I would label myself as a “perfectionist”, if one thing doesn’t go as planned or I don’t feel as though I am accomplishing enough a sense of guilt floods over me. In high school, it was easier for me to tackle my studies mixed with extra circulars. But in college, this is a whole new game. It can benefit you in ways to excel in your studies but in another way can overwhelm your whole way of thinking.
One would assume that in college we are taking fewer classes and shorter “school” day times, which should lead me to have ample time for other things to participate in and study during the day! I once thought this as well. With now being a second-year college student I haven’t felt more stressed out in school since now. The ideas are constantly blurring through my head about what I need to get done every day for my classes, preparing social media posts for positions, finding time to study, meetings to go to, thinking about my future goals, etc. It honestly can get exhausting.
I feel as though how I feel can be very relatable to many other college students. We get to the point of wanting everything to go a certain way and when it doesn’t or starts to feel like too much, it can lead us to procrastinate and for certain burnout. However, I have found ways that best help me stay on track and have a positive mindset in these hard times.
The first is dedicating certain days to certain classes. Besides having various assignments due throughout the week, prioritize one day to get all the work for that class and stay on top of studying for future requirements in the class like tests or quizzes coming up. The best way I do this is actually with Quizlet. Making myself online flashcards, studying them, and testing myself. Doing this just once a day can greatly benefit retaining the small things in your important classes.
The next thing I love to do is make lots and lots of To-Do lists. It may be excessive but when I physically see what I need to get done and stay on top of it helps me get into the mindset of staying focused. Simple ways I do this having a weekly whiteboard in my room with assignments and events, having an Excel sheet listed on my computer of every assignment each semester with specific details on what to do, and little “sticky notes” on my computer home screen with reminders for each day. The satisfaction of being able to cross off something on one of my lists takes just the smallest weight off my shoulders knowing that everything is slowly getting done.
And finally having a positive mindset. Knowing yourself that it will all eventually get done at some point and that you actually are not “perfect”. People make mistakes and if you know and feel you are trying your absolute best, that’s all that matters. Finding a balance that works for you and can help you succeed in whatever ways you need is most important. Everyone eventually will fall down, but it’s how you get back up and keep trying.