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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at FSU chapter.

It’s almost the end of the semester, which means time for summer and fun! But it also means that it’s time to take a moment and think about what we all want and need. I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting as the semester comes to a close, and I decided to share some valuable tips that I’ve learned along the way in order to help us all achieve that end-of-semester refresh we all need.

1. Breathe

First, and most importantly: take a breath. Take a moment and practice some deep breathing, relax your shoulders and unclench your jaw. Doesn’t that feel better already? This past semester, I learned how valuable taking that moment to just breathe really is, especially with all the curves and bumps we’ve faced.

2. Declutter

When I say declutter, I don’t necessarily mean to organize your room or go through your closet. What I really mean is to organize; organize your personal thoughts as well as your actions with yourself and others. Take a moment and replace any unnecessary negativity in your life with some much-needed positivity. I’ve definitely learned that pessimism has such a direct impact on me and that it is so valuable to replace it with optimism and positivity. Whether it’s from something that may be a slight bother or something much larger, take a second to reflect and consider how altering or removing it may benefit you. Trust me, the results from some minor decluttering or reflecting are immaculate.

3. Treat yourself

Friends sitting in hammock together
Photo by Janko Ferli? from Unsplash

Ice cream? You deserve it. Spa day? You deserve that. A night out? You deserve that too! It is so valuable to take a moment and think about what we need, especially in these trying times. One thing that I’ve learned, especially this semester, is that it is such a treasure to treat yourself. For example, I went and got my nails done last week, and I feel so special! Whether it’s doing something that’s been on your list or trying something new, be sure to treat yourself before the semester ends.

4. Think about what you need. 

Especially now, I think it’s so important to think about what we all need. We’re all people, and we’re all human, but sometimes what we need can get lost in our day-to-day moments. From school to work to at-home life, it might be strenuous when we’re always out and about, but we all need to take that moment and think about what we need. Try and take a moment to consider your needs for your growth and happiness.

5. Reflect

sunset
Photo by Jordan Wozniak from Unsplash

The last point I have is to reflect. Trust me, reflection is so valuable. I never really took moments to reflect on myself and my progress until this semester. I mean, on our own and doing our best? Check. Attending classes in a pandemic? Double-check. The progress is amazing, so be sure you celebrate yourself and your growth. Just look at how far you’ve come and how far you’ll go! Take a moment and reflect on all of your achievements.

Overall, I think we can all agree that this semester was a bit difficult, especially during a pandemic. As the sun sets on this semester, take some time and use these tips to help you feel refreshed and ready for summer and the future!

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Shaylee Stout is a junior at Florida State studying psychology and public health. She was born and raised in small-town Port St. John, Florida, on the Space Coast. She loves exploring new places, vibing to music and Chris Pratt.
Her Campus at Florida State University.