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Student to student: How we survive January

With shorter days, deadlines and colder weather, January has a reputation for being challenging on mind and body. But a few simple changes in approach can make a huge difference to our wellbeing and health. To support you in making the most out of January, students Lily Stuart (BA Drama) and Mrinalini Sarkar (MSc Cancer and Clinical Oncology) share their January survival tactics.

Published:
Lily Stuart (BA Drama) and Mrinalini Sarkar (MSc Cancer and Clinical Oncology) sitting on chairs in an office having a conversation

Tactic #1

It’s okay to not always feel sociable, but when you have nothing planned and want to be around people, I recommend going to Library Square – there’s always something happening there.  

Tactic #2

Like a lot of people, I’ve got deadlines coming up in January. My best way to deal with that stress is to embrace planning. Plan meal prep, plan a simple walk, plan a movie night with friends. Planning might seem boring, but you need that fun to keep going when studying feels hard.

Tactic #3 

Then there’s the weather! It has its own personality in January, and not in a good way. Instead of trying to fight the short days and long nights, my advice is to go with it. Allow yourself to stay inside, hibernate and be cosy. Sleep and rest as much as you can, knowing it’s what your body needs and if you allow yourself this, you’ll be ready to go when things get brighter. 

Tactic #4

Your bank balance will thank you too because let’s face it, January is a tough month for managing expenses. Just remember everyone is in the same boat, but we are lucky to live in this wonderful area where there’s always things going on.   

Check out the free walking tours around London and get involved with your community to give yourself a boost and get some inspiration. There’s an app called Meet Up that lists community events on there like free socials, free dinners, walking tours, and book clubs. I went to a free meditation session, so there’s something for everyone. Queen Mary and the Student's Union also run a lot of free activities and events too.

Tactic #5

Oh, and remember to take advantage of all those student discounts. I really look forward to my Tuesday Starbucks coffee because it's only two pounds, and it gets me out. 

Tactic #6

There are other little things you can do to stay motivated and positive. Stay engaged with your hobbies, do some journaling, and sketching.

And remember that Queen Mary has an amazing wellbeing service for students. If you need someone to talk to and you think talking to someone might help, it's a great resource. 
 

Top tips 

  • Schedule fun because when you have something to look forward to, you're automatically motivated.
  • Your ‘to do’ list is your best friend, so write everything down. 
  • And hot drinks always help. So go for that hot chocolate, go for that coffee. 
  • Prioritise self-care, rest and relaxation. It’s winter – so hibernate! 
  • Reach out to people. Reach out to your friends, your family, speak to them and check in.  
  • Maybe the trees aren't green but go and walk and spend some time in nature. The air is still fresh and you need some sunlight. 

 

 

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