It’s hard to believe that the new year is already here and that means it’s time to head back to campus for the start of the spring semester. I’m not sure if I’m ready or if I just want to skip town and hop on the next plane out of here.
I have a love/hate relationship with the start of a new semester. Part of me loves having a fresh start, new classes and to get back into a set routine. The other part of me is already dreading to hear the sound of my alarm clock that will be going off at 6 a.m. next week.
I have compiled a list of my best tips to start the new semester off the right way—new year, new you, right?
- Create a morning routine
Whether that be a morning workout, a run around your neighborhood, yoga, meditation or reading a few pages of the current book you’re reading, establish some sort morning routine that you enjoy that will help you look forward to waking up in the morning and getting your day started.
- Fill out a physical copy of a planner
There’s just something about being able to take a pen and cross things off of your to do list in a physical copy of a planner! Plus you can buy tons of cute pens and color coordinate your daily tasks to correspond with your school assignments or work responsibilities—this will help you stay organized as well!
- Keep a positive mindset
If you think this semester is going to stink, then it will. If you jump the gun and assume you’re going to perform poorly in one of your classes, then you will. Go into the new semester with the “I can” or “I will” mindset and you’ll find that it will benefit your mental health and it will overall improve your daily mood.
- SLEEP… like, the actual recommended amount, not just for three hours a night
I know that going back to school is stressful. College is hard y’all, I know. But you’re going to be even more stressed out if you don’t sleep. Seriously. Pulling all-nighters is no bueno.
This semester work on your time management and actually finish your assignments on time or even ahead of time if you can. By doing this it will allow you to sleep the number of hours that you are supposed to.
According to a study conducted at Stanford University, “The average sleep requirement for college students is well over eight hours, and the majority of students would fall within the range of this value plus or minus one hour. If this amount is not obtained, a sleep debt is created.” Take the time to SLEEP!
May your new semester be full of good vibes, passing grades, new and good habits, good health and fun! May the odd ever be in your favor.