You have two papers due, one project due, so many readings to catch up on, a job interview, and if that isn’t enough, you’re family has gone insane and your roommate just got cheated on. How do you come back from this week from Hell?
We all have these weeks, whether they only come once a year or you have one every few months.We have all welcomed Friday with a smile on our faces as we hope the weekend will help us recover to ensure that next week is nothing like what we just went through. But, what do you do when its only Tuesday and you feel like you won’t make it to see the next sunrise? Here are a few tips that helped me get through my most recent week from Hell.
- SLEEP! Sleep will be your savior when you need an escape from this cruel world. Try to get as much work and to-do list items done during the day so that when darkness comes, you can welcome it. What if you can’t sleep because stress keeps you awake? For these nights, pop some melatonin and lie down while lavender oil diffuses into the air. And never underestimate the gift of a quick power nap. These are essential to days that seem to have no end. Take those 30 minutes in between your classes to catch some Zs instead of cramming.
- Encourage optimism! Even when your world and everyone’s world around you seems to be crashing down, be the friend that offers a positive outlook instead of invoking pessimism. Some people might say that this is “annoying” or “unrealistic”, but having an attitude of joy – even thought that’s not how you feel on the inside – during hellish times will allow you to believe that you actually can get through this week.
- It’s okay to cry! When a week really is THAT bad, feel no shame in letting out some tears. When you are overwhelmed, crying can be a form of release. I’m not encouraging people to burst into uncontrollable sobs during their chemistry final, but let it all out in the shower or use your best friend’s shoulder. At the end of the day, you will feel a little bit better letting your emotions out rather than keeping them on lock.
- Treat yo self! I’m a firm believer in self-care. Whether you treat yourself by eating ice cream and watching The Bachelor or by going out to your favorite restaurant with your gal pals, you will be glad you did that instead of overworking yourself. Even when weeks like these come and you feel like there is absolutely no time for a break, make the time. It will make the world of a difference.
Remember that you are only human. We all have weeks from Hell. You will get through it. Next week will be better. ?