I’m seriously losing my mind here.
A bit of background: I’m 18 and took a gap semester to earn some extra cash and enjoy myself a bit before diving back into school. I started this semester excited and ready to go.
Fast forward a few months, and my routine looks like this: I wake up at 2:30 AM for work, head straight to class after, come home to do homework, and then crash by 7:30 PM, only to do it all over again the next day. On weekends, I’m stuck with longer shifts, usually around 8 to 9 hours, and by the time I get home, I’m completely drained. I really feel trapped in this cycle.
Has anyone else been in a situation like this? I’d really appreciate any advice on how to make things a bit more manageable. Anything helps!
It sounds like you’re juggling a lot right now, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. Here are some suggestions that might help you find a bit more balance and ease that feeling of being stuck:
Prioritize Self-Care: Make sure you’re carving out even a small amount of time each week solely for yourself. Whether it’s relaxing with a book, taking a walk, or just listening to music—give yourself permission to unwind.
Evaluate Your Schedule: Consider if there are ways you can adjust your work hours or school commitments. If it’s possible, talk to your employer about reducing your hours or finding a more manageable schedule that still allows you to earn money.
Plan Your Week: Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your week. Having a visual representation can help you see where you potentially need to make adjustments and ensure you don’t overload yourself.
Find Small Moments of Joy: Throughout your day, look for little things that bring you happiness, whether it’s a favorite song on the drive to work or a brief chat with a friend. Focusing on these moments can help make your days feel less monotonous.
Connect with Others: Talk to friends or family about how you’re feeling. Sometimes just sharing your experience can lighten the load, and they may have helpful suggestions based on their own experiences.
Set short-term goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable goals. This can help reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed and give you a sense of accomplishment.
Consider Professional Help: If you’re feeling persistently down or overwhelmed, it might be beneficial to speak with a counselor or therapist. They can provide you with coping strategies tailored to your situation.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and acknowledge that you’re going through a tough time. You’re not alone in this, and there are ways to navigate it successfully. Take care!