Every semester, I promise myself that I’m finally going to make some changes in my life: a new semester resolution, if you will. The list almost always looks the same: I’ll eat better, go to the gym, not procrastinate and study so I can get A’s. Unfortunately, despite the high goals I set for myself, I don’t ever seem to be able to keep up once things get busy. If you’re having the same problem, these little changes that you can make now will make for a much easier semester.
1. Get a dry-erase calendar.
If you’re crafty, you can make your own. If you’re artistically challenged like myself, you can buy one. A dry-erase calendar comes with all the benefits of a normal calendar, but it’s more environmentally friendly and WAY more fun to write on. You’ll definitely look like you’ve got your life together and you know what they say: fake it ‘til you make it! Even just going through your syllabi once a month and mapping out important dates will help you stay on top of deadlines and not be caught like a deer in headlights come exam day.
2. If you want to change a routine, do it now.
Many of us have recently made some New Year’s resolutions, and most of us probably want to work toward being a little healthier. Even if you didn’t make a resolution, there’s never a wrong time to make a positive change in your life no matter what it is: going to the gym more, finding a new way to relax, or getting your sleep schedule back on track. Although scientists haven’t quite reached an agreement, it is thought that forming a new habit takes at least 21 days. These early weeks of the semester before things get too crazy are the perfect time to try and form new habits to carry on once the semester heats up. Having a routine is key!
3. Learn to meal prep.
During the week, it can be so daunting when you try to balance school, work, studying, going to the gym, seeing your friends, and cooking. If you aren’t one of the fortunate souls who has a meal plan, you’re left to your own devices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Lunch can be especially tricky if you aren’t in the habit of packing one the night before. In the morning, you either have to scramble to throw something together and risk being late or you have to eat out yet again. Learning to do meal prep ahead of time will ensure you have a delicious lunch every day without the stress.
4. Reach out to new classmates.
Maybe you’ve seen this person in a couple of classes; you might even know their name. Maybe you’ve never seen them before, but they sit next you during the first few classes. Get to know these people. Make friends and see if your schedules are compatible. I found my best friend in my public speaking class of all places. Even if you don’t become great friends, you’ll at least have someone you can bounce questions off of and someone to study with before the exams!
Now is your chance to make this your best semester yet!