Fighting the Odds with a Smile

Learn young the art of remaining functional and productive under duress

Two months into the college and you are lost, confused, angry, frustrated and lonely perhaps. Your old gang is spread all over the country, your parents want to keep a tab on you, your girlfriend/boyfriend is becoming increasingly demanding, your classmates are competitive eggheads and you suddenly feel like you are not as smart as you imagined.

Not exactly how you thought things would shape up? Life is not as hunky dory as you imagined it to be. Never mind, this happens to most of the people at some point in their lives. You are not the only one who is shrouded in confusion. And there is definitely an easy way out. All you need to do is take a little time off and think!

College life can be demanding
A thrilling and exciting college life is what every student dreams of. But the challenges are also endless and sometimes it could be disappointing to know that it is not all fun as you initially thought. College life is not a walk in the park. Freedom does not cancel out responsibilities. It invites more of them. Although the job market is becoming increasingly competitive, most problems you encounter at this age are not directly related to career choices but definitely affect your career.

For instance, you could be a social misfit. For some reason, you feel that you are not completely accepted by your peers. In a completely new environment this can be extremely unsettling. You could also find yourself in a very erudite circle of seniors and develop an inferiority complex out of the blue. Relationship problems often are the staple source of distraction. Most students are consumed by crises in their romantic involvements. These affect your self confidence and clarity.

Don’t lose sight of your goals
College years are the formative period of your life. Crises and problems will forever persist. You cannot make them disappear but you can certainly learn to deal with them. This is the time when you must develop these essential skills. Just because your boyfriend dumped you does not mean you gloriously choose the life of an illiterate bumpkin. Or just because Shweta is more articulate in class, you need not lose confidence in your abilities.

Optimism pays off
Instead of sinking into depression or walking around mad as a March hare, you can stick to basics to remain on track. It is very important that you actually achieve some of your goals in college because your attitude to challenges now will shape your reactions to difficult situations throughout your life. Remember that losing can sometimes be a choice. Don’t make that choice. Declutter your mind and detoxify your body. This is the general mantra for streamlining your thoughts to focus on your priorities. The solution of your problems may not be in your hands but the following few things are:

1. De-clutter: If you think you can’t get any work done because your life is a big bad mess, then the easiest way to ease yourself into a little bit of work is by reorganising your surroundings. Clear out those piles on the table, clean the shelves and neatly rearrange your room. Your surroundings have a direct impact on the way your mind works. A spacious clean room will help you think and process work easily.
2. Work: Indeed! Work sometimes can be the greatest solution to emotional or psychological blocks in life. Some people immerse themselves in work to escape the monotony of their personal life. But we are not asking you to do that.
3. Set realistic targets: Don’t overdo things. Make really small goals so when you tick them off your list, you get a sense of achievement which will boost your confidence.
4. Start exercising: Exercising will relieve you of stress. Believe it. Take twenty minutes out of your schedule to exercise. Or practice alternate breathing. Be sporty.
5. Cut down on nicotine: Smoking only seemingly calms you down. Reduce the nicotine intake when under stress.
6. Reduce caffeine intake: Caffeine is proven to increase stress and restlessness beyond a certain point.
7. Avoid sugary snacks: These will only give you a temporary sugar rush. Have healthier snacks which will gradually release sugar in your blood stream.
8. Sleep more: Sleep is a very effective stress-buster. Do not cut down on sleep. Lack of sleep will make you more flustered.
9. Listen to your favourite music: But remember to avoid gloomy and highly sentimental songs. Music usually helps stay positive and focused. It blocks out negative thoughts and keeps you upbeat.
10. Talk to your mentor: Above all, it is best to talk to your mentor and seek their advice.

No one other than yourself can stop you from staying happy and focused. It’s all about the perspective that you adopt of this world. Every setback is a learning experience and your quality of life depends on how enthusiastic you are about moving up the ladder. Cheers to life!