Like so many others, the winter quarter has been rough. With cloudy, cold weather, an overwhelming number of readings and essays, and being the shortest quarter of the three main, there’s just so much to do in such little time. I have found myself constantly working on stuff for my classes that I have neglected doing anything for my own enjoyment.
As an avid reader, finding time to read throughout my day is probably my favorite thing on earth, but when I have to read one hundred pages for my American Lit class in 2 days on top of writing a philosophy paper and a paper for my intercultural lit class, things like my own books and tv shows I want to watch get pushed to the side. In a lot of ways, I have found this really hard. Reading and watching tv have been great ways for me to make time for myself in past quarters, but that just hasn’t been the case this time. I’m sure a lot of fellow students have felt this way this past quarter; the things you like to do get sidelined as you try to juggle the things that need to get done. While I haven’t perfected the way to make time for hobbies in a busy schedule, here are some of the things I learned: 1. Use mealtimes as a way to do things you want. I will admit, I have found myself reading articles or book chapters for class as I eat lunch or dinner, but I try to make a conscious effort not to. You have to eat a meal sometime during the day, and it’s the perfect time for a personal break. Whether your meal is fifteen minutes, or an hour and your break is scrolling though TikTok or reading a chapter of your favorite book, it’s 100% worth it. Because my personal schedule is so busy, I use meals as a dedicated time to catch up with friends during the week. Even a small moment with the things that bring you joy is better than no time at all. 2. Don’t feel guilty about not having time. Because of how busy my schedule is, I often find myself only having longer periods of free time around 9 or 10 pm each night. Usually, I am exhausted at this point and while I have the time to do things like read or watch an episode of a show, I just don’t have the energy. This makes me feel guilty. I want to but I can’t. I’ve come to learn that not having the time to do something is okay. You shouldn’t feel guilty. It’s okay to choose something like sleep over other things if that’s what you need. Just know you are doing your best and there is always tomorrow. 3. Look forward to the future with your hobbies. While it can be discouraging to not be able to do what you love in a moment, remember that it won’t be like this forever. School is overwhelming but recognize that with each quarter comes a new workload, schedule, and chance to do the things that you love. Continue to be excited about things. I know for me personally; I always get excited for new books from my favorite authors even if I know it will be months before I have time to pick up a book. Just because you can’t do something now, doesn’t mean you should give it up. As we wind down winter quarter and move into both spring break and spring quarter, I encourage you to find little moments with your hobbies and passions. Find the joys in life when you can and always take care of yourself to the best of your abilities.
0 Comments
|
SUWC Blog AuthorsAny posts on the SUWC Blog are authored by current consultants working to improve, refine and perfect our practice as peer tutors. Find a Post!
January 2024
Categories |