Keeping a Balance in College: How to Stay Focused and Have Fun

Starting college can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. For the first time in your life, you’ll be in charge of all your decisions. If you want to stay out partying all night, there are no scowling parents waiting to scold you when you return. You can eat pizza every day, for every meal if that is your heart’s desire. Unfortunately, you are also responsible for hauling yourself to class and scheduling in study time. Between your responsibilities and your desire to socialize, it can be difficult to manage your education and still enjoy the best years of your life. So how do you keep a balance?

1. Make a schedule. This sounds absurdly simple, but in truth, it can mean the difference between success and failure in college. Of course, you have a class schedule already, and it probably involves rising at the crack of noon. However, afternoon classes do not mean you can stay out until dawn and sleep all morning. Make sure you get to bed at a decent hour during the week, just like you would at home, and save the partying for the weekends. That way, you’ll have the morning hours free for study (you’ll be the most productive then anyway) and you can still spend your evenings with friends.

2. Limit activities, at least initially. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the idea of joining every club on campus. You want to participate and meet people and there’s nothing wrong with that. However, you need to be wary of stretching yourself too thin and burning out, so limit yourself to one or two activities until you get a handle on your course-load.

3. Eat right and exercise. This is, in fact, the very last thing on your mind. But staying healthy can make a huge difference when it comes to happiness and productivity. If you ingest nothing but Cheetos and margaritas, you’re going to notice some drastic changes, both physically and mentally. Bad eating habits and lack of exercise can lead to weight gain and lethargy, not to mention fatigue, irritability, and depression. You’re in your prime! Fuel your body with fruits, veggies, complex carbs, and lean meats and make some time to bike around campus or play some folf with friends. Your body and mind will reward you with increased energy and focus.

4. Don’t stress. Students are quick to succumb to stress and anxiety, especially when finals hit, but try to relax. All you’re going to do is psyche yourself out, stay up all night, and perform poorly the next day. It’s like a self-fulfilling prophecy. Instead, do a little yoga or see if your campus is one of the many that offers discount massage services. Even taking a nap in the sun can mellow you out. Then return to your studies in the right mindset to learn. Determination and confidence are much better tools than nervousness and worry.

5. Call home. Between hormones, sudden freedom, and a desire to experiment, college can get a little crazy, so ring mom and dad once in awhile to gain a little perspective. Remember that there are people who love you and have your best interest at heart (plus, they’ve been there and often have great advice to offer if you just ask). Don’t allow yourself to get mired down in the demands of professors and the drama of friends. College is a time for hard work, but it’s also a time for fun. As long as you keep in mind that it’s just one more step in your life, a transitory period that will soon be over, you can keep a balance, stay focused, and still have a great time.

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