Okay y’all, it’s that time in the semester when deadlines are fast approaching, and you’re spending all of your spare time either in class or working on final projects. It’s also getting colder outside, and it’s basically dark by dinner, so everything just looks really sad all the time.
The worst part though, is that all of these things can build up and contribute to seasonal depression, anxiety issues and self-doubt. And last year, they really got to me.
I had always heard that sophomore year was a tough one, but I didn’t really think that was true until I hit a massive low, last fall. I was failing one of my classes and struggling in the others and trying to balance the academic pressure of UNC and my personal crises was more than difficult.
But after a long talk including some comforting words of encouragement from my mom and dad, endless support from my friends and a little therapy, here I am. I made it out, and I made it to junior year. Now don’t get me wrong, classes are still hard, and my mental health is definitely not functioning at 100 percent, but I’m proud of what I overcame and how far I’ve come. (Hence the title of this article.)
I love our theme of “gratitude” this week because it’s the time of year when we start to reflect on our lives and stay grounded in what means the most to us. I’m immensely thankful for the people that were there for me, but I’m also thankful for myself. No matter how much help and guidance I received from those around me, it was ultimately my decision to get better and keep moving forward.
You should be thankful for yourself too. We often feel like selfless acts are the most important when getting into the spirit of the holiday season, but you need to give yourself some affirmation, every now and then. Be thankful for you and how far YOU’VE come.
My wish for you, this season, is to remind yourself about your strengths and to practice a little self-love. Bake cookies, talk to your friends and family and remember that a grade in a class does not define you. Trust me, my D- in Astronomy does not affect how amazing I am at Harry Potter Trivia or my amazing cooking abilities.
But when in doubt, take a page from my book. Listen to the Moana soundtrack and take a second to yourself because “How Far I’ll Go” really is one of the best motivational bops I’ve ever come across. I’m confident in your ability to get through these last few weeks of the semester. Stay strong—in the future, you’ll be thankful for your tenacity and spunk.