I know the last thing you want to read is something soppy about deadlines and how important they are. So I’m not going to talk about that.
Unfortunately, though, the process of handing your coursework in on time is as inevitable as it is difficult.
There are two types of people during deadline season. To those people who hand in 12pm assignments at 11:59, we stan. We all know how stressful it can be trying to write your ideas AND submitting on time – this article is perfect for your stressful life.
If you’re one of those people who finishes weeks in advance, must be nice to have your life under control. But don’t scroll away – I understand you can feel just as much pressure as your procrastinating course mates.
So, here are five ways to destress during deadline season that have been tried and tested by a fellow stresser.
- Surround yourself with people
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The recluses amongst you reading this are probably thinking “this one doesn’t apply to me – NEXT!”. But let me tell you: studies show that even introverts benefit from having friends. In fact, having no friends is as harmful as “smoking 15 cigarettes a day” according to Nitesh Chawla, a professor of computer science and engineering at the University of Notre Dame. Instead of revising for exams alone, why not call one of your mates over? Or if it’s an essay only you have, even if your mate isn’t doing the same work as you, just sitting near each other could boost your mood and concentration. Set a timer and reward yourselves with a good ol’ tea sesh when its over.
- Walk it out
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We really need to make the most of being in Lancaster! Our campus is bursting with beauty, with huge amounts of greenery and wildlife. Take some time out every 45 minutes to an hour, wrap up warm, and go for a walk around. My personal favourite? The woodland trail. But if you fancy a shorter walk, I recommend walking along the path on the outskirts of campus – it’s a real mood booster. And don’t forget to say hi to the ducks while you’re at it!
- Food, glorious food!
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I don’t know about you, but food is my ultimate best friend in life. Honestly whenever I’m feeling stressed, I just pop open my fridge and a smile instantly appears on my face. How does this help you destress close to deadline season you ask? Feeding your body nutritious foods such as nuts, wholegrain carbs, and a whole lot of high-protein food is as good for your body as it is for your mind. Oh, and please don’t forget to chug down at least your recommended 2 litres of water every day – your brain will thank you by actually performing efficiently!
- Meditate
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Whether you’re a religious or spiritual person or not, mediation has its benefits. Experts say that any form of mediation, whether broad or specific (such as daily prayer), helps to cultivate positivity, energy, and focus. Just take some time out at any point of the day – it could be first thing in the morning or before bed – and give yourself a break. This time out could involve journaling to settle your unspoken thoughts or just closing your eyes and focusing on your breathing – whatever suits you. You will find that your approach to finishing your essay or piece of coursework will go from chaos to a newfound place of relaxation.
- Face the music
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Ah acceptance. It’s a funny concept, isn’t it? We all seem to know what it means yet we cannot all experience it. As hard as it may be, don’t run away from your problems – you have worked so incredibly hard to earn the position you have on your chosen course. Constantly remind yourself why you are here by having a little flashback to your past A-Level self – you know that sad, depressing time when we felt like exams were sucking the life out of us? You managed to get into a top 10 UK university – accept that!
I find that by writing your future goals down and constantly reminding yourself of the different routes to reach that end goal, destressing is inevitable. It should definitely give you that last push at 12am to finally wrap up your assignment and submit it the next day with a smile.