There’s a certain point in everyone’s college career where it seems to drag—writing even a short paper feels like writing a book, your eyes start to zone out when you’re reading, and you wonder if you really want that Bachelor’s Degree that badly (SPOILER: most of the time you do want that diploma). And then, a realization hits—you don’t hate college, you’re burned out.Â
And this has, and to a certain extent still is, happening to me. I got the sophomore slump, something I never thought was possible due to my work ethic and passion for education. But instead of dwelling on how I felt like a failure and constantly questioning if I was even the right major, I decided to take the slump and turn it into self-care. And you can too. So before you pull a Rory Gilmore circa season 6, steal a yacht and drop out, here are some topics for loving school again after burnout.
Understand what’s going onÂ
Many people who are overworked and suffering from burnout are somewhat prideful because they are “super-human.” Understanding that what you are experiencing is normal, flexible, and real can be the first step in healing.Â
Talk to someone if you need to
A lot of my burnout was related to my anxiety and depression. I ended up consulting my doctors for ways to manage what was going on–not just for the sake of my education, but for the sake of my well-being. Mental health is one of the most precious things we have–and we’ve got to protect it.Â
Boundaries!
Turn off that group chat, log off your work’s slack channel, and close your email at the end of the day. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that most things can wait.Â
Look into finishing your degree early (or, at the very least, have an end date in sight)
I’m on track to graduate a semester early! This is thanks to the dual enrollment classes I took in high school but dropping a minor or picking up some summer classes are also an option. It won’t be feasible for everyone, so instead, know how much you have left. Make it specific, count the number of classes left, put a reminder on your phone if you need it.Â
Change things upÂ
Take a fun elective, study abroad, or try out a new extracurricular. Even something small like changing your go-to study spot can refresh your brain. The Sophomore slump stems from the fact that we’ve been doing this for two years! Change up your routine, and you’ll be surprised how exciting college be.Â
Burnout might be one of the hardest parts of college –and yet, every single one of us goes through it. You aren’t alone. It is temporary, and you can get through it.Â
Please reach out to the counseling center or a helpline if you need help.Â