“You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously”
Sophia Bush
Inspirational Quotes
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressures of life. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or simply feeling burnt out, taking care of your mental health is crucial. One way to find solace and motivation is through inspirational quotes. These words of wisdom can provide comfort and inspire you to keep going, even when times get tough. Here are some of my favorite quotes:
- “You are enough, just as you are.” – Meghan Markle
- “Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you.” – Katie Reed
- “You are stronger than you know, braver than you believe, and smarter than you think.” – A.A. Milne
- “Self-care is how you take your power back.” – Lalah Delia
- “You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously.” – Sophia Bush
- “Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brownn
- “You are worth the quiet moment. You are worth the deeper breath. You are worth the time it takes to slow down, be still, and rest.” – Morgan Harper Nichols
- “You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
- “You are the sky. Everything else is just the weather.” – Pema Chödrön
- “You have been criticizing yourself for years, and it hasn’t worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” – Louise L. Hay
- “You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress simultaneously.” – Sophia Bush
- “You are not what has happened to you. You are what you choose to become.” – Carl Jung
- “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.” – Rumi
My Self Care Journey As a College Student
As a college student, I was constantly juggling classes, part-time work, and social activities. On top of that, I was dealing with the pressures of living up to academic expectations and societal standards of success. It wasn’t long before I started feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
I vividly remember one night during finals week when I hit a breaking point. I was studying late into the night, running on caffeine and little sleep, when I suddenly felt a wave of panic wash over me. I realized then that I had been neglecting my own well-being in pursuit of perfection.
That night, I made a promise to myself to prioritize self-care. I started small, incorporating little moments of self-care into my daily routine. I would take short breaks to go for a walk, practice deep breathing exercises, or simply sit in silence and reflect.
Whether you’re a college student, working woman or stay-at-home mum, these self care tips are sure to guide and alleviate the challenges that anxiety has brought upon you. I challenge you to take apply some of these in your routines. In the last section, I have broken them down into a daily, weekly and monthly checklist that you can easily follow through for guidance.
10 Things You Can do to Combat Stress and Anxiety
Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being is crucial for success and overall happiness. Here are practical self-care tips tailored to the unique needs of college students and working women.
- Prioritize Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for academic performance and overall health. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.
- Eat Nutritious Meals: Maintaining a balanced diet can improve your mood, energy levels, and concentration. Stock up on healthy snacks and try to eat regular meals, even during busy times.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise is a great way to relieve stress and boost your mood. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s yoga, dancing, or jogging, and incorporate it into your routine.
- Manage Your Time Effectively: Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and deadlines. Prioritize tasks and break them down into smaller, more manageable steps.
- Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Take breaks throughout the day to practice deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness. These practices can help reduce stress and improve focus.
- Stay Connected: Maintaining relationships with friends and family is important for your mental health. Make time for social activities and stay connected with loved ones, even if it’s just a quick call or text.
- Seek Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek support from a counselor, therapist, or trusted mentor. Many colleges offer mental health services for students.
- Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for yourself, both academically and personally. Break larger goals into smaller milestones to keep yourself motivated.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially during challenging times. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend.
- Embrace Self-Care as a Lifestyle: Self-care isn’t just about indulging in occasional treats; it’s about making choices that nourish your mind, body, and soul on a daily basis.
By prioritizing self-care, college students can navigate the challenges of college life with greater ease and resilience. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s a necessary investment in your well-being and future success. For more physical relaxation techniques to practise at home, check this out. If your friends or peers are experiencing anxiety, here are some ways you can be there for them in that moment.
Self care Checklist for College
Daily Self-Care Checklist:
- Get enough sleep
- Eat nutritious meals
- Take short breaks throughout the day
- Practice mindfulness or meditation
- Exercise for at least 30 minutes
- Spend time outdoors
Weekly Self-Care Checklist:
- Plan enjoyable activities
- Connect with friends or family
- Engage in hobbies or interests
- Reflect on achievements and gratitude
- Unplug from electronics for a few hours
Monthly Self-Care Checklist:
- Treat yourself to a massage or spa day
- Try a new hobby or class
- Declutter and organize your space
- Set new goals or intentions for the month ahead
Personal Care Checklist:
- Attend regular medical check-ups
- Practice good hygiene habits
- Take prescribed medications as directed
- Prioritize your mental health by seeking therapy or counseling if needed
I hope that these insights and tools will help you navigate your own journey with more ease and self-compassion. Remember, you are worth the effort it takes to care for yourself. Embrace self-care as a lifestyle, and you’ll find yourself not only surviving but thriving in the face of life’s challenges.
