Calling all college students: congratulations on surviving September! After a full month of school, you probably have a favorite class, a most stressful day of the week, and your ideal (yet never completely achieved) allotted times for sleep and exercise. All parts of your routine are falling into place. As you look at your daily planner, Google Calendar or iPhone reminders, see if you have room to pencil in one more thing: positivity.
It’s cheesy, I know, but positivity rids your routine of monotony, complaints, sleepless nights and day-before-deadline meltdowns. Here are a few specific ways to incorporate positivity into your schedule. I promise it’s to your benefit!
1. Speak your own success
It is so easy to get into the habit of saying “I’m so tired,” “I hate chemistry,” “My professor is so boring,” or “I’m going to fail this test.” These quotes are naturally a part of a college student’s vocabulary. What a lot of people don’t realize is the more you say something out loud, the more likely you’re going to believe it and continue experiencing it! Yes, complaints can come to your mind, but try to only vocalize how you could fix it. Take action, vocalize positivity and have the courage to change what you can!
2. Spread it
In order to live with a positive attitude, the people you surround yourself with need to support and understand this. Try asking your friends, “What was the best part of your day?” and find other ways to lead positive conversation. Even better, throw in some random acts of kindness. An encouraging note, Friday Flower or a unique compliment can help a person regain an optimistic perspective.
3. Do what you love
Even though your schedule is completely packed, don’t forget to make time to create your own happiness. If you love to run, meditate, draw, sing, bake, etc, make some daily (or weekly) time for it! Don’t replace your passions and stress-relievers with readings and assignments. If you make time for yourself, you will likely be happier (and more focused) come homework time. Never question whether or not you “deserve” a nap, a Netflix episode or a spontaneous jam session. If it makes you happier and mentally healthier than six hours in the library, you undoubtedly deserve it.
Takeaway message: even if you’re an Ole, you are never too busy to be positive. Positivity will make your busy schedule more bearable, possible and beneficial. It’s easier said than done. Start small and spread it around!
Photo Credit Positivity Quote bubble