Sanity under pressure

Surviving the Common Application Phase
You made your list. But now you’ve got seven browser tabs open with Common App, college websites, College Essay Guy, and a Google doc. You have music playing in your ear and the snack in front of you is stale. Your mom just asked where you are on your applications. You want to scream. Or cry. Or close your eyes and hope everything magically sorts itself out.
 
The college application phase can feel like a full-time job and an identity crisis rolled into one. It does not have to drive you crazy. Here is how to preserve your peace and pursue your purpose.

Reframe the Narrative
You are more than an application. You are not your GPA, your list of activities or even your essay about resilience (or personal growth or challenges or values). This season is important. BUT IT IS NOT EVERYTHING.

Try saying: “I’m building a future, not proving my worth.”

Sanity-Saving Habits

• Make a weekly power hour
  • Choose one hour a week for focused app work
  • No interruptions, no multitasking
• Pick a vibe enhancer
  • A candle, playlist, special place in your house
  • Make yourself feel safe and supported while working
• Use a Master Spreadsheet
  • Track deadlines, supplementals and essay status in one spot
    
  • Need help building one? I’ve got you! Having me handle this part will definitely take some stress off of your plate
    
• Set boundaries with college talk
  • Let your friends and family know when you want to chat about apps or when you don’t
    
  • You’re allowed to take breaks!
• Celebrate micro-wins
  • Finished a short answer? Treat yourself
    
  • Transcripts were sent by your counselor? Victory dance
  • Progress deserves celebration

 
Listen to the Elders
Talk with older peers, siblings, relatives or teachers to learn about their stress-saving strategies. Ask them what helped them manage stress, what they’d do differently, and what actually mattered at the end. It’s difficult to see inside the hurricane, but they have made it to the other side.
 
This journey is yours. Lean on your people, listen to your gut, and don’t forget to breathe. The path may twist but it leads somewhere beautiful!