Officer De-stress Top Tips

Officer De-stress Top Tips! 

Will – Academic Affairs   

1. Study during designated study hours. This means focusing on your revision between 9 AM and 5 PM, which allows you to enjoy your evenings without the pressure of unfinished work.   

2. Maintain your hobbies.  
   Throughout exam season, I found it beneficial to revise or write for a set period and then take a break to engage in a hobby, such as painting miniatures for about 30 minutes, or playing some video games. This approach significantly improved my focus and well-being.   

3. Get fresh air.  
   I strongly encourage taking a short walk daily, even if it's just to the store for revision snacks. This practice can help break up your day, prevent feelings of restlessness, and allow you to enjoy some fresh air. 

Mo – Wellbeing 

1. Focus on your own individual progress and ability.  Talking about your exams, working with someone and testing each other can be great, but comparing your own confidence and ability is not helpful. Everyone will be feeling some level of anxiety and nerves and that's completely normal, but some people show it more than others. Focus on your strengths and progress rather than comparing yourself to others who might seem more confident or less stressed. It is important to remember that outward appearances don’t always reflect the inner thoughts and feelings.  
2. Find a method that works for you. Some ways of revising and scheduling can be more intense, this can be great for some people but can be unproductive for others. For me, planning exactly what I was doing each day was key. This includes planning in breaks and time to be outside! It also includes the day of the exam, ensuring that you have other things ready, such as knowing where your exam room is and double checking the time of the exam so that the only thing you need to be concerned about on the day is the actual exam and nothing else. 

3. Become familiar. If you can visit the place where you are going to be completing your exam or giving your presentation, then do! If you are giving an oral presentation, it can be really useful to practice in the room you are presenting in! I did this during my master’s, and I wish I had done the same during my undergrad, as it really helped to settle some of the nerves! If you can find any practice papers doing these in a timed setting can be really beneficial. Anything that means that the exam itself is less ‘unusual’ or ‘abnormal’ can help settle some stress on the day. If you aren’t able to do these then make sure to turn up early and just become familiar with the setting before you go in! 

Tiff – Student Opportunities 

1. Write things down – prizes! I often find that I think I have a lot more to do than in reality, and that is what causes stress. So, I write everything down. I make a lot of to-do lists and set myself deadlines and small 'prizes' for completing each section. 

2. Goblin Tools. I sometimes exaggerate or underestimate how long something will take, and goblin tools have a time estimator. This has saved me from last-minute late-night cram sessions because I was able to better estimate how long something would take.  

3. Take time out. Lastly, make sure you still have time to have fun. Going on walks, keeping up with your hobbies, going to society/club events, and taking time to still be yourself, outside of your studies.  

Elain – Welsh Culture & UMCA 

1. Lists. This Christmas, make a list of all the things you would like to do, and check them off as you go along. It’s a great way to stay organised and make sure you enjoy every special moment of the season. Whether it's decorating the tree, baking cookies, or attending holiday events, ticking off each item will make your Christmas feel even more rewarding. 

2. Self-care. In the midst of the holiday season, don’t forget to look after your wellbeing. You can’t fulfill your potential or enjoy the festivities if you aren’t taking care of yourself. Make time for rest, self-care, and relaxation, ensuring you stay healthy and happy throughout the holiday season. 

3. Quality time with loved ones. Lastly, make sure to spend quality time with your friends and family. The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to reconnect, create memories, and enjoy each other's company. Whether it's sharing a meal or simply relaxing together, these moments are what make Christmas truly special. 

Bayanda – President 

1. Practice Mindful Breaks. 

• Use short mindfulness exercises to calm your mind. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer quick, guided meditations. 

• Try the "4-7-8 breathing technique": inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds, and exhale slowly for 8 seconds. This can instantly reduce stress. 

2. Exercise or Stretch. 

• Physical activity, even a short walk, boosts endorphins and reduces cortisol (the stress hormone). 

• If you’re stuck indoors, try a 5-minute stretch. 

3. Organise Study Time. 

• Use the Pomodoro Technique (study for 25 minutes, break for 5 minutes) to avoid burnout. 

• Write down small, manageable goals for each session—it feels good to check things off your list!