Balancing your time when in college is by far one of the hardest things to learn how to do. Between classes, homework, clubs, jobs, and sports, it can feel like none of your time is actually your own. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there and there’s an easy solution- having a hobby or even just a little something to give yourself a bit of a break! These are super important things to have not only now while in college, but will be throughout the rest of your life as well. Stretching yourself too thin and not allowing for even a minute of spare time is bound to wear you down and cause major mental burnout. There are so many hobbies to choose from. Maybe you want to try something you’ve never done before or maybe you want to fall back into an old pastime that you used to enjoy. Whatever it is, do what makes you happy!
Your new found hobby doesn’t have to take up loads of time, just enough to keep yourself sane while managing a crazy schedule. Pick up that book that has been sitting on your shelf for months and read a chapter or two in between studying or before you go to bed. Open up Spotify and make a playlist of songs to fit your vibe. Whether it’s a rainy Conan Gray and Phoebe Bridgers kind of day or you want to secretly listen to Disney music while doing your work, making playlists is a great way to clear your mind. Make some for your friends. Or, you can make one to listen to while you try something else, like heading to the gym or going for a run around campus.
Get creative with your interests. There are so many different ways to keep a journal: dream journals, movie journals, reading journals, bullet journals, or just a personal journal that you can treat like a friend and give all of your problems to. If you like to write or just want to start, jot down little poems or stories for yourself in the notes app of your phone, or in another journal. You can learn to crochet and make the cutest presents for everyone you know or head over to the music building and pick up the instrument you haven’t looked at in forever. If you’re a little rusty it’s not a problem, the practice rooms are for your ears only.
There are so many other things out there waiting for you to try. Whether it’s beginning to write the next great American novel or simply starting a new show on Netflix, taking time for yourself is one of the most important steps toward being successful in college.