The Student’s Survival Guide: 13 Habits to Combat Burnout and Thrive in College

5. Fuel Your Body and Mind: Prioritize Nutrition & Sleep

Pulling all-nighters and grabbing meals on the go might seem like rites of passage, but your body and mind crave steady care for top performance. Poor sleep and nutrition chip away at memory, energy, and even mood. Building better habits starts with small, doable changes: keep healthier snacks on hand, meal prep simple recipes, or swap soda for water every so often. Aim for consistent sleep—even on weekends, if possible. Creating sleep-friendly rituals (like disconnecting from tech before bed and keeping your room cool and dim) can make a surprising difference. If a perfect night’s rest is out of reach, power naps and mindful breathing can help restore your energy. Prioritizing the basics isn’t about restriction; it’s about showing yourself the respect it takes to thrive, inside and out.

6. Move Every Day: Exercise as Stress Relief

Movement isn’t just about staying fit—it’s a proven way to boost mood, fight stress, and clear the mental cobwebs that build up during long stretches of study. Exercise doesn’t have to mean intense gym sessions; even a brisk walk between classes, ten minutes of stretching, or dancing in your room counts. Many campuses offer free or low-cost fitness classes, or you can find quick routines online that fit your schedule and space. Notice how moving more, even in tiny increments, helps sharpen your focus and tempers anxiety over time. Don’t worry if you miss a day or prefer gentler options—every bit helps. Making movement a regular part of your routine creates a steady, natural resilience that will serve you long after exams are over.