With the start of the academic year, students all over campus are stressing about midterms, prioritizing a work-life balance and fueling their bodies. If you find yourself in one or more of these categories, know you’re not alone. From practicing self-compassion to effective goal-setting, here are some mindful habits to incorporate into your daily routine for academic and personal success.
Set clear and manageable goals
Goal setting — whether for your academic or personal life — can be counterproductive if done without intention. By setting both short- and long-term goals, you can celebrate small victories while boosting your motivation. First, decide what you want to accomplish and outline clear steps to reach that goal. Create steps that motivate you to keep going through obstacles, and adjust goals if necessary. Don’t forget to check in with yourself and re-evaluate whether you’re heading in the right direction. Reaching goals will not happen overnight, so give yourself the time and kindness needed to challenge yourself.
Practice time management
Life at Vanderbilt can feel overwhelming, with exams, homework and applications taking up most of your time. Without effective time management skills and keeping track of your responsibilities, success is out of reach. Whether using a physical planner or online platforms like Google Calendar or Notion, having a space to organize your schedule ensures you don’t miss a deadline. Moreover, time management skills help you prioritize time for self-care and study breaks, delegate tasks, set priorities and prevent procrastinating.
Create a study routine
The rigor of Vanderbilt classes can be a rude awakening from your high school experience. Even for Vanderbilt upperclassmen, each class might have a different structure and time commitments that you aren’t used to. Discovering a study routine that works for you — whether it’s studying in a group or solo, in the morning or at night, or breaking up sessions versus long study marathons — can make comprehension much more achievable. Never underestimate the power of the right study setting. Explore Vanderbilt’s different libraries to find the vibe that best suits your style, or let a nearby café’s coffee and treats motivate you through those tedious assignments.
Try mindful meditation
When you feel overwhelmed by all your responsibilities, try mindful meditation: getting in touch with your emotions and understanding the root of conflict without judgment. By simply searching for mediation videos online, an abundance of support and guidance is at your fingertips. Vanderbilt also offers a free subscription to Headspace, an online application for mental health and meditation.
Prioritize a healthy sleep schedule
Sleep needs vary between individuals, but the underlying message stays the same: Even if your days are overflowing with work and commitments, you must prioritize a healthy sleep schedule to empower your mind and body. Sleep improves cognitive functions, overall mood and academic performance. If you find yourself studying all hours of the night and lethargic the next day, your effort is essentially wasted. Even if it means staying in on a Friday night or going to sleep earlier than you’re used to, re-evaluate whether your current sleep schedule truly benefits your overall welfare.
Stay active and fueled
A healthy diet and exercise routine is crucial to leading a fulfilling, holistic life. Try out the gyms in the Commons Center, Alumni Hall or Rec to get your body moving. Think about the activity as a reward for your body. Make the most of your walks to class by romanticizing your surroundings, listening to music or incorporating strength exercises. Exercise and nutrition go hand in hand. Explore Campus Dining and Taste of Nashville options to see what’s out there.
Practice self-compassion
Above all, practicing self-compassion can be a cornerstone of success and happiness at Vanderbilt. There will always be another exam or assignment, so checking in with your emotions and mental health allows you to better understand where you are at. Adjusting to new classes (and an unfamiliar environment if you’re a first-year) will take time, so don’t rush it and give yourself time to be fully present in the moment. Give yourself grace!
Whether you need to check in with yourself or restructure your daily routine, these mindful habits can help you open yourself to new opportunities and strengthen your mental well-being. As you navigate the stress of academics, remember to take time for yourself. Embracing these habits will start you on the lifelong journey of self-growth, compassion and daring to grow.
Editor’s note: Student Care Coordination has drop-in hours for two hours per day — Monday through Friday — and meetings are available by appointment. If you or anyone you know needs immediate and urgent help, resources like the UCC Crisis Support line can be reached at 615-322-2571, and the national Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be contacted by dialing 988.
