Finals Week, think about it, what do you see? I see books, papers, due dates, word limits, and anxiety attacks all set to Rimsky-Korsakov’s Flight of the Bumblebee. I think we can all agree that it can get crazy.

With 57 different projects and essays, (that you probably had a month or so to do, but you started the day before), all due on at the same time, you’ve got plenty on your shoulders. So instead of some motivational speech telling you to power through and save all the extra things, like sleep, for when the week is over; here are some things to save you from losing your mind and reverting to a vegetative state.

First things first, this idea of going hardcore and taking no time for yourself is a load of bologna. Should you start those 57 projects at the very least a week before they’re due? Yes, you should, but I do understand life gets in the way and sometimes you have to start 48 hours before. If that’s the path you take, at least make those a semi-peaceful 48 hours.

Take 20-30 minutes between big blocks of working/studying to do things you enjoy, like watching a YouTube video, petting your dog, or you know, eat food. When you return, plug in your earbuds and play some calm music while you work. Not only will it help you focus, but it’ll keep you in a good state of mind.

Now, let’s talk about those late nights. We all know they happen, and chances are if you’re working until midnight, you probably decided that it’s the only way for you to get something done. So, in that case, falling asleep before you finish may not be the best idea. DISCLAIMER: this is the ONLY time I will ever endorse being purposefully sleep deprived, but I get it, you do what you have to do.

To keep yourself awake, try this chia-green tea energy drink, which honestly is super good for you. Both chia seeds and green tea are easy to find, and are natural energizers, (which also help with metabolism so it’s also great for taking off a couple of holiday-pounds.)

Of course, all those studying tips and tricks that your teachers told you throughout the years are true and you should definitely use them. Highlight those notes, use that stack of index cards you bought for a presentation in Junior High and threw into a drawer and never touched again. It will help you, I promise.

Or don’t take my advice and destroy your body and soul, that’s your choice.

Happy Finals Week!