Ripple Effect

Wondering how to survive another not-so-normal-semester? Hope is in the air, but let’s face it...some Zooming is still a reality for the start of the semester. For some this means motivation is lower, procrastination is the new normal, and organization is challenging. It’s that time of year to make New Year’s resolutions to be a “better” student. ”I will make detailed to-do lists, fine-tune my calendar maintenance, and implement new study techniques (buy more flashcards!)” Of course, these are useful and effective strategies that can lead to desired outcomes. But what I think really matters and feels foundational right now is examining how you choose to take care of yourself. 

What choices do you make that bring you clarity, energy, and help you function at your best? 

What do I mean exactly? Check out a few examples of “self-care” choices that my students made last semester.

• Woke up 30 minutes before a Zoom instead of rolling out of bed 5 minutes before. “Now I’m getting out of bed for ‘me time’ not Zoom, and this frames my day in a whole new way!”

• Focused on the habits of how I do my work and less on my grades. “My habits stressed me out more than my grades!”

• Worked a job off-campus. “It reminded me that I am more than a student.” 

• Checked the following day’s agenda before bed each night.” It helped me fall asleep because I knew what to expect the next day.”

These choices are grounded in feeling better. And as you know, when you feel better, you are more likely to make a choice that is in your best interest, like keeping up with your calendar and to-do list. Self-care has a ripple effect. So, as you start this semester, ask yourself, “What choices can I make that bring me clarity, energy and help me function at my best?”