Mid-Semester Stress Survival Guide

It’s about that point in the semester when you can’t seem to sit down and breathe for more than five minutes a day. You’ve got midterms, papers and 17 homework assignments all due by 11:59 tonight. You haven’t shopped for groceries in two weeks, so your last meal consisted of granola and stale veggie straws. You haven’t interacted with a human besides your TA and the barista at the Strozier or Dirac Starbucks in what feels like days. You’re probably wearing the same outfit for the second time this week. I get it. We all get it. We’re all on the same page. The mid-semester meltdown is real and scary, but I have the perfect tips to help you unwind before you cry in your advisor’s office for the third time this week:

1. Prioritze your priorities

I am a seasoned veteran at spreading myself way too thin and juggling multiple commitments at once (at this point, it should just be my job to be busy), so I can tell you first hand that keeping an organized planner will literally save your life. Let’s be honest here, if we don’t write it down, are we ever going to remember to get it done? Take a moment each day to write down your daily tasks and prioritize them so you can #get #it #done.

2. Eat GOOD food and drink water

I don’t know who needs to hear this but … stop eating Chick-Fil-A more than twice a week. Set aside some time this week to go grocery shopping and buy at least two items that are not either a) ramen, b) in a can or c) processed. Drive the extra few minutes to Trader Joe’s and feel proud of the clean and healthy food you are buying!

3. Have a self-care night once a week

Two words: face mask. Buy it, do it, live it, love it. As a busy college student, it’s so easy to forget to take care of yourself in the midst of all the stress. Make it a point to stop and take care of yourself, whether it be by doing a face mask, a hair mask, painting your nails or watching an episode of your favorite show. Check out @hercampusbeauty on Instagram for suggestions on the best products to use! 

4. Buy a plant

As silly as it sounds, plant shopping can be a great way to de-stress while also making great life choices. A plant is like a child. You take care of it and it will bring you joy. Not to be dramatic or anything, but Purple Martin Outpost might be the cutest spot in all of Tallahassee, so I suggest making a trip over there to buy the cutest baby succulents you’ve ever seen in your life.

5. Take a study break outdoors

The best way to get away from stress? Literally, get away. Escape the college bubble and schoolwork for a weekend and visit anywhere other than Bento on Tennessee Street or your friend’s apartment. My suggestions are to visit Wakulla Springs or Cherokee Sink if you’re looking to enjoy the water or visit one of the great local parks, such as J.R. Alford Greenway or Alfred B. Maclay Gardens.

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