As I go further into my college life, I’ve come to realize that I’m a creature of habit. From my freshman year to my senior year I’ve developed a few routines that I can’t shake, and they’ve become even more essential to me as the time has passed. Maybe I can attribute this to my schedule becoming gradually busier over time.
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The first of my little routines is a morning (or afternoon — I’m not picky) coffee. No matter what, I always visit the coffee bar straightaway the first time I go to main campus. Whether it’s 10 a.m. or 3 p.m., I always wind up wandering to the Cappa Bar for a grande coffee.
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I’ve also become more and more finicky about my exercise schedule. I wouldn’t exactly call myself a health nut, but I enjoy having a workout every day, usually a jog or walk on the treadmill. If I can’t fit in my exercise it’s enough to set me on edge. I don’t like having my routine disrupted. I’m even pretty picky about the music I listen to while I’m working out — it’s pretty much “The Little Mermaid” soundtrack or bust nowadays. I know. It’s weird. Don’t judge.
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I’m also pretty much plugged in to my headphones all the time, especially when I’m on the shuttle or in the library doing homework. My music is also a routine of sorts, something that I’ve convinced myself I need. On the shuttle, doing homework, cleaning, whatever it might be, music makes it better.
Anyways, the point in all of this is that I think I’ve become comforted by the regularity of these routines, like by doing these things I can face the day. My days are often busy whirlwinds, but if I go get my coffee that’s something constant, something I can hold on to — it’s like the caffeine convinces me that I do in fact have the energy to get through the day. It anchors me and helps me feel ready to take on the world. Exercise helps me break up my homework and clear my mind. In turn, I’m better able to focus on what I’m working on. My workout helps me blow off steam and helps me de-stress, and all of these things together have taken on a special role and help me handle a busy schedule. Music helps me to organize my thoughts and to block out any worries or distractions that I might encounter.
I think these little habits are my own “coping mechanism” to help me process stress and my to-do list. Working out, music, and coffee all put me in a more positive mindset to tackle the day.