Balancing Books & Burnout: How to Stay Grounded During Exams

Exam season has crept up quickly. It can be hard to balance lectures, exercise, rest, and other responsibilities, and it’s important to be able to take a step back and make time for yourself. We want to help you with that balance.

Here are some tips on how to balance your study load to avoid burnout and stay zen during exam season. While they may seem or obvious, it’s often the basics that have the biggest impact.

1. Sleep

Like many students, you might feel like you’re at your most productive in the middle of the night, but all-nighters and late night study sessions can wear you down faster than you’d think. It’s important to get a regular 8 hours of sleep.

Even when 8 hours is unattainable, prioritizing your sleep is essential. Getting on a regular sleep schedule – meaning going to sleep and waking up at approximately the same time – will make waking up so much easier, and your brain more productive throughout the day.

Additionally, don’t underestimate naps. They can be useful for giving your brain a nice reset. A small boost in energy from a 15-30 minute nap can help with the rest of your study session. Set a timer and close your eyes, you’ll thank yourself when you’re not falling asleep at your desk!

If you want to improve your sleep but aren’t sure how, here are some tips on how to rest well in a busy environment.

2. Eat Well 

Proper nutrients can make all the difference in your day; after all, they fuel your body and your brain. Missing meals when they aren’t convenient is an easy habit to fall into, but it’s not helpful long term. Make sure to eat balanced and enjoyable meals to keep you going.

Pack snacks, drink lots of water, and remember your 3 meals!

3. Socialize 

It’s important during times of stress that you keep yourself surrounded by your community. Calling a family member, chatting with your roommate, or going for a walk with a friend are good methods to relieve stress. These small interactions and activities, although they may sound insignificant, can make a huge difference in your mental health.

These breaks will fill your cup and boost productivity. Remember that many of your friends and peers are experiencing the same stress as you, and getting through it together is so much easier than getting through it alone.

4. Treat Yourself

During tense times, it’s essential to treat yourself. A treat can be whatever you want it to be. Whether it’s going to a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try, buying the shirt you’ve been eyeing, or watching a movie that’s been on your list for weeks, any way of recognizing your hard work is valuable for motivation and bringing a little piece of joy to a stressful period.

If you’d bring a treat to a friend who’s been having a hard week, why shouldn’t you do the same for yourself? It’s guaranteed to boost your mood which can only make you a better student.

5. Mindset

It’s easy to criticize yourself for having a bad study day or not getting the test result you were hoping for. You might not be able to bar those thoughts from your brain, but you can try to remain optimistic and be kind to yourself. Keep in mind that you’re trying your hardest and setbacks are natural. These setbacks are an opportunity to learn – maybe it’s time to try a new study strategy, like flashcards or practice tests, or maybe what you really needed was a short break or a good night’s sleep.

Speaking kindly to yourself and maintaining a positive attitude will help you get through obstacles and maintain a productive headspace. It’s easier said than done, but try remembering that this time is temporary.

You’ve got this!