What a difference a couple of weeks makes! Not long ago, we were enjoying snow-free days and relatively mild weather, but now we’re buried under tons of snow, and the chill has set in deeply. Winter has truly arrived. The problem is, where does one find the time to flood a rink when the semester grind is in full swing? Between assignments, projects, and exams, the to-do list feels endless.
This post isn’t just about the snow and rinks, though—it’s about survival. It’s about pushing through the fog of a long semester and making it to the finish line.
Surviving the End-of-Semester Grind
No matter how overwhelming the workload feels, it’s important to step back and breathe. As much as we have to do, we also have time. Sometimes, taking a moment to decompress can work wonders. Whether it’s a quick nap, a hot meal, or a short walk, these small breaks can help you refocus and recharge.
My Go-To Strategy: The BAC (Big-Ass Calendar)
One of the tools that keeps me sane is my trusty BAC (Big-Ass Calendar). Planning out tasks and deadlines visually helps me map out a realistic schedule, making sure I don’t overdo it or burn out. By breaking tasks into manageable chunks and spreading them over time, I can avoid that dreaded “running on fumes” feeling.
Sleep: The Ultimate Productivity Hack
Sleep is non-negotiable. It’s tempting to cut corners on rest to squeeze in more work, but it’s counterproductive. Good sleep—not just quantity but quality—helps keep your mind sharp and your body resilient. Find the amount that works for you, and prioritize it.
When Life Happens
The truth is, no matter how prepared you are, life sometimes throws a wrench into the plan. For me, the weather has been perfect for flooding the rink, but time has been my enemy. Between juggling coursework, especially the demanding workload of my ceramics class, and everything else on my plate, I just haven’t been able to get to it.
And that’s okay. Sometimes, we can’t do it all. The key is to focus on what we can control, tackle one thing at a time, and remember that this busy season is temporary.
Closing Thoughts
This one’s short but sweet. If you’re reading this, hang in there! The end is near, and you’re closer to the finish line than you think. Take care of yourself, stay organized, and don’t forget to take moments to rest and recharge.
Stay strong,