I know the feeling: cringing every time you set your alarm, wincing whenever you look at your iCal, and grimacing any time you can’t find a seat in McLennan (aka every time). These signs can only mean one thing: exam season is here. Many people would argue that winter is the worst season in Montreal, but those people have surely never experienced the brutality of an exam season at McGill. Whether this is the second exam period of your life or the last one of your university career, it’s probably going to suck and you’re probably reading this right now as procrastination. That was a good call, though, because here are 12 simple things you can do right now to make your finals season suck just a little bit less:
1.Call your mom, sibling, significant other, or hometown homies.
Everyone has that one person who knows how to make them smile no matter what. Take a break from your books and dial their digits.
2.Make dinner plans with friends.
A reservation at Lola Rosa will have you giddy for nachos all day. It’s a proven fact that a little giddiness never hurt anyone suffering from exam stress.
3.Wear your favourite outfit.
Even if it’s too cold for it, rock it anyways. Trust me.
4.Make a full, healthy, home-cooked meal.
Cooking “adult meals,” as I like to call them (basically any plate with more than three food groups) can give you a huge sense of accomplishment. Bonus feel-good points will also be allotted for fresh greens and a punch of protein. Pics for your mom or it didn’t happen.
5.Clean your room or your workspace.
I am certainly not qualified to tell anyone to clean their room, but I too know how far a little organizing can go to rejuvenate your mind and focus. Clear off your desk and stress a little less (it rhymes so it must be true).
6.Make a to-do list and actually do it.
I know I sound like some sort of lame high school self-help guide, but there is seriously nothing more satisfying than checking something off your to-do list. Even if it’s a small goal like “take a shower,” it still feels productive and it still counts. When your list starts looking like a Nike ad, you know you’re killing the game.
7.Treat yo’ self.
Whether it’s your favourite fro-yo or getting your nails done, a little self-bribery can go a long way for your motivation. Keep it in moderation, of course.
8.Take advantage of some of McGill’s “De-Stress During Exams” Events
Yoga. Puppies. Relaxation. Need I say more? There’s a de-stress activity held every exam day, and there’s no registration needed! Check out the event page here.
9.Climb the Mont Royal.
But do it for the fresh air this time instead of for the Insta.
10.Take a nap.
Just make sure you set multiple alarms. And maybe get your roommate to come check on you.
11.Express yourself.
Whatever it is that you would do for the rest of your life if money were no object, schedule a break and do it. Whether that’s painting, writing stories, listening to music, or playing the oboe, whatever makes you happy deserves to be done, even during exams.
12. Hug it out.
Hugging has been correlated with increased immune functioning, increased oxytocin levels, and increased self-esteem. Science is practically begging you to grab whomever you can get your hands on and embrace away.
So, pick one, or two, or as many as you’d like, and get going! Procrastination isn’t horrible as long as it’s productive, and restoring a positive state of mind should always be at the top of your to-do list.
Image obtained from:
http://favim.com/image/597425/