Ways I Mentally Prepare and Cope with the Winter Semester
Isabella Cannon
| 4 min read
In my experience, the winter or spring semester of college is more challenging both mentally and physically than the fall. Why is that? It could be the lack of sunshine, the weather, fewer fun events, decreased motivation or the tendency to want to hibernate during the winter.
There are many factors that play into this. However, having a bad winter semester doesn’t have to be the reality. As I prepare for my last semester of school, here are some tips to finish strong.
Reflect on past experiences
My first step to make change is taking time to reflect on past experiences. To get ready for the winter semester, I take time to write on these prompts:
- What did I like about it?
- What did I not like?
- Where did I struggle the most?
- Where could I improve?
- What were my daily habits like?
Get into a balanced routine
After I have reflected, I take time to identify my priorities. One of the best ways to make improvements is to adjust my everyday habits. I created a realistic daily routine. This includes what time I wake up and go to sleep, my classes, clubs or activities and even intentional self-care time.
I consider how my actions can affect my mood and physical and mental health. Here are practical habits I have added into my routine:
- Prioritize sleep: Going to bed before 11 p.m.
- Screen time: Not using my phone the first 30 minutes I wake up in the morning and last 30 minutes before bed.
- Pick classes that work for your preferences: Start at 9:30 a.m. instead of 8 a.m. to give myself time to wake up and get going before class.
- Self-care: Create times in my routine designated to working out, seeing friends or relaxing.
- Food: Meal prep healthy lunches to avoid overspending or eating junk food on campus.
Accountability
Having a well-rounded routine feels great and helps improve my productivity. Without accountability, my routine will fall apart easily. No matter how confident I feel in my ability to stick to a new routine, asking people for help and accountability will go a long way. I share my routine with one or two close friends who will provide encouragement and reminders.
Physical activity
Physical activity is key to getting through the winter semester. When the weather gets cold, skies are grey, and the snow is up to my knees, it can be difficult to get enough physical activity. I find creative ways to get exercise in on a regular basis to improve my mood and energy levels.
Natural light
One of the reasons many people get the winter blues is due to a lack of light. I like to go on outdoor walks when the sun is out and sit by the window in class.
Beat procrastination
Procrastination is a struggle for many college students. By the time I get through fall finals and holiday break, I often feel unmotivated. Tracking assignments and projects in my planner and getting assignments done at least one day before they are due are some practical things that have helped give me peace of mind and stay on top of things.
Group study sessions
Isolation can make the winter semester hard. I find myself making excuses to not see friends or participate in social outings. Group study sessions are a great way to get myself around others while being productive. I’ve found it’s easier to justify having social time with friends when you can work toward a common goal. Meeting up at my favorite coffee or lunch spot makes it fun, too.
Get creative
During school, I am constantly using the verbal and analytical parts of my brain when doing tasks like reading, writing and calculations. I pull out a pen and paper and start drawing, coloring or creating when I need a mental break. Coloring can improve health by promoting mindfulness and reliving stress.
Avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms
When I feel sad, unmotivated or tired, I have the tendency to cope with those feelings in unhealthy ways. Some unhealthy practices I avoid include doomscrolling on social media, binge eating and negative self-talk.
Celebrate the little victories
I find it refreshing to celebrate little victories. While I do my best to stick to my routine, I'm careful not to let one setback tear me down. I celebrate the small wins like getting out of bed on time or getting a good grade. I remind myself to keep moving forward one step at a time.
Photo credit: Isabella Cannon
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