One of the greatest aspects of college is living in close quarters to your closest friends. Their door is open for you pretty constantly and it creates a safe space, and I don’t think I’ve ever been so comfortable with a group of people. However, there are a lot of things that we all still have to learn about each other; and even though all friends want to do is help, sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is be alone for a couple of hours. The next headers are how I felt and dealt with a pause from my squad.
Sadness:
The best thing that I could do was escape: Any crying or frustration let out in seclusion means getting out any ounce of sorrow. Focusing on it for a while may cause past events or thoughts that haven’t been brought up to your brain to pop up.
Music suggestion: “Cry” by Kelly Clarkson (that’ll do it)
Anger:
Originally, it’s towards the people that caused the initial emotions and then towards myself for being sensitive to nonsense. Most people, like myself, enjoy being happy, so when people do little things that ensure it doesn’t happen, things tend to build up. It’s definitely a lot better to handle emotions as they hit, but sometimes you don’t realize.
Contemplation:
The frustration then turns into possibilities and questions: What can I do to make sure I don’t feel this way again? What’s a positive, healthy way to go about dealing with these feelings?
Music suggestion: Multiplicity of Beatles songs on shuffle
Preparation:
Plan out your day so you still get things done. “I was sad” isn’t an excuse I like to use, so I use my anger to make sure I show myself that I am better than the girl that was so upset just hours ago.
Domination:
Kill your plan. Physically present yourself in a way that makes you feel better; eat some good, fresh food or treat yo’ self to something at The Pub; Go to the gym and do some activities in the mondo gym and grunt it all out.
Music suggestion: the “All Out 80’s” playlist on Spotify
Obviously, this may not work for everyone. The point is that it is okay to need time to yourself, especially when we’re all around other kids constantly; and the same steps can probably apply to stressful situations! Taking a breather by yourself can be exactly what the doctor ordered.
