn to love yourself. It's possible to love your friends, family and career while still loving yourself just as much.