This article was edited by Gloria Chan.
The beginning of a new semester means two things: tedious schoolwork and a new crush to obsess over. Ever changed your route to class just to catch a glimpse of him? Ever planned an outfit around the possibility of running into each other? Girl, I get it.
But before you start picking out your fall couple costumes, here are a few things to keep in mind before you fall too hard:
- Crush Your Grades
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Your crush can be your motivation to work harder – study your textbooks just like you study his social media account. Both can leave you with more questions than answers. Go and be that academic weapon, so you’d have both the brains and the confidence to match.
- Love Yourself
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Sounds cheesy, but it’s true. Stay true to who you are, and don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Knowing yourself makes it easier to set boundaries and protect your peace. Never let someone else’s expectations stunt your growth or drain your energy. Your authenticity is what makes you distinct, unique, and irresistible.
- Match the Energy
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Always the one initiating contact? Maybe it’s time to take a step back. Don’t spend your days obsessing over when he might text you. Instead, channel that energy into becoming the best version of yourself – pick up a new hobby, go for a run, or simply do something that makes you happy. Life will have its ups-and-downs, but learning to protect your peace while it happens is invaluable.
- Romanticize Life
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Be the light in your life. He can’t be the only one lighting the fire in your heart. You are in charge of your life and should live it to the fullest. There will be times when you feel lonely – keep in mind that you are enough and being able to enjoy your alone time is the best kind of peace you can give yourself. Whether you’re watching the sunset paint the sky or admiring the moonlight on a quiet evening, romanticising the little things is a beautiful form of self-love.
- Make Time for Family and Friends
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Romantic relationships matter, but don’t let the possibility of one overshadow the relationships you already cherish. Remember the friends that listen to your endless crush updates and the family who stand by you through every high and low. Your support system is worth nurturing, whether or not your crush ever becomes something more.
- Touch Grass (literally)
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Winter is just around the corner – the leaves are falling, the grass is fading, and the air is getting colder. Take a step outside and enjoy the crisp autumn air while it lasts. Maybe a little fresh air will clear your head and remind you that there’s a whole world beyond his profile.
Here’s to manifesting a Fall Forever – or, at the very least, a fall worth falling for.