1. Lay Out Clothes the Night Before

I always manage to be rushed in the mornings and that usually comes from saying I have nothing to wear. The grogginess from just waking up, no caffeine running through me yet, and my brain going a million miles a minute thinking of what I have to do today doesn’t help. But, if I pick it out the night before it takes one decision off my plate and makes the morning easier. It’s something small, but makes all the difference.

Here’s some inspiration for you:

2. Schedule Office Hours Into My Week

They’re just as important as class. Building relationships, asking as many questions as I need, and learning a concept more deeply is the best thing I can do for myself. Knowing me, if I don’t write it down in my planner like another class, I won’t be consistent. By week two, I plan to have it scheduled out so I actually go. I always regret waiting until the end of the semester when I need the help. Getting a headstart always makes me feel better and pays off in the end.

3. Start Studying Two Weeks Before Exam

I constantly cram before exams, stay up all night, and have wayyy too much caffeine. That stops this semester. I’m determined to ease into studying earlier so I: retain the material better, am less stressed, and actually set myself up for success.

4. Meal Prep Every Sunday

Taking an hour or two every Sunday to prep breakfasts and lunches makes a huge difference. Everyone is busy during the week. Classes, work, clubs- it’s a lot. I want to make it easier for future me to eat a good meal without it adding to my stress.

5. Something with a Friend Every Week

Watching an episode of a show, doing our nails, small craft, having them over for dinner- it doesn’t have to be a big event. Something that’s low effort is just what I need during the semester. I also know I need my support system- and they’ll need me too. Reaching out for the little things is what helps a friendship continue building.

6. Stick to a Weekly Cleaning List

My least favorite chore, but one of the most important. Putting together a small list to split with my roommate (and actually stick to) is necessary. I’m keeping it simple and effective, 2-3 things a week. A couple examples could be:

Clean the toilet
Vacuum
Do the dishes
Wipe down the counters
Clean the AirFryer

7. Work Out 4 Times a Week

Working out isn’t always fun for me- but I always feel 10x better after. Doing 3-4 exercises that I actually enjoy and keeping things simple is what works best for me. Things like 20 minute incline walks, an ab-routine that works, reps high and weights lower. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just consistent.

8. Three Homemade Dinners a Week

I love trying new recipes, but I also love sticking with ones that feel comfortable. I need real foods that aren’t just frozen meals or takeout. Setting aside an hour in the evening to make a delicious meal is worth it. Bonus points if I make it with friends! Cooking with others is always fun (and yummy).

Air-fried Salmon with Cheddar Broccoli Rice

9. Speak to Myself Like I would a Friend

I would never tell a friend a B on a grade isn’t good enough. So why would I say that to myself? This semester, I really want to prioritize lifting myself up on the small wins rather than downplaying my accomplishments.

10. Something Creative/Fun Every Week

I’m the furthest thing from an artist, but I’ve found things that require no skills and are still so fun. It lets me explore interests without any pressure. Some weeks it's trying a new nail design, making a trinket with air-dry clay, adding fabric or beads to a top, or even just coloring a couple of pictures. It always helps me destress and I know I need that when assignments start piling up.

10 Rules I’m Giving Myself This Semester