Stop Feeling Guilty for Prioritizing Yourself

By Annie Condodina

This is the easiest time in your life to feel lost. Your to-do list never ends, your laundry piles up, you’re constantly waiting for the weekend, and then there’s that impending sense of FOMO at all times. How can we reconcile both making sure that we uphold our grades (after all, you’re at school to go to school) but not feel like we’re about to spiral?

Here’s the thing that everyone forgets during college: going to bed early isn’t a crime. You’re not doing college wrong if you’re not pulling all-nighters and waiting ‘til the sun comes up to fall into your twin XL. Granted, some majors may have an easier workload than others. But if you can do so, just go to sleep.

If you work or intern during the semester, that’s amazing! It’s hard to do, and even harder to keep a level-head while doing it. It’s not the end of the world to take time off if there’s too much on your plate right now. And you certainly shouldn’t be sacrificing your grades while doing it. Remind yourself that being an undergrad is a full-time position. You’re a student - yes, that is an occupation.

Lastly, sometimes the quick-fix self-care trends won’t cut it. If you’re really feeling down on yourself, one face mask, a couple squares of dark chocolate, and a nap won’t cure it all at once. Take advantage of on-campus resources like counseling services to figure out the root of all of this. The only way to find a solution is to seek out help for the problem. If you find yourself feeling nervous, grab a trusted friend to accompany you. Though your friends may not be able to actively help you as a licensed professional would, they can provide much-needed support during a difficult time.

Making yourself a priority seems difficult, but the reality is that college is one of the only times that this is truly acceptable. It is all about you,and there is nothing wrong with that. Take advantage of being at a point in your life where your independence is an excuse to be selfish sometimes. Neglecting yourself now will only set a poor precedent for post-grad you. So stop feeling guilty.