High school seniors experience a lot of stress as they await college acceptance letters. They too often experience pressure from family and friends about where to attend college. Sometimes students have to be very, very proactive in informing others of how they are going to make their own decision about where to attend college. For some teenagers this is the first time they have to make an important decision on their own. They may not agree with the advice they are getting from parents or counselors and have to reach deeply inward to truly think about what they want from the college experience.
Decision Making
A decision about where to attend college may be the first important decision many teenagers make on their own. Thus utilizing tools like list making, research, and really listening to your thoughts and your “gut feeling’ are very important.
Keeping a list of what you need in a college is very important. It gives you something to refer back to when conflicted about if a college is really right for you. It also helps you focus your mind. Your list may be upgraded frequently, that is normal; however, keeping the list will help you to remember key details about what you truly want from the college experience.
Research helps teenagers make good decisions too. Check with alumni of the college you are interested in to get real information about the college experience there. Also do Internet research to read as many articles about the college you want to attend as possible.
Also, find quiet time to allow yourself to truly listen to the thoughts in your mind and to delve into the “gut feelings” you are having about your college decision. Don’t make this important decision in a whirlwind vortex of conflicting opinions from others and competing thoughts from your own mind. Find quiet time to focus on your thoughts and feelings and give them the attention they deserve. You know your true dreams and goals better than anyone else. Heed your thoughts and make a decision you will be comfortable with for a lifetime.
Keeping Your Own Counsel
Too often friends are jealous or sad if you get a college acceptance that they wanted and did not receive. Thus if you tell them your news you have to also deal with the emotions they express. This just adds to all of the stress of your decision making process. Sometimes the time during making a college decision is a time to keep your own counsel. Sharing every bit of “breaking news” about college acceptances you have received too often just adds to the cauldron of drama brewing all around you.
Keeping your news about college acceptances private until you have received all offers and made a final decision is often a smart move. Too much input from others can be overwhelming and confusing. If someone is supportive and calm you may want to share news with them. However, try not to have too many people in your “inner circle” of those you discuss your decision making process with. Because with too many incoming opinions it is very easy to lose track of what you really want and need.
Meditation
When stress is getting to you shut out the outside world for 30 minutes or more and meditate. Find a quiet space to yourself and calm your mind with meditation. Clearing your mind of all though helps one to relax and slow down a racing mind.
Meditation is a wonderful tool for those making complex decisions. It allows one to step back from thinking and then return to life more focused and less stressed.
Exercise
Exercise is a must for any stressful time. Getting one’s body moving helps the body release stress and toxins. Exercise helps one focus on rhythm of the body rather than the worries of the mind.
A good walk, run, or workout helps boosts energy and helps one feel better physically. A lethargic body isn’t the best at decision making. Getting the body active helps the mind become more alert and better at focusing and decision making.
Taking a walk before making any important decision gives one “alone time” to think and let the mind mull over options. A good walk helps the mind make more thoughtful decisions.
Positive Thinking and Visualization
Use positive thinking and visualization to help you through tough times as you work through the process of awaiting news and making a final decision about which college to attend. Picture yourself happily starting college on the first day or starting to pack for college. Keep good images of your future in your mind to motivate you.
Focus on positive thoughts and use exercise and meditation to bring you back to a positive place if you are getting too worried.
