As another academic term begins, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and swamped. As the stress of the finals season winds down slowly, it is important to renew yourself mentally. The new term can be a great opportunity to start afresh on a positive note. To make the most of the upcoming term, here are five tips to help you get started.
Refresh your study set-up
Refreshing your workspace, visually and mentally, is a very effective way to set a fresh perspective for the new term. Try decluttering and reorganizing your desk to help you get started. Focus on removing old papers and books you do not need anymore and introducing some new décor or supplies. Having a clean and organized workspace can add that extra boost you need to enhance your productivity. A fresh workspace will help you get into a fresh mindset and tackle the new term on a positive note.
Take time out for your hobbies
The exam season can be exhausting and draining; hence, it is important to find time for the things that might have gotten pushed to the side amidst the chaos that is finals season. The new term is just starting, and the academic load tends to be lighter this time of the year. This is the perfect time to pick up old hobbies or start new ones to help you maintain balance. Adding little joys to your life can create a big difference in the long term.
Start something new
The beginning of a new term is a fun time to find new personal goals and new interests. Try picking up a new hobby, joining a new club, or looking into new skills. New activities can help create a sense of excitement and purpose to keep you mentally motivated and energized throughout the time.
Do the fun things you have been pushing off
The light workload of the new term can also be a fantastic opportunity to get back into the things on your bucket list that you have been postponing due to academic stress. Whether it is weekend getaways, movie nights, game nights, or self-care activities, now is the perfect time to look into it. It does not have to be a big, time-consuming activity either. Small things like long walks and trying new food can be a great source of relaxation as well.
Be kind to yourself
Academic life is demanding, so it is crucial to appreciate and acknowledge the efforts you put in over the last term. As you begin the new term, it is important to be kind to yourself. Do not be too hard on yourself and let yourself get wallowed down. Celebrate small victories, take time out, have realistic goals, and most importantly, take care of yourself. Having a compassionate outlook on your academic journey will help you stay steady and positive over the new term.
As we wait for the cold grey skies to clear up, it can be a great time to get cozy and look inward to set a positive tone for the upcoming term. Don’t let the weather get you down, bundle up and find time to enjoy the little things in life. Whether it be refreshing your workspace, getting back to your hobbies, or having chill movie nights with friends, this is the perfect time to recharge yourself to be an academic weapon.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sanaa Shaikh is a third-year international student from India. She is studying Philosophy, Politics, and Economics with a minor in Spanish. Sanaa loves spontaneous trips, petting small animals, and starting new projects that she’ll never finish. Her favourite thing to do in Kelowna is getting ice cream downtown and chilling by the marina.
