School is stressful. We don’t get enough sleep, we have 7 different projects, 3 different essays, 5 midterms, and 2 presentations all due in one week, and we somehow balance working on top of that. It starts to be too much, so it is important that you make sure you are not getting burned out.
A few things you can try to help keep you sane are:
Organize yourself
I understand that it’s natural to procrastinate (I do it too), but organizing yourself and sticking to a schedule will help reduce stress. Find a way that works for you, maybe it’s putting deadlines in your laptop calendar, keeping a daily planner, or setting alerts and reminders on your phone.
Set Goals
In addition to making sure you are organized, setting goals and sticking to them will help ensure your assignments will get done on time. Try using SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) to set realistic goals, and hold yourself accountable to ensure you meet them.
Take time for yourself
It is important that you carve out some time in the day for just doing what you want, watch an episode of your favourite series, play an instrument, create some art, take a bath, or read a book.
Get some exercise
I know this gets jammed down everyone’s throat, and one of the last things you feel like doing after a long week is getting up and running- but you seriously do feel better after doing some form of activity. The exercise does not have to be intense, you can go for a swim, walk around the block, or do some laying-down yoga- whatever gets you moving a bit.
Sleep
Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Sleeping is one of the most important things we can do for our bodies so that they can function properly. Did you know that having a good sleep can improve concentration and productivity?
You can always stop by the TRU Wellness Centre in Old Main to talk to someone about how to manage your stress and how not to burnout. Visit the Wellness Centre’s website for information on other ways to help cope with stress.
What are some ways that you keep from burning out? Comment below!
