Here is my go-to self-care routine for when I feel like I’m barely staying afloat. I notice I get into a slump in the last few weeks of every fall semester. With finals approaching, the sun going down earlier, and winter break just out of reach, I start to lose focus and momentum. This is what I do to feel grounded and motivated.
Journal
I start by journaling. Sometimes I don’t know exactly what’s on my mind and what’s taking up most of my mental energy until I start writing. Writing helps me identify, process, and understand what I’m feeling.
start a prioRity to-do list
When everything starts to pile up and feel overwhelming, it helps me to write down all my responsibilities and tasks that need to be completed. That way I can see it all in front of me and think clearly. I also list them from most to least important. I label the most urgent tasks and others that aren’t time sensitive. Getting it all out of my head helps me not only remember everything, but to take a deep breath. I don’t have to feel like I’m forgetting anything if it’s all on the paper.
hit the gym
Sometimes going to the gym can feel irresponsible when I have hours of work in front of me. However, I have learned that a good workout can help keep me focused and productive. It also helps me stay goal-oriented. Accomplishing a great workout propels me to keep that momentum in my semester to keep that feeling of accomplishment.
go for a walk
When I would get this advice as a kid, I would roll my eyes. As an adult, a walk can change my whole day. When I’m feeling overwhelmed, walking helps me process my racing thoughts and I return feeling calm and organized.
call mom
Sometimes I just need to call my mom. She always knows what I need to hear. When I’m feeling particularly low, those phone calls can give me the push I need to get back on track.
meditate
I started meditating to help with anxiety, and it has completely changed the way I perceive worry and stress. It helps me to separate myself from these feelings and see it from the outside. I can identify why I’m feeling this way and get to the root of the problem faster.
Choose your words wisely
When I choose to talk about myself highly, I notice better self-esteem, more confidence, and resilience. Instead of calling myself dumb for forgetting something on a busy day, I tell myself I’m proud for getting through such a busy day and I learned from this experience. Next time, I will keep a better to-do list. Perspective is everything.
Take a deep breath and take a moment for gratitude
I always remind myself everything I have to be grateful for. It helps me to not lose sight of things. Today’s stress is often yesterday’s dreams. College can feel overwhelming, but it was everything high school me worked for. It is easy to want more and more, but it is also so important to remember all I have accomplished and what there is to be proud of. Trying my best is all I can ask of myself at the end of the day.