New semester new me? I’ve grappled with that question a lot this past month. After much reflection on the Fall 2023 semester, I’ve decided that this semester, instead of being a new me, I’ll be a better me. I’ve cultivated my own list of ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ for the Spring 2024 semester to be my very best self!
In: cheese and crackers. My childhood favorite after-school-snack makes a comeback in the thirteenth grade. Cheese and crackers never go out of style, and this snack has been my latest obsession; it’s so easy to put together (because who likes hauling heavy pots and pans and ingredients to the twenty-fifth floor of 15 Beekman to cook?) In fact, this makes for a great study snack because nutrients found in cheese like protein, calcium, and vitamin B12 can improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.
In: participating in class where discussion is a part of your final grade. I was really happy with the grades I earned last semester, but I noticed a trend where I lost points for discussion. Which, ultimately, was the difference between earning an ‘A-’ in class as opposed to an ‘A.’ This semester, I’ll be earning those points back. The beauty of participating in class is that you don’t necessarily have to be right about everything all the time, as long as you’re still making a contribution.
In: being more intentional with how I dress. I’ll be embracing the motto “look good, feel good, do good” this semester by putting a little more thought into how I dress. I learned a lot about cues from reading Atomic Habits last semester, and I realized that where the softness of sweatpants cues me to crawl back in bed, the structure of jeans reminds me to focus on the task at hand. Although I won’t be walking in New York Fashion Week any time soon, looking more put together for class improves my attitude, focus, and productivity levels.
Out: procrastination. Procrastination is definitely out this semester. If you find yourself procrastinating, here’s a solution you could try: productive procrastination (also called structured procrastination). When you’re putting something off, do other tasks so your time won’t be wasted. In my experience, a huge weight is lifted off my shoulders by completing these other tasks, which gives me some motivation to complete the one that I was originally putting off.
Out: over-consumption of aesthetic planners and journals. I have definitely fallen into the trap of buying way too many pretty notebooks and journals before; I probably have about a dozen unused and out-of-date planners in my junk drawer at home. This semester, I’m prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. This is a great idea for college students because stationery can be very expensive. I found that what works best for me is one large notepad split into seven sections, for each day of the week.
Out: over-scheduling myself. The hard truth is, you simply can’t be everywhere all of the time. Especially in New York City, commutes have a lot of variance that you need to plan ahead for. In addition, giving yourself time to breathe between activities is never a bad idea. Last semester, I learned that while my commitments hold me accountable, it’s unhealthy to spend every moment of your life in a commitment to someone, or something else. Making time for yourself is so ‘in’ this year!
With all that being said, I hope that my ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ list can serve as inspiration for you to make your very own list; set yourself up for success this semester!