Emma Caroline Brown
Editor
The semester is fully in swing, so assignments are piling up, due dates are drawing near and your stress levels are probably reaching the first heights of the semester.
I sometimes get super stressed at some moments in the semester, especially when midterms or finals are stacking up on my Canvas to-do list. But I always make time for myself. Making time for yourself first starts with the motivation to make time.
Planning and scheduling can sometimes be hard to accomplish, especially in college when things are so new and changing. However, planning and scheduling in any way you can will make all the difference in how your mental health with school or life is going.
This semester is my busiest one yet. Regular classes and assignments are paired with work, extracurriculars and, well, life. While I still struggle with procrastination and feeling the weight of stress multiple times throughout the semester, I have learned how to deal with the ups and downs.
Every week, and sometimes every day if it’s a super stressful time, I make a to-do list. I go into my notes app, type in basic things I want to accomplish on time (assignments, readings or other school-related tasks), and then I slowly check each task off one by one.
It sounds super simple, but sometimes it takes a lot of effort to check off some of those tasks. Each time I check off tasks, even if it’s just one, I feel like the day is productive because it is one less thing hanging over my head.
It is amazing the difference you can feel when you are one step ahead on assignments instead of two steps back. Plus, you are already on your way to making time.
The next thing I find necessary in making time is using a calendar to its best benefit. Right now, I have two calendars on my desk — one plain monthly calendar and one giant monthly calendar where I can write in daily events or deadlines.
Writing down and knowing your assignment or test due dates can save you from a load of stress that can affect you and your grades. Preparation is key in high-stress environments, but it is something that can take a while to achieve.
Seeing how your time is spent means prioritizing the essentials (assignments, meetings or tests) and knowing when you have time for yourself. The time you made by being organized, learning how to keep stress at bay and falling into better habits can be used for more relaxing, or fun, moments.
Now, grab your phone or paper and pen and start seeing how you can make and use time. Use that newly allotted time to do something you love! If you know me, you know I love movies, so I always use my “me time” to go to the theater or rewatch an old favorite. Whatever you do with your created time, make it yours and know you are headed in the right direction.