As the semester comes to a close and finals week draws near, it's likely you feel burned out, unmotivated and overwhelmed as you try to finish strong.
There are a million cheesy saying and quotes you will probably hear over the course of the next few weeks—from ‘all you can do is your best’ to ‘everything happens for a reason’ and ‘believe in yourself’—and your inclination may be to respond in annoyance and irritation, but the reality is that the sayings are mostly true.
Getting through the end of the school year is tough, but it is also doable. Push past the temptation to check out, manage your time in the best way possible, get help where you need it and take care of yourself.
It’s important to remember that your health comes first, and it’s hard to succeed in anything if you aren’t taking care of your body. Allow yourself time to regroup and recharge during a time that is so saturated with to-do lists and boxes that need to be checked.
Prioritize your sleep schedule, a diet that fuels your body well and taking breaks from studying and completing assignments to partake in activities that make you feel good. If you enjoy art, take breaks to paint or doodle. If running helps you relieve stress, make time to go for a run.
Balance is important, so don’t feel guilty for investing in yourself and allowing your brain to think about things that relieve you of worry and doubt. The semester will be over before you know it, and you will feel so much better if you can look back at it with confidence that no matter the outcome, you did your best.
No one is perfect, and it’s likely at least one thing is going to go wrong for you within the next few weeks. It’s okay if you have moments of frustration, disappointment, anxiety and dissatisfaction, but don’t let those moments of negativity overpower you.
Ultimately, your worth is not found in any number—whether it be a test grade or GPA—and despite what happens during finals week, you are no less worthy of rest, kindness and a pat on the back for getting through another semester. Intentionally work to believe that these things are true, and they apply to you just as much as they apply to everyone else.
Editorials represent the majority view of The Plainsman's editorial board and do not necessarily represent that of the entire newsroom.
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