As a college student, thoughts of negativity and stress can take over our minds and potentially change our attitude for the remainder of the day. Sometimes it’s hard to mask those negative thoughts with positive ones and hold on until tomorrow. If this describes you in any way, don’t worry, because you are not alone. It is scientifically proven that college students are the group of people who are most likely to obtain depression. As sad as that sounds, it’s true. I’m not saying that as college students we’re all going to fall under that category, but piles of negative thoughts and stressful days can lead to it.
There are MANY ways to get through another day. Positivity and hard work can fix almost anything. Here are 5 thoughts that will help you get through your stressful day of classes.
1. Many people before me have gotten through these classes, so you should be able to too.
Every class is different, and every now-and-again we can come across a class that challenges us and that can add unwanted stress into our lives. Just think, so many people have taken that class before you and they survived. Also, numerous classes and tons of work can bring you down as well. Remember, people before you and right along side of you are going through the same hardships now. No matter the level of “genius,” many people before you got through it, and so can YOU.
2. Everything you do in your daily life matters.
This thought can provoke deep thoughts. Whether you believe it or not, what you’re doing right now not only makes a difference in your life, but also the people around you. Going to class every day and expanding your knowledge is benefitting you in ways no one can even describe. Different classes not only teach you the bases of the class topic, but also many other important skills. For example: how to communicate with other students and professors, how to practice time management, how to do research, read, write, think, and many many more. Your daily schedule and the furthering of your education benefit your professors, your family, and your future too.
3. Remember to Live in the Academic and Social Moment.
Sometimes during class, we can lose interest and begin day dreaming and thinking about what we’ll be doing later and all of the homework we have. DON’T DO THAT. Focus on what’s happening in your life right at that moment. If you’re in class, worry about what you should be learning and try to obtain the information by paying attention and taking good notes. Math class isn’t a time to worry about what you and your friends are doing for spring break, even though it may be really exciting! There’s a time and place for everything, remember that. Doing this can lessen the stress of classes and other every day priorities. Keep in the back of your head what you have to do to keep good grades and a good social life, but don’t let it take over what you’re focusing on in that very moment.
4. Make a list of all the GOOD and POSITIVE things in your life.
Having positive thoughts and good vibes can go a longer way than one may think. If you didn’t do as well on a test as you may have wanted to, or if you are just having a bad day… make a list in your head, or even on a piece of paper, of all the good things that you have. They can include: your family, friends, significant other, your pets, job, roommate, faith; or even things such as the outfit you’re wearing, the food you’re eating, the sport you play, etc. There are many things to be grateful for sometimes it just takes a list to remember them.
5. You attend college for an education.
For as bland and boring as this thought may sound, it can help drive you to work harder. Everyone pays for their education. No matter what major, each class and dorm room has a price to it. This thought can provoke more studying and more focus on schoolwork. Work first and play later. We all chose to come to college for a reason, and what we do with our time here is crucial. It’s just a friendly reminder that education is a top priority. Don’t get me wrong; family, friends, “social gatherings,” and other events are very important as well, but education is the main purpose and goal of college.