Finding Your Flow

Managing the madness of mid-semester using momentum, strategy, and support

Hey Union! The last few weeks have been an absolute rollercoaster for many of us. Staff are trying to manage the complications that come with a new school year as it very quickly kicks into gear. Faculty are finally getting into the rhythm of classes; students have finally begun to recognize what study strategies work best for them. It feels as though we have finally settled into a flow that works, and yet there are steadily more assignments, more projects, papers, tests; all the while the basic tasks required for each class remain. The pressure may feel strong at points, but trust me, there are so many people in your life who believe in you, even when it’s hard to believe in yourself. If you're feeling overwhelmed, here are some ideas to get your mind out of its funk.

Prioritize

Take a moment to reflect on what task is the most important at the moment. If your most important assignment feels too big, either break it down or find a smaller piece you can finish in a short amount of time. That will get something off your plate and help you move into a focused state. This is called the snowball method. Start small and knock it out of the way, slowly gaining momentum as you complete each assignment. The feeling of accomplishment after finishing the last task can help motivate the start of the next project. 

Find a buddy

Sometimes starting homework alone is difficult. As someone who is easily distracted by my own thoughts, having another person with me keeps me grounded. In a way, seeing someone else focused inspires me to get started, and it keeps me motivated to continue. I know that if they can do it, I can do it too. 

Step away

Take a minute to separate yourself from the stressor. I'm not saying leave it for a whole day (unless you need it). What I'm talking about is taking a moment to step away and think about something else. Once you've had a moment to breathe, relax, play a game, sing a song, or talk to your friend, you can come back to where you were. Afterward, try to make a list so you can focus on one task at a time. 

Do something random

If making a list doesn't work, you can create a random wheel of fate with your tasks and see what needs to be done next. Sometimes it's fun to pick the most interesting project you have and start there, or save it for last, so you have something to kind of look forward to (not that anyone's particularly excited about homework, but hey if it works it works). 

Talk to professors

Remember to talk to your teachers. Go to office hours. Send an email about the questions you have. Almost every professor I've ever had has told me this multiple times. They are here to help us grow, learn, and thrive. It’s okay to ask for help, no one can do everything on their own. Asking for help is a special kind of strength.

These are probably all ideas and suggestions you have heard before; however, it is good to have a reminder every once in a while because life gets tough, and having a list of what to try is always a good start. 

Bye bye for now Ufam! 

(had to do it for Mason.)
By: Cam Burgos