Burnt out. Those two words probably describe the way most of us are feeling or are about to feel at this point in the semester. By now, we have adjusted to our new class and work schedules, caught up with our friends and gotten used to the familiar feeling of stress and chaos.
If you think you are the only one who stresses beyond all reason, you are dead wrong, my friend. I’m usually pushing the limits of sanity after I look at the week’s assignments in my planner or study countless hours for an exam. This is when I feel completely overwhelmed with the impossibility of it all.
In the midst of my little pity parties (which is what they really are), I seem to forget about all the important things in life that exist outside of my personal “college bubble.” Yes, my grades are important to me, but whether or not I receive an A+ in History of Civilization does not define me. Let’s be honest, 10 years from now nobody will even care.
Health and sanity are worth much more than a letter grade. It may sound like a “duh” statement, but you would be surprised at how many times we get so consumed with college that we forget our physical (and mental) limits. God created humans. Not robots. The body which God gave to each of us is a living temple, and it’s important to put its well-being first.
Relationships are also very important. No, I don’t mean only the relationships in which you’re looking for a future spouse. I mean the relationships you have with your parents, siblings and best friends.
When I have tons of homework, I usually don’t make time to spend with friends or family. I often assume that I can drop everyone until I’m no longer swamped, and they’ll all just be there patiently waiting for me.
In reality, the people in our lives whom we take for granted may not always be in our lives. We should recognize that the importance of our time with people is also valuable in the long run. College is temporary. Relationships are not.
Above all, a relationship with God is most important. Whenever I’m tempted to skip personal devotions or prayer, I remember that God is a “rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” In the midst of all the craziness of college, God is right there helping you along the way. After all, He is your friend. And not just a friend, but Someone who loves us infinitely and has sovereign power and ultimate wisdom. Treat Him accordingly.
You may think that it is normal to feel burnt out because we are college students. But being in college does not condemn you to a four-year sentence of sleep deprivation, fatigue and stress. Whenever you feel like giving up, just remember the things that matter most in life.
