Coming to university was a significant change, not just academically but physically and socially, too.
Living without an enforced routine and having to plan everything myself was overwhelming to start with. I found some weeks, I'd try to do too much, and others, I'd feel incapable of anything. University revolves around self-motivation, and people often advise sticking to a routine, which can be helpful. The rigid organisation can work well for some people, but I found it restrictive. Sometimes, things you need or want to do get held back, or new things crop up that don't 'fit' with the schedule you adopt, so you end up back where you started – without routine.
Instead, I allow myself to do things flexibly according to my mood and workload rather than forcing myself to do them at 'set' times. For me, adopting a more flexible and intuitive lifestyle has helped me make sure I get things done, but also ensures I look after myself.
Adopting a more flexible and intuitive lifestyle has helped me make sure I get things done, but also ensures I look after myself.
Living independently can also be tough from a social perspective. Even when you have your friends and housemates around you, it's still perfectly valid to feel lonely sometimes, especially since I think at university, there's some unspoken expectation that you must be socialising 24/7. People have such varied schedules that it can be difficult to arrange things. Still, instead of overthinking my connections with people, I now embrace the 'me' time when plans fall through. That's the beauty of living for yourself – having more accessible opportunities for self-care and doing what makes you happy.
Ultimately, it's all about finding balance and what works for you. University is full of highs and lows for everyone, and change is always uncomfortable, even when you desire it!
