It’s that time of the semester — midterms have passed, the weather is cooling down, and motivation might be starting to fade. Between juggling classes, work, and social life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck in the same daily routine. A mid-semester reset is the perfect opportunity to pause, refresh, and refocus before the end of the semester. Keep reading to learn how!
1. Clean Your Room
I recommend cleaning off your desk, washing your bedding, and putting away laundry. Although this may not be fun, a tidy room can make a huge difference in your mindset. Add something simple that makes you feel good, such as string lights or a new poster to brighten your space.
2. Do a Digital Declutter
Organize your files, delete old emails, and back up important documents. This is a simple way to keep track of everything you’ll need during your college years. Clean out your camera roll and make space for new memories. Consider setting up folders for each class or project as it will save you from digging through downloads later.
3. Make a New Playlist
If you’re like me, music may help you stay motivated. I recommend creating a fresh playlist that helps you power through study sessions, walk to class, or unwind after a long day. Whether it’s upbeat pop, chill vibes, country tunes, or instrumental music, a new playlist can make everything feel just a bit more exciting again.
4. Make a Fresh Schedule
By mid-semester, your schedule might not be working as well as it did in August. Take a look at your daily habits. You may find that you need to adjust your study times, plan earlier workouts, or carve out time for something creative and fun. Even the small changes can help you feel more productive!
5. Check In With Yourself
A reset is not only about cleaning, but also about reflecting. Ask yourself how you are feeling. What’s been going well, and what could use more attention? Take time to acknowledge your accomplishments and remind yourself of why you’re here at SIU. You’ve already made it halfway, which is definitely something to be proud of! Keep these accomplishments in a journal that you can look back at when you are feeling down to remind you of how far you have come.
Giving yourself the space to breathe, organize, and refocus is most important. Being a Saluki means powering through and knowing when to press reset. Here’s to a strong finish this semester and a refreshed, recharged you!
