How to Take Care of Yourself in University

I can't stress enough how hectic being in university can be. One second you are having fun during Orientation in September then suddenly, before you know it, you have 3 midterms and 5 labs due next week (cries in med lab 😔). As someone who has struggled with self-care during university researching for this article was very enlightening. So, I want you guys to try these hacks with me this September and see the difference it makes in your life! 

In the chaos of September - December it's hard to remember that life isn't ALL about university. Life is about having a good work-life balance, you are so much more than school and grades. Let me help you try to perfect this mindset. 

1. Prioritize Your Physical Health

Now, I am NOT trying to be basic. I know you hear the same things all the time: sleep well, eat well, and exercise. All of those issues are VERY important—that's why you hear them all the time.

Bring back bedtimes

I am taking you back to when you were a kid... because weren't we all the happiest then? Having a bedtime can seriously motivate you to finish all your work before a certain time since you KNOW right when it hits 11 p.m. you are in bed no matter what. This will also help your body's biological clock. Eventually, you will start to feel sleepy at the same time every night and automatically wake up earlier too. 

Waking up early isn't the only way to go. You know yourself

That being said, as someone who always loved the nighttime, I am so tired of people always saying going to sleep early and waking up early is the best way to be the most productive. And truly I have TRIED to be one of those 6 a.m. girlies but I simply do not work as well as I do at 3 a.m. If you are someone who knows that you work better at night and sleep better in the morning; do you! But before you make your ultimate decision try dabbling in both and see what actually works better for you and not what works for the TikTok influencers. 

What you put inside your body changes your mood and productivity

I know, I know, so far when you're reading this you are thinking; hmm she is saying all the basic things that everyone says. But truly! What you put inside your body will control how you feel. Like when I eat chips I feel so lazy and icky but when I opt for fruits I feel good about myself. But a treat at Wingstop every 2 weeks also never hurt anyone... 

Personal Hygiene

This is so important because it truly contributes to how I feel on the inside. Taking an everything shower can help your mood and make you feel productive on something that ISN'T school which is so important. Have a day of the week dedicated to taking care of yourself physically like a long shower, face mask, nail care, etc. Making yourself look good makes you feel good too. 

2. Time management

Have a Me Day

Plan your week when you are in school because there are just so many things you need to do. I like to plan certain tasks for specific days and I always make sure that I leave one day in which I either have no work to do or only a few tasks that will take me 2-3 hours. This leaves the rest of the day for me to relax, go out with my friends, or spend time with family. I like to leave at least Saturday for no schoolwork at all unless it's exam season. 

Something other than school

Have something outside of school, whether that be an extracurricular, the gym, or a job (because we all know we need money). You need something consistent that's not just your classes and weekly quizzes. Having a job—that you actually like—or a club that you belong to are great ways to get your mind off school. 

Treating university like a 9-5

Keeping a routine on campus and spending a good amount of hours at university can help you finish a lot of your work at school and you can leave school without having to think about working at home which can really help your mental health. I love it when I come home from university and have no more work to do, it's really like a 9-5 in which I leave all my work stress at work and relax at home. If you can manage to finish your work then please do! 

Evenings to yourself

I know mentioned having one day for relaxing/fun outings with family and friends but remember to have time for yourself throughout the week. I try to make time in the evenings for a good show or just chilling and doing nothing which really hits the spot sometimes. 

3. Financial Wellness 

Taking care of yourself also means taking care of your $$. 

Budget wisely

I've been guilty of staying all day on campus without packing a lunch which ends up in an expensive day of 'studying' at school. Try to pack lunch every time you come to university, even if it's just you going for one class because you never know how long you want to stay. Packing lunches will save you LOADS of money.

Me if I got back all the money I spent on food^ 

Plan for the Future

Think about your long-term financial goals and consider saving a portion of any income. Understanding and managing your finances can reduce your stress and provide a sense of security.

Well, guys that's all I have for you this time. Make sure you take care of yourself this school year!! Good Luck!