Guide on how to balance college

Whether it’s a love or hate relationship, for many of us school is a stepping stone into our dream careers. But managing a full course load isn’t easy- with clubs, jobs, and friends you can quickly get overwhelmed by it all. With each passing week, it can get increasingly difficult to get yourself back on track as more things pile on. The worst thing that can happen is getting burnt out as a result, and feeling lost/a lack of motivation to keep going.

In this article, I will be sharing a comprehensive guide on how to handle it all. Read on if you want to discover how to balance college life. Class is now in session!

1. Find your north star

By north star, I mean taking the time to figure out the overarching purpose that will motivate you to do the things you don't like as much. Want to travel the world after graduating? Plan on applying to med or law school? Don't be afraid to dream big- I'm a firm believer that if you work hard you can achieve anything you set your mind to. (Tip: the more specific it is, the better) It can also be as simple as motivating

Then, write down this goal. Make a cool lock screen, desktop wallpaper, or write it in your planner. Studies show that you're more likely to achieve your goal when you write it out. Keep this in mind during those late-night study sessions or when you feel stressed. Don't forget what you're working towards.

2. Plan and Calendar (everything)

My calendar is key to my time management skills and balancing all my other responsibilities outside of school. Whether it's digital or physical, it's best to have a place of reference for all your deadlines and meetings. Most teachers will give you a syllabus, take the time to transfer all that information including their office hours. This way, when you start to join different organizations on campus, you can avoid any overlaps and plan when you're going to study.
If I have a day where I have no classes, the night before I will plan out what I will do for the entire day. That way when I wake up, I'm auto-pilot and don't have to worry about if I will have time to do everything because I already divided my time. How I like to do it is getting a white sheet of paper and writing down all my tasks by most to least priority. Then after scheduling any meetings and eating breaks, I insert the tasks to block of times I feel like I can best do it.

3. List Self-Care Practices

It can be easy to neglect self-care when you put other priorities before yourself. All the little things like pulling all-nighters, or forgetting to each lunch can add up. You might become burnt out before you realize it, and it's important to catch yourself when it happens.
That's why I find it important to make a list of self-care practices. Whether it's taking 30 minutes to budget your money for the week or going to the gym, these will positively impact your life for the better. I personally take the Sunday of every week to reset. This means cleaning my space, replying to emails, and setting goals I would like to achieve for the upcoming week. When I get stressed, because of my list, I know what I need to do in order to get out of that state. I highly recommend this, as it has helped me bounce back many times.

4. Journal Your Feelings

Journaling has helped me articulate everything from my convoluted thoughts to emotional moments. Sometimes, the only person who can be there for you is yourself. Having an outlet to express how I feel outside of my mind has given me the opportunity to become more self-reflective. No one is perfect, but what is a true testament of your character is how you get back up.
In addition, journaling can teach you how to become your own best friend. You definitely are growing up in college, and friends can come and go. Learning how to love yourself is so important and can help you recognize your worth!