College life can feel like an absolute whirlwind. Between classes, assignments, clubs, internships, and work, trying to have some semblance of a social life sometimes feels impossible.
As someone who’s constantly been on the go this semester, I’ve come to learn that spending quality time with my loved ones doesn’t have to be about big gestures or fancy plans. Sometimes, it’s the little mundane moments that end up meaning the most.
Here are some of the most important things I’ve learned to make sure I get the most out of my time with the people who matter most.
Hangouts Don’t Have to Be Extravagant
It’s so easy to compare yourself to what other people are doing on social media. Every time I go on Instagram, it seems like everyone and their friends are constantly traveling and doing all sorts of fun and glamorous things together.
While those weekend trips and fancy brunches are fun, they’re not always realistic in the midst of a busy schedule, especially on a college budget. Over time, I’ve realized that the small, everyday moments can be just as meaningful, sometimes even more so.
For example, going to the store with a friend or family member might not sound like the most exciting activity, but it’s a shared experience. You laugh at the weird snack options together, catch up on everything that you missed, and as a bonus, you’re being productive!
Even cleaning or doing laundry together can turn into a bonding experience when you’re doing it with a friend. Some of my favorite memories with my friends are literally from us aimlessly wandering around in the mall or Target together just to chat and pass the time.
Something as simple as grabbing a quick bite to eat can turn into a cherished memory to look back on. Getting sushi with your dad, grabbing a coffee with your friend at your favorite coffee shop in College Town, or sitting down at the Student Union with some Panda Express to “study.” These moments always remind me that connections don’t always have to be complicated. It’s more about just being present and enjoying each other’s company.
Making Time to Call
For me, calling someone on the phone is my worst nightmare. However, recently, I’ve been making a more conscious effort to push past that discomfort, and it’s made a huge difference in my life.
I started incorporating phone calls into my daily routine in ways that felt natural. Whenever I’m going on walks, I always try to take the time to call my parents and catch up with them for the day. Even if it’s just on my walk back from the gym or class, it’s never something that I regret doing.
Calling doesn’t have to be long or scheduled perfectly, and most of the time I’m only on the phone for about 10 or 15 minutes, but it’s plenty of time to check in, share a funny story, or remind them that I’m thinking of them and that I love them. It helps me maintain closeness with my family, especially since I don’t get to see them as often in person.
Finding Joy in Spontaneity
Another thing I’ve learned is the importance of embracing spontaneous moments. This one kind of kills me a little, since I’m the kind of girl who has to have her entire week planned out. College life is rarely predictable, and sometimes the best experiences happen when you’re not overthinking them.
A last-minute meet-up with a friend between classes, getting dragged into a random event that your friend begs you to come with, or even just an unexpected phone call that turns into an hour-long conversation will always leave your heart feeling a little fuller.
I try to remind myself that relationships don’t have to revolve around perfectly planned events or Instagram-worthy turnouts. It’s more about enjoying being in the presence of your loved ones. Showing up, even in small ways, communicates love and care more than grand gestures ever could.
By making time to reach out, and appreciating all of the mundane moments, I’ve found it way easier (and much more fulfilling) to stay close to the people I care about. Some of my favorite memories with friends and family are not the fancy adventures, but the tiny, everyday moments.
For anyone else feeling the pressure of balancing college and relationships, I hope this is a reminder that connection doesn’t have to require perfection! It’s all about showing up and being there for those you care about.
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