I always treat a new semester the same way I treat the beginning of a new year- it’s essentially a fresh start with new beginnings. I make myself all sorts of “goals” or “resolutions” for the upcoming semester, and just like a new year- they don’t last very long. However, to help my mind stay organized as well as control my anxiety, I've started doing a few things that have become part of my daily routine. Some may be basic/generic things you've probably heard before and some are little quirks I have that may seem a little unusual to you. Either way, take away from it what you'd like because they're definitely not limited to school.
1) SOCIAL MEDIA. Our favorite distraction/addiction. I definitely have to control my usage so I only let myself get onto social media every TWO hours. I’m really strict with myself and actually stick to this. Some may say it’s too much or too little, but for me personally, it’s the perfect amount of time between scrolling sessions. I do this EVERY DAY, even when I’m not in school. I definitely recommend you find your own limit and stick to it!
2) COLOR. I’m the girl that’s known for her bag full of colored pens, highlighters, sharpies etc. I find that taking notes in color helps me stay organized and keeps my mind stimulated while studying. I really enjoy color-coding each section/topic. You can color code everything, even your closet if you wanted to get super type A about it. I tried this once but it didn’t stay that way very long (I ended up organizing it by seasons instead). Adding a splash of color just makes things fun.
3) TO-DO LISTS. Okay so this is probably the most basic, but once you start making lists they’ll become addicting. I need a list for anything and everything I do. Of course, planners are really helpful for this. Having a calendar view of your month ahead, or even a weekly view keeps you on top of your game. Trust me. Just write everything down. It may overwhelm you looking at the long list you've just created, but you'll feel better organizing your mind. Start with the first task and go from there.
4) CHANGING YOUR ENVIRONMENT. I’m a huge fan of changing your work/study environment every couple of hours. I know most people don’t like doing this, but because I tend to lose focus easily, changing locations really helps keep my mind stay awake. I read somewhere there is some psychological connect to changing up your environment and the positive correlation it has to your productivity levels. Don't believe me? Here's another article about why this tip works so well: https://blog.trello.com/coffee-shop-effect-boosts-productivity
5) CLEAN YOUR ROOM. Speaking of good environments, cleaning my room always makes me feel like I have my life together. I know, it sounds a bit dramatic but it's oddly true and satisfying. For me, a clean room = a clean mind. I love coming home to a bed made. If it’s not, I automatically start to get overwhelmed. I make sure my room is clean (almost) every time before I go out and it's actually become routine.
6) TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. Probably another cliché but is SO important. Do little things to make you feel your best, even when life may be giving you the worst. Whether that’s getting your eyebrows done, shaving your legs or just doing a simple face mask- take time out and do it. Looks aren’t something you NEED to focus on, but looking good is a huge part of feeling good. If you like the way you look, you’re more likely to feel good about yourself and you’ll be able to tackle the day with a shot of espresso and a dose of confidence.
7) TIME MANAGEMENT. I’m very particular about time. I detest the feeling of being rushed or late. My parents- believe it or not- have always been punctual people (despite Desi stereotypes). Naturally, I’ve always tried to be this way. However, as of late, I’ve actually started becoming horrible at this. I'd love to get back to being an ON TIME person though. Usually, I like to wake up an hour and a half before I have to leave (and even then, I’ll still get late sometimes). I like waking up and making my coffee, but also actually taking time out to ENJOY it. Mornings SHOULD be slow and relaxing in order to help you prepare you for the action the day has in store for you. But we all tend to sleep through our alarms and end up rushing to get to where we have to go. If we give ourselves ample time in the morning, we can actually spend time eating a decent breakfast, looking a little more decent (for ourselves of course), and still be on time to wherever we have to go.
8) RELAX & WIND DOWN. Make time to do nothing. I know that sounds counterproductive AF, but it’s necessary for us to simply be without the stress of school or work constantly pricking us. Catch up on a Netflix show, read a book, spend time with your family, go to a coffee shop, catch up with a friend, get your nails done, go see a movie, bake cookies etc. There are so many things you can do and depriving yourself from chilling out once and a while isn’t healthy. Everyone needs a break from routine. Also, be around people. Don't isolate yourself.
9) BREAK AWAY FROM TOXICITY. Do isolate yourself from toxic people. Stay away from drama and the dramatics people bring to their daily lifestyle. Even if you’re not involved in their drama, trust me- eventually you get sucked into it. Be aware of the company you keep. If you’re not careful, you’ll adopt unhealthy mannerisms and behaviors without even realizing it. These people become very time consuming and your focus will defer from what it was originally meant to be on. Don’t fall into the trap!
10) STAY HEALTHY & HYDRATED. Water is a wondrous little thing. Clear skin, higher energy levels, less sickness and less stress??? I don’t understand why I can’t bring myself to be a good water in-taker but it’s something I’m working on. It solves so many problems. Also basic, but necessary to point out- getting a little bit of exercise and a healthy diet will make you feel good all over. This goes back to my point: when you look good, you feel good! Just remember, you’re not limited to the gym. There are so many alternatives to working out such as yoga, dancing or even just going for a walk. If your body is physically fit, your mind will be mentally fit. All contributing to a better (and more productive) you.
-love Sof
Comments