With the due date for college applications rapidly approaching, it’s important to remember small things to help keep your sanity. Whether your stress is a result of writing essays, filling out applications, or even just dealing with all your work, it’s good to start forming your own relaxation routine. Learn small habits to help you relax not only now, but also for your college years.

• How to relax during college apps:

“Ways that I relaxed while doing college apps is doing them with friends. Going to coffee shops like Starbucks or Hansa with some friends is a good way to unwind in a rather stressful time. You get caffeine and you get things done, all while spending time with your buds,” said Sam Perez (12).

• Create rewards for when you hit your goal:

“I wanted to finish my college applications early, and I knew that the only way I could do this was by giving myself some kind of reward after. I then decided to tell myself that I would not watch a single episode of Game of Thrones until I submitted every single app,” said Perez. “Then after, I promised myself that I would binge-watch the heck out of it. So, I guess that is one way to relax and reward yourself after submitting more than ten applications!”

• Start preparing for college:

Another way to have fun after submitting college apps is to take this as an opportunity to get excited for college and prepare for it. You can start looking into ways you want to decorate your room, what you want to bring, and to look forward to a new start.

“To unwind after finishing my college applications, I made a new Pinterest board for dorm decorations,” said Jenna Kelly (12).

• Go out:

Whether it is somewhere new or old, try to go out more. You’ve been spending a long time indoors, writing your college apps, and it is time to get out and enjoy yourself. After the long stress and anxiety of finishing your college apps, it is important to spend time at some of your favorite locations or find new ones. Treat yourself to your favorite food, go to the movies, go shopping, or take nice nature walks– whatever it is, take action and go out.

“Any small amount of free time that I get, I usually spend with my friends. We don’t see each other as often as we did in years past because there is so much to do, so it’s nice to just hang out and talk. Me and my friends will often just go get coffee and talk for hours,” said Zak Baumann (12). “Over winter break, I plan on doing a lot of the same.”

• Read a book:

Many people can agree that reading a book for enjoyment is sometimes the last priority in their lives. However, take this relaxing time after submitting your college apps to rediscover your love for reading. Although you may think you don’t have time to read in your busy schedule, completing your college apps has opened a lot of free time for you. Spend some time relaxing with a book and a mug of hot chocolate.

• Take a relax, no-stress day just for yourself:

Although it is fun to go out and have fun with friends, it is also important to take time for yourself. Don’t underestimate the importance of just spending time alone and relaxing. This may be different for everyone. For some, it is an opportunity to have a spa day; for others, it’s to rewatch your favorite show. This could also be time for you to cook or bake or rediscover your passion. Whatever it is, spend time with yourself and do the things you love. It’s important to learn the importance of self-care and understanding what helps you relax.

The deadline of college apps is a stressful, but exciting time. Although there is a lot of stress and anxiety leading up to it, it’s also a time to look forward to a fresh start. It’s a very exciting new chapter of your life. Embrace these last few months of high school, and look towards your future.