Being a college athlete comes with a pretty hectic schedule balancing school work, practice and games, and maybe even a job. Trying to juggle all this can seem like a lot, but it's important to prioritize time for yourself too. Building time into your schedule for you to relax or spend time with loved ones can help ease the stresses of your responsibilities. Here are a few ways to do just that

Related: Work/Life Balance as a College Athlete

Give yourself rest days. 

Taking at least one day off a week from training is important not only for your muscles to recover but for your mental health too. Stepping  back from your sport even just for a day may seem a little scary but it allows you to enjoy the other things life has to offer. If you can't take a whole day of rest, just setting out some time in your day to read or go for a walk can help clear your mind.

Related: 5 Reasons to Take Rest Days Seriously

Unplug

Technology has been so integrated into our lives it feels like it consumes us. Even if you're not at practice or doing work, having constant information bombarding your phone can be overwhelming. Turning off your screens and doing something else even if it's just taking a nap can give you some peace and quiet. 

Learn to say no

It can be hard to tell someone no when they ask for your help but learning to say it can give you more free time for the things you do enjoy. A friend may ask you to help out with a bake sale they are planning, but you only have an hour of free time in your day. Instead of agreeing to help when you just want to watch your favorite show or relax, try saying something like “I would love to help but unfortunately I have too much to do today” “Keep it simple and respectful, chances are your friend will be just fine. 

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

Prioritize your responsibilities 

If you know you have a big paper due on Friday, start working on it Monday. This will not only help alleviate the stress of rushing to finish but it will also most likely take less time out of your schedule to work on it bit by bit instead of hours in one sitting. If you know you have a 6am lift the next day, maybe avoid going out with your friends the night before and push it to another day. It may be helpful to use a planner or calendar to keep track of class, work, practice, etc. It's all about setting yourself up for success and that comes from being prepared and timely. 

Give yourself something to look forward to

 Scheduling to hang out with your friends, or going to a concert, or a museum can give you something to anticipate doing. It makes getting through the day, workout, week, or whatever feel like a reward. 

It can be hard to balance everything on your plate but it's important to take the time you need for yourself. So take these 5 tips and apply them to your life–your mind and body will appreciate it!

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* Originally published on July 18, 2022, by Casey Chizmazia