Being a Freshman in the middle of a pandemic is not an easy task. Having to join different zoom classes at all hours of the day and navigate complicated and disorganized Canvas pages is not a simple undertaking. We all looked forward to being a part of large lecture halls, surrounded in a bustling hustle on campus grounds, and studying at libraries with a bunch of friends, but now most of us find ourselves huddled in our homes or dorms. So, it’s easy to accept the invitation of unproductivity very easily. I’m here to tell you that’s okay because you have to give yourself a little more grace.
Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, or upperclassman, it’s important to remember that these are not normal times and what you’re going through is a unique situation the whole world is trying to navigate. It is essential to your mental, emotional, and physical health that you don’t push yourself too hard or expect too much of yourself. You must tell yourself it’s okay if you’re struggling, because at this moment in time, who isn’t? The most essential thing is to not stay in the struggle, but learn how to rise up from it. Give yourself breaks from working, take walks and take in a little bit of fresh air, call your friends and family, if you’re alone, or if possible, spend a little time with them in-person. Do not feel the need to spend all day at your desk.
Make sure you get enough sleep and take time for a little self-care. Whatever form that may take for you whether it’s a little exercise or spa routine, it’s important to care for yourself. It’s not about alone time, since we get a lot those these days, but it’s more about the time to focus on every aspect of yourself, your entire health, and well-being. You can’t work your best if you’re not feeling your best. Give yourself some time to do nothing, to just sit and relax. Understand that your body is not a machine or a robot. You deserve to have some time to just sit and appreciate all that you’ve done and what you’re doing.
Appreciate yourself a little more, give yourself a little bit of love and a lot more grace.