Around BGSU’s campus, the days have been a bit gloomy. With this comes the blues associated with seasonal depression. Along with that, it’s finally almost finals season. Talk about academic burnout!
As per my article last semester about surviving midterms, there are ways to relieve stress and burnout. It is always important to find time for yourself, and you should never feel guilty for taking time to relax when you need it. Remember that your health and happiness are important and one of the highest priorities.
Throughout this, I can firmly say that I’ve been struggling a bit lately. I find myself stressing (and panicking) about assignments, making sure my loved ones are okay, and overall just finding myself staying in bed all day. I know that this is no way to live. With help from my support system, I’ve begun to implement small things into my daily routine that allow me to not only feel better about myself but about my life and future in general.
ERin’s Guide to Being the Main Character
- Make a list of what you need to get done. Assignment deadlines are there for a reason. If you’re like me, deadlines are what motivate you to actually do assignments. Pay attention to this and budget out the time you need in order to complete these on time. Remember that your best is your best, and that grades are not a direct reflection of you and your success. Honestly, all it takes is knowing that I will feel better once it’s done and taken care of.
- Have some self-care time. I am Leo Moon and Leo Rising; I am all about caring for myself. A way I do this is by forcing myself to relax. While that may sound harsh, it really is what it takes for me to get my mind to stop racing. My personal routines include lighting incense for a cleanse (Lavender and Agave have been my favorite lately!), making my bed, and watching TikToks for however long it takes for me to feel content. Put on some comfy clothes, wash your face, and take it easy. Make time for yourself a priority alongside your academic and extracurricular commitments.
- Find clothes that make you feel good. As someone who has had trouble shopping for clothes that look right on my body, it has taken time to find clothes that I feel like a baddie in. However, making the investment in yourself is so worth it. When I feel good, I put good out into the world. Plus, compliments make everyone feel better, especially when you’ve got a fire fit on. Remember you are worthy, beautiful, and allowed to feel confident in yourself! Own your existence. Take up space, be bold.
- Make a “mood” playlist. Have you ever walked around campus to Cornelia Street by Taylor Swift? 10/10. You deserve to feel uplifted and motivated, and music helps put is in that mindset. Make a playlist that could be the soundtrack to your life. Strut your stuff; seriously.
- Share your thoughts and feelings with others. Apologies for the sap-fest, Her Campus. But, it’s true. Talking to loved ones about how you’re feeling, good or bad, can make you feel much more connected to the important people in your life. In caring for others, we have to remember that the people in our lives want us in their lives. Most often than not, they love to hear from us! Hit up your bestie from high school and check-in. Maybe they’re feeling the same way, and you can connect deeper in speaking up. Maybe they can look over your essay for you, maybe they can help talk through outfit ideas; connections and maintaining them are important in making sure we have meaningful people in our lives.
After all of this, I want to emphasize how important you are in this world. I know it may be hard and stressful right now, but rainclouds are temporary. Trust yourself and your abilities. Remember you are the main character in your life; it is meant to be lived! Go strut your stuff, HC! <3