Fall Reset
Photo by Mōhailani Peloso
Why the fall semester is the real New Years for college students.
It is that time of the year everyone! Many typically think of New Years as the time to reinvent themselves. For college students, you may see this as the fall semester. Time for new habits, new beginnings, and keeping our resolutions, but let us actually stick to them this time! Here are some ideas to kick off a more productive semester.
Clean Space Clean Mind
Research indicates that a clean space can actually lead to more organized thinking. The clutter around you can sometimes become distracting and make you overwhelmed. You might be thinking of everything you have to do, but your clothes are lying on the floor and papers spread across our desk. Taking a moment to reorganize and declutter helps clear physical and mental space, preparing you for the next few months of studying in that space.
Cleaning your space can also provide that sense of accomplishment. When you have that sense of accomplishment it releases dopamine in the brain and helps kick start that motivation you may need. It also acts as a buffer between you and the next semester of school. If you have trouble finding the motivation to clean your space before the semester leads to a downward spiral, think of it as a prerequisite to the fall semester.
Get Moving
Oftentimes you may become stagnant at your desks or in the library for the rest of the fall semester just trying to stay caught up. Before this happens, start moving your body now! Incorporating daily movement now will train your body and train your mind. Your body will become accustomed to daily movement which will lead to healthier habits. Your mind will thank you as studies have shown that daily movement and exercise can actually increase neuroplasticity in your brain. An increase of neuroplasticity will help your neural networks create more connections which will lead to a boost in cognitive function. Prep and strengthen your brain now by turning movement into a non-negotiable in your routine.
Set a Realistic Schedule
When the semester begins, the rush of assignments, work shifts, club meetings, and social events can quickly pile up. It is easy to get carried away and overcommit yourself, but balance is key. Creating a realistic schedule early on allows you to prioritize what truly matters. Use a planner, calendar app, or even a whiteboard to block off time for studying, breaks, and personal time. But do not just write down the due dates, instead be specific about the small steps you need to take leading up to the deadlines to motivate yourself to tick off each step you took. Life happens, so try to leave buffer time for the unexpected. Sticking to a sustainable routine will help you stay consistent and avoid burnout when midterms and finals roll around.
The start of a semester is a perfect opportunity to reset, not just academically, but mentally and physically as well. Whether it is clearing your space, moving your body, or creating a more balanced schedule, these small intentional changes now can shape the rest of your semester. Unlike January resolutions that often fade by February, the habits you build this fall can carry you through finals and beyond.
So happy fall semester everyone! And here is to a new semester, new opportunities, and a fresh start!