Finding A Balance: Your Personal Trapeze Act

As PR students, each and every one of us loves to stay busy – we know what we’re getting into. Just because we like the fast life of tackling assignments, scheduling interviews, spending hours in the office, working late at events, and studying for classes, doesn’t mean that it doesn’t catch up to us sometimes. With an internship, job, involvement in three student organizations, and five classes, I know what it’s like to feel the pressure of a busy schedule. Try out these three tips I rely on to stay sane and balanced during even the most hectic week:

1.     Create a positive vibe   

I personally believe that allowing yourself to be in a happy mindset is the number one way to relieve stress and stay focused. Don’t be afraid to indulge in a cliché. Light your favorite candles to spread a calming set and feel relaxed. Hang string lights around your desk or workspace so that you don’t have to be seated in harsh lighting 24/7. Treat yourself to your absolute favorite coffee or tea to keep you motivated on the task at hand.

 
2.     Make a timeline
Organization is key, so be sure to stay that way when it comes to your schedule. Write down all of the tasks you need to accomplish in order of importance, and with deadline in mind. Give yourself time before deadlines to revisit what you’ve created and make any edits, so that you can still send in your best work, even though you found it hard to find time to complete the assignment. I’m a huge fan of post-its, so I write down each individual task and deadline on a post-it and stick it to my wall. Once I finish the task, I remove the post-it! This is simple way of tracking everything you need to get done.

 
3.     Sleep!
All-nighters are never the answer. I have never pulled one off, and not sure I ever will. Incorporate a good night’s sleep into your schedule. You don’t need to declare a specific “bedtime,” but don’t overbook yourself for the entire day. It’s important that you get the proper rest you need, so that you can continue to put your best foot forward every morning when you wake up. Every day is a new day, and you may even find yourself with more creative ideas once you wake up!

It’s the easiest thing to become stressed during a college semester. Always remember that you’re doing all of these internships, student organizations, and classes to improve yourself, but including quality time with friends and catching up on your favorite TV shows is key to a successful schedule and a happy you!

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Staff Member Alyssa Guckin.