Caramel Contemplation

Large amounts of alcohol consumption, non-stop parties and flexible hours, that's what university life is supposed to be like right?! Maybe, but I guess no one bothered to tell you about the hectic deadlines, the all-nighters and the fight to stay in the lecturers' good books. Welcome to varsity life, a playground of never ending possibilities and an environment where stress thrives!


You may be asking at this very moment in time, what makes university students so special? We all get stressed out don't we? That is a very true assumption. As human beings we are just naturally restless, always looking for the next big thing to grab our attention. Varsity life, however, offers a whole range of new problems. Take me for example. I have a 10-page script draft to hand in, an English essay on William Blake to complete and I have 3 movies to watch, all in the span of approximately two days. Combine this with the fact that I have less than considerate neighbors and a boyfriend that I am missing terribly and you have a recipe for the migraine of the century! I can't complain too much though, university will probably remain the most cherished few years of my life.


With that being said, stress is not something that should be taken lightly. Sure, it can be a good thing for those of us who thrive under pressure, but if it leads to migraines, asthma, skin disorders or other physical problems it is something that should be addressed with the utmost urgency. I am no expert in the field of dealing with problems but I can provide some tips that I have discovered over the past two years that I have been in university. Hopefully these words of wisdom will help others in my situation to deal with their stress quickly and effectively.


1) Plan ahead as far as possible. I cannot emphasize this point enough! The less work you have to do, the less stressed you will be. Do everything in bite sized portions, that way you address every piece of work you have and still get it done in time.

2) Be creative. This can be applied to the way in which one spends their time and life in general. Split your time up so you don't become overwhelmed with work. This way you will have spare time to do something creative such as scrapbooking, doing puzzles, or even making jewellery. This will in-turn relieve stress.

3) Never underestimate the value of a glass of wine. This point is crucial. Whenever you find yourself overcome by stress, break out a glass of wine and just chill. It will relax you, clear your mind and get your thoughts flowing freely. Just don't have too much though!

Remember, the more stressed out you are, the more rigid your thoughts become. If there comes a point when you feel like you can no longer continue, listen to your body and take a break. You will be amazed at how much work you will get done after doing this. 

Happy stress busting!