As Thanksgiving has come to an end and we enter the holiday season, we college students find ourselves reflecting on the past year. Our success, moments that could’ve gone better and excitement for winter break.
However, with the closing of the year, many of us are stressed over the new year looming so close. The excitement of setting new goals and the drive to become the best version of ourselves at this moment. So, here are a few ways to create healthy habits to set yourself on the right track for the new year.
- Your Room is a Reflection of Your Mind
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Walking into a messy room after a long day is never a good feeling. You know the room, clothes scattered on the floor, and old water bottles lying around. This type of environment makes it hard to focus, relax or even think straight.
However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Taking a little time to clean your room every few days, or what I like to do, a Sunday reset, is the first step to success. A tidy space to sleep, study and get ready in the morning makes each day feel so much easier.
There’s truly nothing like starting and ending your day in a clean space. These little changes, such as organized make-up, clean and folded clothes and a clutter-free desk, might seem small but make drastic mood changes.
It isn’t just about aesthetics, but creating a space where you can thrive.
- Set Yourself Up for Success in Class
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The burnout this semester has been intense. Trust me, I know. I’ve been waking up tired, and I’m stressed throughout the whole day.
So, how do you turn things around? You must start with the basics. Recently, my planner has been a savior.
I start by planning out each hour of my day. It not only creates a schedule for me to ensure I get my work done, but helps me feel like I can achieve everything I want to in the day. Writing everything down allows me to get the clutter out of my mind and into an organized reality.
Next, find a study system that works for you. Whether it’s blocking study time in specific intervals, using Quizlet or reviewing notes, consistent efforts will always beat last-minute cramming.
It is important we end this semester strong. We don’t want all of our hard work to be for nothing. Becoming the best version of yourself also entails doing your best.
- A Moment of Gratitude a Day Keeps the Sadness Away
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Feeling gratitude in moments of stress can alleviate the pressures of life. Taking time to reflect on something you’re grateful for, whether it be a friend, a family member or teacher, can remind you that despite a difficult moment, there are better times to come.
One way in particular I like to incorporate gratitude into my life is through journaling. I use my journal as a way to rant about my day, but also to remind myself of everything that is going well. This has always boosted my mood, especially after a hard day.
Writing three things you’re thankful for each day, letting the people in your life know you’re grateful for them or stopping for a minute to appreciate a small victory can help you notice that good things are all around.
- Fitting in Time With Friends
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One thing college has taught me so far is that if you’re not doing enough fun things, burnout will catch you quick. It is so important to spend time with your friends!
This past semester, I feel I spent too much time studying, and not enough time having fun, which actually led to a few bad marks. I was overstudying, and it led to my downfall a bit.
So, a new habit I’ll be committing to in my life is one weekly mini hangout. Whether it is grabbing food, watching a movie or simply hanging around and chatting, I will be making more time for friends.
The people make the place, and it’s important that we spend time with our friends because our time here is limited, and we will never be living with our friends like this again.
By prioritizing loved ones amidst the chaos, you’re not just alleviating stress but creating amazing memories. Creating new habits doesn’t always have to mean hard work; sometimes it really is just about having fun.
- Taking Care of Ourselves
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I know finding time to exercise as a busy college student can be extremely difficult. Some weeks, I’m able to work out four or five times, and some weeks I go to the gym once. However, it is so important to take care of ourselves, especially during this time.
I know personally, during the weekdays, around four o’clock, I start hitting a point of burnout. I feel overwhelmed by work and stressed about all the tasks I have to complete. So, I set up my workouts around those times.
Although it is hard to get to the gym, I have never left a workout not feeling immensely better. It is not only good for the body, but also for the mind.
Even a 10-minute walk each day can help boost your mood. Bundle up and head out there! I know it’s cold, but walking can serve as a release of stress.
It is also important to drink a lot of water. The weather is dry, and being dehydrated during the winter can cause you to be more susceptible to illness. On top of this, eating clean and taking your supplements will become increasingly important.
I tend to take vitamin C gummies, and I truly believe it works wonders. It boosts my immunity, and I think it is why I’ve stayed away from sickness for the most part.
With finals coming up, I know it gets hard to prioritize sleep. But it is so important to attempt to get at least eight hours a night. It not only helps your health, but also allows you to study better because you are more focused and able to retain information more successfully.
I know how difficult it can be to find time to take care of ourselves on top of academic demands, but doing one thing for yourself each day will set you up for success this semester and into the new year.
As the year is coming to a close and winter break approaches, it is the perfect time to start taking control of your life. Whether it’s time spent with friends, taking care of yourself or a few minutes used for reflection, it is important to use these habits for the betterment of your life. Time is flying, and with the new year just around the corner, it’s more important than ever to spend it wisely.