That Time of the Semester

Here are some coping mechanisms that I seem to be attracted to, as a means to get through the drone of finals and last-minute paper writing (that should have been done throughout the semester):

• Writing. A LOT. And not on course topics. We're talking stream of consciousness. Of course, I wish my papers were this easy to write...
  

• Silly commentary in the margins of articles and notes, when preparing study guides and writing papers. Hilariously enough, these work their way into my assignments and usually benefit not only the writing process, but also the final outcome. Professors seem to get a kick out of my related comments. And here I didn't think I was all that funny...

• Mouthwash. Sounds silly, but when you're up all night working and munching on the usual finals snacks, you need something fresh and different. I think I'll try to make this more of a habit throughout the year, rather than just at the end of term.

• Stretching. Get the poison out. And the oxygen to the brain.

• The occasional award to myself, for accomplishing something of significance to the assignment. Whatever that may be. Tends to be a bit of chocolate or a nice 90min nap, beginning with classical music.

And in learning what works, I've also learned what doesn't work:

• Smoke breaks. This requires me to get up, go outside, stand in the cold. And then I smell after, my mouth tastes horrible, and my fingertips smell absolutely disgusting. Not to mention, my focus has shifted elsewhere and it takes a bit to get back on track.

• Working during the day. Whatever the reason, the sunshine is NOT my friend when it comes to getting work done. Probably because it is, perhaps, my biggest temptation. It's taken me three years, but I finally figured out that I am FAR more efficient in my work during the late-night hours (I should have picked up on this habit of mine in high school).

• Energy drinks (with the exception of RedBull). Any other source of caffeine-- FORGET IT. During the rest of the semester, I try to hold off on the RedBull, so I don't build a tolerance for it. Instead, popcorn, anything with peanut butter, or easy-to-eat fruits are my snacks of choice. And Triscuits with cheese. Certainly one of my snack staples, when it comes to finals.