We’ve reached the point in the year where finals are as rapidly approaching as the holiday season. It’s a time of many intense emotions and stress. I know finals week can be rough, but I’m here to tell you that yours doesn’t have to be. Here are some fruitful thoughts to keep in mind as we finish off this semester!
1. You are not the definition of your grades or the sum of your GPA
I believe something important to keep in mind is that yes… finals are important. However, grades don’t define you. At the end of the day, you are a unique individual who is more than your academic performance. We live in a society where burnout is expected, and almost required of you, in striving towards success and achievement. So much so, we fail to remember it is our unique qualities that make us who we are and sets us apart from others. There will always be something greater to achieve or obtain, so remember to never define yourself by the number of achievements you rack. It’s okay to like academic validation, just remember it’s not all that defines who you are.
2. Breathe. Just Breathe.
I find myself forgetting the simple action of inhaling and exhaling through times like this. There’s always something on your mind, always a task to be done, a project to be finished, a new concept to be learned, a class to attend. But we must not forget to breathe, for it is the essence of living. If you find yourself getting tense, take a step back and breathe. Sometimes enjoying silence is also helpful. Take out your airpods and immerse yourself in the nature around you… it helps you live in the moment.
3. Prioritize
Seeing as though I am a planner myself, I find prioritizing my day (and weeks) to be extremely helpful. Make a list of everything that needs to be done, then rank them on your priority list in a way that makes sense to you. Personally, I mark things depending on the deadline and also amount/intensity of work. By knowing my priorities, I am able to limit certain stressors and overall have more control of my day.
4. Have Fun
It’s so easy to get wrapped up in work that we neglect to live in the moment and do things that fulfill us. Yes, studying is important, but so is your happiness. If there’s one thing in life we can never get back, it’s time, and as such… we should make the most of what time we do have. Go out to lunch with a friend, go shopping for a new nail polish, watch a concert, or try out a new boba shop. It’s possible to still have fun while also being an academic weapon, you just have to figure out how to balance both.
I wish each of you success and fulfillment as we approach finals week and remember academic weapons can still live it up! Until next time, stay uniquely you!