I have a problem with overworking myself. In fact, a part of me genuinely believes that I can take on everything and do so perfectly. I would rather die trying than give up. On the one hand, this trait is not always bad. It assisted my 4.0 and leadership positions in high school, which never disappointed me until last week.

Since mid-September, I had been continuously exhausted. No matter how much I slept at night, I would wake up as I had never rested. Fortunately, I knew my body felt off, and I was persistent. I finally visited the doctor last week and discovered the root of the problem. I was stressed, and it was beginning to affect not just my mind but also my body. As a result, I decided that it was time to prioritize my mental health.

I cut out most of my schedule’s events. I went to class, did school work, and spent time recharging with my family and friends. When I was hungry, I ate. When I was tired, I slept. These tasks may sound like the bare minimum, but for me, they were monumental. Gradually, I felt like myself again–a better version. These weary weeks taught me that although academic success is essential, it is not more vital than my health. After I graduate college, I want to remember memories with my best friends, not quiz grades. In the end, your body knows precisely what you need. You just have to quiet your mind and listen.