Applying for college can be one of the most exciting and daunting experiences you will go through in life. While starting a new chapter can be exhilarating, the process to get there is anything but enjoyable.
With so many deadlines and important decisions to make, it’s normal to get overwhelmed. While it’s not exactly easy to reduce anxiety, remaining calm will better your chances of a successful application.
Not sure where to get started? Then keep on reading. Below we are going to discuss exactly how you can manage stress during the college application process.
Find a support network.
The first thing you need to understand before you even begin applying for colleges is that you’re not alone. While you may be determined to handle everything yourself, having a support team of friends and family members is incredibly beneficial.
Additionally, it can be worth reaching out to experienced College Admissions Consultants. Having their professional guidance will reduce stress and enhance the possibility of getting into your dream school.
Identify your triggers.
Before you can manage your anxiety and stress, you need to know exactly what’s causing it. Some individuals may be concerned about having a lack of control, while others are facing fear of failure.
By recognizing your triggers, you can find ways to avoid them or develop specific coping mechanisms. Journaling can be beneficial here – even just 10 minutes a day allows you to reconnect with your thoughts and emotions.
Create a realistic schedule.
Time management is key during the college application season. To prevent burnout, try to break down tasks into more manageable pieces and be realistic about your schedule. You’re not going to be able to write an essay in a single night!
Start by writing everything you need to get done on a calendar, complete with deadlines. If things are looking too overwhelming, you may be trying to juggle too much at once.
Don’t neglect self-care.
Even with a busy schedule, it’s still essential that you factor in time to yourself. You’re not going to be able to perform your best if you’re exhausted.
Maintain healthy eating habits, exercise throughout the week, and engage in stress-relieving activities as much as possible. This could include yoga, meditation, deep breathing or even relaxing hobbies that bring you joy.
Remember the big picture.
Finally, remember that all of your feelings are only temporary. You’re not going to be applying for colleges forever, so try not to become entirely invested in the outcome.
Remind yourself of your long-term goals, and consider all of the different paths you can take to achieve them. By having multiple backup plans, you’ll be less concerned about what comes next.
Final Words
While there’s no denying that you will face some amount of stress and anxiety during the college application process, there are ways to prevent it from becoming too much. By following the tips above, you can ensure that these negative feelings don’t get in the way of achieving your goals.
Good luck!
