by ear Student Body,
First of all, take a deep breath – A great, big breath. Fill your lungs with much needed air and let it all out along with all of that negativity that is silently stewing inside of you. Take a few more, if need be.
It’s nearing the end of the semester, which means finals. Last minute projects and all of that craziness in between. This is also the time where our stress and doubt will seem like a little too much to handle. Trust me, a random cry session or anxiety-driven rage is not an uncommon thing for us college students.
You’ll be looking at your stack of notes and looming pile of textbooks – You might be thinking that if you close your eyes, and wish just a little bit harder than normal, that all of it will go away. You’ll wish that your need to get an education may not be as prevalent as it once was because the sheer amount of work that’s ahead of you is just really not up your alley.
So, in these moments of doubt and trouble, or when you’re on a study binge for that one ridiculously hard class, I want you look at the following list of statements:
- No, you are not “stupid” or “dumb”, you’re actually quite intelligent.
- That Netflix series will be there once you’re finished. You’re really not missing out on anything.
- Take a break and hydrate/nourish yourself. There really is no point in fainting or getting sick because the work will still be there afterwards.
- Yes, your education is worth it.
- Do not do this for anyone else, but yourself. It’s your education and you will be benefiting your future by getting good grades.
- You’re doing an awesome job.
- Feeling overwhelmed is normal, so stepping away from your work for a little while is okay.
- PROCRASTINATION IS NOT YOUR FRIEND. THAT PARTICULAR DARK SIDE IS NOT WORTH THE PAIN NO MATTER WHAT YOU TELL YOURSELF.
- Seriously, take a break.
- Tackle the hardest bit first, before anything else. That sense of accomplishment you get afterwards will help you push through the rest of the work.
- You should be very proud of yourself for the sheer amount of work you’ve done so far.
- You’re getting your education and going to college, and not a lot of people can say that.
- At least try and get some sleep because a sleep-deprived you is not a good you.
- No, you cannot run simply on coffee and energy drinks. Neither your body, nor your bank account, can tolerate it.
- Sit up straight. No one needs to be looking or feeling like the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
- While you’re at it, stand and stretch because we both know you’re in an uncomfortable position right now.
- Breathe. You’re almost finished.
We’ve all come this far, so I am positive that we can make it to the end in one piece – more or less. Just keep imagining that proverbial finish line and what it’s going to feel like when you’re completely done.
You may not believe in you, but I certainly do.
