It’s a couple of weeks into the new school year and already, the work seems to be piling up. Whether you’ve got tests, four to five page essays with what seem like impossible expectations, or extracurricular activities and jobs, it’s easy to let the stress build up until it feels unbearable. And while grades, completing assignments, and getting that degree are important, nothing is as important as mental health and emotional stability. Here are some tips to help manage your time and stay on top of your health during these busy times.
1. Plan out your schedule.
Planning out everything from assignments you have due, to upcoming tests, shifts at work, or meetings helps you stay organized and ready for what is to come, rather than scrambling to keep up. Whether you use your computer or a handheld planner to organize your time, taking those few extra minutes on a Sunday night to plan out your schedule will help you be ready for the week ahead.
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2. Set reasonable expectations for yourself.
College is known for a few famous, but often unreasonable study techniques: the “all nighter,” the “let’s do this all in one sitting,” and last, but certainly not least, the “I’ve procrastinated to the point where I only have a few hours to complete this essay/assignment/book.” Setting aside the fact that these techniques could lead to poor performance and grades, all of them are unrealistic and often put even more pressure on someone than before. Instead, plan accordingly. Your professor assigns 100 pages of reading for the next class? Read 50 one day, and the rest another day. By setting some reasonable expectations for yourself, you can ease that pressure you may carry on your shoulders.
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3. Take a break or a nap (or both!)
When you start to feel overwhelmed by all of the tasks at hand, the best thing to do is to simply take a break. There is no shame in giving yourself a break from some of your duties; it’s actually highly recommended by organizations like the Mental Health Foundation. Reading a book that’s been on your shelf for months, using that LUSH bath bomb you were saving for a special occasion, sitting back with a glass of red wine and watching a movie, or even just taking a nap are great ways to relax and enjoy some quality you-time.
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4. Know when to take a step back.
No matter how much time you give yourself to complete your tasks or how you plan out your schedule, overexerting yourself can still happen. But for many college students, there is a certain expectation that they must have it all. Clubs, organizations, jobs, family, friends, and school work are just some of the things college students are expected to make time for. But knowing when to step back from a school organization that is taking up too much of your time, cutting back on a few hours at work (if you’re able to), or taking a step back from personal or familial obligations can not only open up some free time, but can also prevent an overwhelming amount of stress from building and building. You deserve a break; give yourself one.
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Getting an education is very important, but your mental health and well-being also play into your performance. Following these steps can help prevent overwhelming stress and pressure, while also allowing you to enjoy your semester. Always remember, if you feel overwhelmingly stressed and a desire to talk to someone, GMU’s Counseling and Psychological Services is always there to help. Give them a call at (703) 993-2380 or visit the Student Union Building 1, Room 3129.