My alarm rings once at 6:35 a.m., and again at 6:45 a.m. When the final alarm blares at 7:00 a.m., I groggily sit up in bed. Another day, another dollar, am I right?
The transition from high school to college is undoubtedly difficult. While the University of Washington has been an overall amazing experience, the start of my first quarter at the UW was challenging in many ways, especially when it came to looking after my mental health.
I soon realized that if I was going to make the most out of my time at the UW, I was going to need to make a plan. I then established a flexible routine that is far from perfect, but has worked wonders for me in so many ways.
After I wake up in the morning, I immediately go on my journaling app called Stoic. I absolutely love using Stoic because it only takes a few short minutes to complete the exercises and get in the right mental space for my day. Additionally, Stoic helps me reflect on my mindfulness, daily goals, and gratitude. There are plenty of other apps in the app store with similar functions, but I have found Stoic to be my personal favorite.
I get ready for my day and show up early to Center Table for breakfast. Typically, I will use this extra time before class to have coffee and write my book, but lately, I have been applying for internships. Waking up early and getting to work right away increases my motivation, and my sense of accomplishment.
I call my parents on my way to class or text a friend to let them know that I’m thinking of them.
Then, any gaps that I have between classes I will fill with more food (of course). I will also work on tasks that I have been meaning to prioritize, which includes anything from homework to an advising appointment.
Once I finish my classes, I will head to the Intramural Activities building to exercise. After dinner at Dawg Bites, it’s time for work before I know it. I highly recommend an on-campus job if you are able to secure one; as an on-campus intramural referee, I never have to go far off campus, and it doubles as extra exercise!
I will complete any leftover assignments, use Stoic, and plan out the following day before bed.
Not every day is the same; life is notoriously unpredictable. Similarly, routines differ from person to person. However, I strongly believe that all Dawgs need a consistent willingness to look after themselves physically, mentally, and socially. If you’re able to do just that, then the rest will fall into place. Trust yourself and your abilities, and good luck with finishing up midterms, Dawgs!