Burn Out

In knowing how things are going and in beginning to burn out with a really difficult term ahead (full load this summer), I am hoping to mix things up a bit. I wondered what things do you do to stave off burn out during the semesters/terms to keep refreshed, interested, and energized?

I hope last semester well and good luck in your next term!
Thanks in advance for your ideas and input.

((((Fresia))))
and...yea
To make a long story short, especially because repetition is exhausting, i had to withdraw from university partly due to burn-out. I will be returning in the fall on a reduced course-load. So i wouldnt also mind some specific/tangible ideas...besides the general "take your time and dont overwhelm yourself" and "keep in mind what you are working toward and why..."

What will your timetable be like for the summer semester? Do all of those courses for that time HAVE TO BE picked up all at once? I guess if so... make a day planner your best friend (electronic, paper, calendar with a gazillion colour-coded post-its, whateva ) to schedule in everything. And...ummm...yea more specific ideas from others would help, sorry. Anyway, i hope it all works out and you make it through:

Talked to an advisor, who reminded me that the tendency when taking on more work or difficult classes is to cut out activities outside of schoolwork: exercise, fun things/interests, and relaxation techniques. These are most important to keep up for stress relief and to engage the mind outside of schoolwork; typically are the first things to go, but are really needed for balance. Keeping up with providers too, especially if have a T or counselor, can be helpful as well and can be a priority. Productivity will actually decrease if not taking time away, so to definitely MAKE time for breaks by engaging in other activities and interests to recharge.

Things that knew but became so focused on studying that became short-sighted. Perhaps this reminder will help someone else as well.

My advice is this: Only take on a workload THAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY HANDLE. Don't lie to yourself.

If you think you are going to be doing too much with your course load this summer, so much so that it could be painful and cause you to burn out, and therefore not do well in the courses or with yourself and your needs (like you said about relaxation, fun and exercise), then maybe you should reconsider taking so much on your plate.

Will you also be taking classes in the fall? If so, then I might consider finding a way to take it a little easier this summer so you can be rejuvenated for the longer term ahead. How much time do you have between the end of your summer classes and the start of the fall semester?

I always think I can take on more than I'm actually comfortable with. Before you do anything, I encourage you to really step back and think, "Is this something I can do in a healthy way?" If so, all the power to you! But if perhaps not, then think--"What's the worst that could happen by taking a course off my plate?" Or, "How could I do this in a more healthy way?"

Good luck!

-CHANGEwillcome

Glad to hear your advisor meeting was so helpful . And yes, this is info i will try to keep in mind while setting up my timetable for the fall/future semesters too...
Thank you CWC for your great feedback too!