When I first started college in New York, I thought being productive meant staying busy all the time. If I wasn’t studying, working on assignments, applying for internships, or planning something for the future, I felt like I wasn’t doing enough. Living in New York only made that feeling stronger. The city moves quickly, and it often feels like everyone around you is constantly working toward something.
At first, I tried to keep up with that pace. I would spend long hours studying, saying yes to every opportunity, and putting pressure on myself to make the most of every single day. While I enjoyed being involved, I slowly realized that constantly staying busy was also leaving me mentally exhausted. There were days when I felt guilty for taking a break, even if I really needed one.
One thing college has taught me is that being busy and being productive are not always the same thing.
I noticed that whenever I ignored my own well-being, everything else became harder too. I had trouble concentrating, small tasks felt overwhelming, and I enjoyed my classes much less than I normally would. At first, I thought the solution was simply to work harder, but eventually I realized that what I actually needed was balance.
For me, balance didn’t come from creating the perfect schedule or following a strict routine. Instead, it came from paying attention to small habits that made each day feel more manageable. Some mornings, that meant taking my time while getting ready instead of rushing out the door. Other days, it meant going for a walk through the city after class before sitting back down to study. Even stopping to grab coffee with a friend could completely change my mood after a stressful day.
Living in New York also reminded me that there is always something happening. It is easy to feel like you should always be doing more because there is another event, another opportunity, or another place to explore. Eventually, I learned that it is okay not to do everything. Sometimes the best decision is staying in, getting enough sleep, and allowing yourself to recharge without feeling guilty.
Another thing that helped me was learning to separate my self-worth from my productivity. It is easy to believe that your value depends on your grades, internships, or accomplishments. I felt that pressure too, especially during busy parts of the semester. Over time, however, I realized that success also includes taking care of yourself. Rest is not something you earn after finishing everything on your to-do list. It is something you need in order to do your best.
One habit that made a bigger difference than I expected was simply giving myself small breaks throughout the day. Instead of spending hours staring at my computer, I learned to step away for a few minutes, listen to music, call my family, or walk outside. Those short moments helped me return with a clearer mind and much more energy.
I also realized that everyone’s version of balance looks different. Some people enjoy planning every hour of their day, while others prefer a more flexible routine. What works for one student may not work for someone else. Instead of comparing my habits to other people’s, I started paying attention to what actually helped me feel healthy, motivated, and happy.
Looking back now, I still have stressful weeks. Midterms, deadlines, and internship applications can still feel overwhelming at times. The difference is that I no longer believe I have to sacrifice my well-being in order to succeed. Taking care of myself has become part of being successful, not something separate from it.
College is a time of growth, but growth is difficult when you are constantly running on empty. Learning to slow down every once in a while has made me a better student, a better friend, and a happier person overall.
Takeaway
College can be busy, exciting, and sometimes overwhelming. While it is important to work hard and pursue your goals, it is just as important to take care of yourself along the way. Small habits like taking breaks, getting enough rest, spending time with friends, and creating routines that work for you can make a big difference. Finding balance does not mean doing less—it means giving yourself the support you need to keep moving forward.
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By Polina Makarova
Polina Makarova is an English Literature major at Pace University and a Publishing Intern at Campus Clipper. Originally from Russia, she writes about student life, wellness, fashion, and personal growth while navigating college life in New York City.
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Tags: college life, Friendship, international students, mental health, New York City