We’ve made it this far. We’ve survived midterms and we’re making our way into the home stretch of the semester. Avoid the slump of procrastination with some of these helpful tips.
1. Take a break
This sounds easier said than done, but sometimes we get swallowed by commitments without even realizing it. Whether its coffee, tea, or a walk around in the fall scenery, be sure to take a quick break to come back refreshed and ready to tackle anything. Be sure to call home to skype with your pets and parents for an instant mood-boost! Also, try to branch out and try a new activity to get out of your usual rut. The RAC offers yoga classes throughout the week and the AFC has fun Zumba classes.
2. Learn how to say no
Much like the beginning of the year, clubs and social events seem to been rampant across campus. It’s okay to say no. Leave time for yourself or your homework. Parties are no fun when there’s a seven-page paper hanging out in the back of your mind. Job opportunities and internships are also beginning to open up for next year. It’s time to be realistic about what you can handle in your schedule.
3. Avoid the dessert bar
As tempting as that third brownie may be, try to stick with some healthier options if you make a daily trip for desserts at the dining hall. Some hummus and pita bread will leave you feeling satisfied while a pile of sweets will leave you sluggish and unwilling to walk across campus to your next class. Midnight pizza runs are fine occasionally, but they could be slowing you down mentally and physically. It’s also flu season, so eating right will help your immune system fight off the germs and keep you from missing class. Student health services is hosting multiple flu vaccine clinics as well.
4. Clean your space and get organized
Nothing adds more to anxiety than walking into a pile of clothes on your bed and clutter everywhere. Take an hour to clean up your dorm or room and put everything back where it belongs. Not only will it help with stress, it will also make sure you’re on-time and not running around searching for your favorite shoes or an assignment. If you haven’t invested in a planer, now is the time. They help get a holistic view of all your commitments and give you the chance to use your time wisely. Check out these cute planners on Target and Amazon.
5. Find a study group
It’s all about accountability at this point in the semester. Motivation may be down, but we survived midterms! If you haven’t already, find a study buddy or a group and schedule weekly meeting times. Reserve study rooms in Fenwick library for groups of two, four, six, or eight people.
6. Reward yourself
Over-indulging is bad, but it’s good to reward yourself! Crossing everything off your to-do list provides a good dose of dopamine. Finished your take-home midterm? Watch a movie on Netflix. Turned in all three papers due for the week? Take a trip Target with your best friend and buy that bag you’ve been eyeing.
There’s only six weeks left this semester. Use these tips and remember to schedule your classes for the spring in early November! You can do it!
Photo Credits: GMU Recreation, Gretchen Rubin