This semester has been… interesting, to say the least. But throughout this year, I’ve learned to adapt to a new way of surviving school. Here are a few things that have helped me make the transition to online learning!
1. Blue. Light. Glasses.
I really had my doubts about blue light glasses, but now I don’t think I could live without them. Even after the first day of getting them, I stopped getting the terrible eye strain and headaches that I used to get from staring at a screen all day. I got my cute and affordable pair from Amazon!
2. Planner
When school went online, I felt less motivated in general and did not really feel the push to keep myself on track. Nothing felt right. But recently, I’ve been making better use of my planner, which has really helped me to stay organized and at least feel some form of control over my life. In addition to school assignments, even crossing things off for small things like “call family/friends back home” or “eat lunch” gives me a sense of accomplishment.
3. Humidifier
This school year, my humidifier has made being in my room all day a little bit more bearable. It makes my room feel less stuffy and has especially saved me during the recent colder months with dryness. Mine even has a built-in oil diffuser for ~essential oils~. I’m not sure if they help with stress like they claim, but they sure do make my room smell nice.
4. Headphones
My headphones have really helped me this semester, whether I used them for Zoom calls to stay focused or when I just wanted to relax and listen to music or a podcast. I switch between using my Airpods and Beats, but honestly anything will do.
5. Journal
This isn’t necessarily a school essential, but I would say that journaling has helped me stay sane and keep perspective in my personal life this year. Every day, I write about what I did, how I felt, and end with one thing I felt grateful for that day. Sometimes I look back through my entries, and it’s helped me realize that a) every day is unique even when the days just seem to blur together lately, and that b) there’s always something to be thankful for no matter how bad the day seems.