DAY IN MY LIFE AS A COLLEGE ATHLETE!✨🍋🫶

Living the college athlete life is definitely a balancing act, and I often get asked how I manage to fit everything in! My day might look busy, but it's all about strategy and a few key habits I've picked up along the way. First off, time management is non-negotiable. From that 8:00 AM start, my schedule can be unpredictable. I try to plan my study sessions around my training. For example, after heading to the communal study room at 10:30 AM to tackle my essay and other homework, I make sure to set clear goals for what I want to accomplish. Sometimes, it means sacrificing a bit of sleep or a social event, but honestly, seeing progress in both my sport and my academics is worth it. I keep a planner religiously, jotting down everything from practice times to class assignments and even those spontaneous decisions, like going to that Kehlani concert! It helps me visualize my week and allocate time efficiently. Fueling my body properly is another huge component. You saw I had eggs in the morning and a hot dog with rice for lunch – sometimes you grab what’s convenient! But I try to make conscious choices. Mornings often start with something quick like eggs, and I always have fruit and other healthy snacks packed for between classes or after practice. That iced coffee is a lifesaver on gloomy days, but I balance it with plenty of water. It's about finding quick, nutritious options that keep my energy up without taking too much time away from my other commitments. Meal prepping on Sundays, even just for a few meals, can make a world of difference during the week. Finally, it’s crucial to take care of your mental well-being. Let's be real, some days, especially when the weather just got me feeling kind of sad, it's tough to stay motivated. There are mornings when waking up for cleaning feels like a Herculean task! But those little moments, like getting all those packages from the mail and bringing them back, or that unexpected Kehlani concert at 5:30 PM, are what keep me going. I make sure to schedule in some downtime, even if it's just an hour to unwind or listen to music. It’s not just about pushing through; it’s about finding joy and acknowledging that it's okay to have a 'bad mood already to' start the day. Recognizing those feelings and finding small ways to cheer myself up, whether it’s a favorite snack or a brief chat with a friend, helps immensely. Remember, being a college athlete is demanding, but it’s also an incredible experience. Finding your rhythm and prioritizing both your physical and mental health is key to thriving.