Stress is inevitable. Between all of your classes, projects, homework assignments, and tests that you have to complete throughout the semester, and all of your friendships, relationships, and family time, there is so much to do in what feels like not enough time. While you can not completely avoid stress, here are some small things that you can do to avoid being completely stressed out.
Start Assignments Ahead of Time
We all know how fast time goes in college. Suddenly that ten page paper that was due in two weeks is due tomorrow. It happens to all of us, and to avoid the stress of having to rush on an assignment, it is always a good idea to start assignments ahead of of time, so that as the due date approaches, you can avoid pulling an all nighter. It is easier said than done, but trust me you will be thankful that you started that assignment early.
Set Reasonable Goals
It is important to set goals so that you have a plan for what you want to accomplish, but when you do not accomplish your goals, you can end up feeling defeated. When you sit down to do your work, it is better to set smaller and more reasonable goals. Be realistic about how much you can get done in a certain amount of time. This way you know you can achieve your goals, and if you end up accomplishing more than you wanted to, then that is just a bonus.
Budget Your Time
At the beginning of each week, take 10-15 minutes to write down any plans you have for the week and any assignments that you have due. Work on larger projects piece by piece over a few days instead of trying to complete an entire project in one sitting. It will burn you out and will usually produce a project that is not as well put together as it could be. Scheduling time throughout your week to complete your assignments can help you keep track of a hectic week and help you manage your time so that you can be sure to get all of your assignments done by the due dates.
Plan YOU Time
Similar to budgeting time to work on assignments, it is also important to plan some time for yourself. After working hard on all of these assignments and projects and studying for tests, you deserve a break. If you do not take time for yourself each week, it will increase your overall stress, and you will burn out faster. Take some time each week to watch a show on Netflix, watch a movie, or have a meal by yourself. It is good to spend time with your friends, but everyone needs some alone time every now and then.
Get Plenty of Sleep
It’s difficult to get enough sleep because of all of the assignments that are due and tests that you need to study for, but it is important to get enough sleep. It is nearly impossible to focus in class when all you are thinking about is the nap that you are going to take after class is over. You can not be productive or accomplish anything if you are overly tired. You can not perform your best on tests and quizzes if you are exhausted. Sleep is important for your health and well being.
Take A Walk
If a project or certain problem is stressing you out, take a break, and take a walk. After working on assignments for hours, it is nice to get outside and stretch your body out. Enjoy the nice weather while you can. Even just getting outside and breathing in some fresh air can help you calm down and enable you to tackle your project with confidence. If possible, take some work outside for a nice change of setting.
Get Involved
It is great to get involved in the community. Whether it be on or off campus, different clubs and organizations can offer so many different opportunities. You can take trips, make new friends ,and help others. Getting involved can help you to have a break and forget about your classes for a while. Joining a club or organization can be fun and can help you relieve stress, but it is important to note that joining too many things can only add to your stress. It is important to find a balance between work and play that benefits you.
Get Extra Help If You Need It
Nothing can stress you out like realizing that you have a test coming up and that you have no idea what is on it. Take the steps to ace that test and go to office hours if you have to. Professors are required to have office hours, and most professors have extra office hours the week of a big exam. Office hours can be very helpful; you can get one on one help or work in a smaller group and ask questions in a less intimidating environment. Office hours can really help, and the sooner that you go, the better. If you know you need help, do not wait until the week of the test. Be proactive and do your best.