Update: My 4 tips on how I'm surviving comps

It's a struggle. Between working a full-time and a part-time job, plus prepping for my dissertation research, and then life.

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Okay, first off, tired is an understatement of how I feel, especially if my full-time job is kicking my butt (which it is by the way). But this is just an update on me working on completing comps before moving on to my dissertation research.

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Time Management is key!

I've learned I need to make a schedule for myself as I work on earning a degree, regardless of what level of higher education it is. For those who are not aware, I have 2 jobs, a full-time analyst position, and a part-time graduate assistant position. Both very time consuming and exhausting, depending on what's going on. So if I don't have set times and days to work on specific things, I'll feel like I'm being pulled in so many different directions. Things I used to stay on track with work and school are: my school planner, iCal, and to-do lists with set deadlines.

It's okay if you need to take a personal day

I've honestly made a certain day a personal day where I don't do anything school or work-related, and I can just breathe, relax and catch up on rest. We all need a personal day, especially for our mental health. A tip I've learned as I'm on this academic career is to look at your calendar for each week, and determine which day would best suit you as a rest/personal day to recharge. It honestly doesn't have to be a weekend day, it can definitely be during the week. But the decision is yours, and you know what works for you. Also, make sure you listen to your body when it tells you it needs a break.

Do something physical

As you all can see, I have a pit who loves walks and hiking. Having Jade helps me do physical activity, even when I don't feel like it. I can honestly say after we've hiked for almost 30 minutes, I feel so much better mentally, physically, and emotionally. My tip: go outdoors or to the gym to walk around.

Do something you love to destress

I'll be real, I have full-blown dance parties in my living room to destress from comps, and it works. I also ugly cry and vent to my best friends who are supportive in every way possible. Sometimes, I cook and/or drink wine or Jack Daniels to relax. Also, I'm a bit artsy and may sketch or paint to destress as well. Regardless of what you love, take some time to do it as you're progressing for that milestone you've been working on. You'll feel so much better when you're able to disconnect and attack with a clear and focused mind!

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So those are my top 4 tips on how I'm getting through my comprehensive exams. I hope they work for you all! If you have things that work for you and your success, provide them below in the comments section!

@TheStudentForLife