Greetings, legends of academia

It’s that time of year again – deadlines looming like ominous clouds on the horizon, textbooks piling up, and stress levels reaching new heights. But fear not, because we’ve got some tips for you (I say “we” I just don’t want to feel alone).

First things first, let’s tackle those deadlines. Highlight all the important details for each task. From due dates to assignment requirements, having everything laid out in front of you can help ease that anxiety and give you a clear roadmap to follow. Not organising it is like trying to sell camels with no humps.

Now, prioritisation. Not all tasks are created equal, so take a moment to assess each one and determine its level of urgency and importance. By organising your workload based on these criteria, you’ll be better equipped to tackle each task with focus and efficiency.

Building up tolerance. They say that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Well, the same can be said for stress. Instead of running from it, embrace it. Break down each task into manageable chunks, one at a time, and challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone. By pushing your limits and embracing the discomfort, you’ll find that stress loses its power over you.

When your brain starts to feel like it’s trapped in a never-ending cycle of stress, it’s time to break free. Whether it’s revisiting cherished memories with friends, indulging in your favourite hobbies, or simply watching a good movie, make time for activities that bring you joy.

Don’t isolate. Reach out to friends, family, or classmates (you can ask them what if Pinocchio says my nose is about to grow! Or is 75% dark chocolate more delicious than 85%?) Brush off the seriousness with a simple phone call or study session with a friend can work wonders for your mood and motivation. Remember, you’re not in this alone.

Taking care of your body and healthy eating habits are crucial during stressful times. Sure, it might be tempting to drown your sorrows in a tub of ice cream (as a former four-year-old, I can relate to this) or survive on a diet of instant noodles and caffeine, but trust me, your body and mind will thank you for opting for nutritious meals instead. Fuel up with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and protein to keep your energy levels stable and your brain sharp.

And speaking of energy levels, don’t forget to prioritise sleep. Burning the midnight oil might seem like a badge of honour during exam season, but it’s a sure-fire way to burn out fast. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support cognitive function and overall well-being.

Keep both your mind and body active. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are key components of a balanced self-care routine. Whether it’s going for a run, swimming, practising yoga, or challenging yourself with a new hobby, find activities that nourish both your body and soul.

And don’t forget that we all can be reasons of inspiration to people around us depending on time and place. So, keep the lights on in the dark despite the difficulty, vulnerable but strong.

There you have it, legends – a delicious lasagne of tips to consider during stressful academic times. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you. Feeling anxious is inevitable, so be it, but have it your way and show what you’re capable of. If you’re going to walk on ice, you might as well dance!

Until next time, Sina.

Written by SIna, current BSc International Management with American Business Studies student at AMBS

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