No doubt you are working around the clock to complete your assignments, sit your exams and do the myriad of things that law students are required to do. But as we move into the weekend, why not take some time to step out of the fast lane and slow things down just a little.
Take a deep breath and give yourself a pat on the back for all your hard work. It is worth acknowledging your commitment to your law course. That takes a huge amount of dedication – we know!
There is much to look forward to around the corner as you approach the final stages of your law degree. As one of our Mentors said recently, “Law is such a rewarding career!” But when you are buried in study it can be difficult to look up and see how much progress you are making.
After years of working with graduates, our Director Practical Legal Training, Madeleine Dupuche, shares some of the simple things she has learned that help find your footing during busy assessment times:
Remember, exam stress is completely normal. Finding ways to manage stress is a skill that you’ll take with you into your legal career too. This weekend, why not try some of the following:
1.Sleep!
Try to get at least 7 hours each night if you can. This is one of the most important of any self–care rules. Any hours of sleep you can get before midnight are like a double shot. So, power up during exams if you can.
2. Plan!
Write yourself a planner for your exam period. Include hourly blocks between about 6 am and 10 pm. This will help you see that there is time for you to get through everything that’s on your plate and can help you to feel less overwhelmed. Allocate blocks of time to:
- study for each exam (break each subject down into topics)
- work on each assignment
- paid/voluntary work hours
- eating/housework/life admin
- time away from work and study and include things you enjoy – time with friends & family, exercise, hobbies.
3. Permission to switch off
Plan your downtime thoughtfully and really give yourself permission to switch off from study so it’s not niggling away in the back of your mind undermining your rest time – another one of the most vital self-care tips!
So you have done the above but still have trouble switching off? Try these little techniques to help:
Look at the sky – have you ever thought about how much time we spend looking down at our screens? Step outside for a circuit breaker and look at the sky. Your neck will thank you, you’ll breathe deep and it will look different every time.
Exercise – I know it’s been said a lot, but those exercise endorphins are good for our brains, whether it’s a walk, run, dance, swim or ride. Give yourself a regular dose.
Read a book – there’s no better way to get out of your own story than to get into someone else’s. Pick an easy read while you are studying. Screen-free time with a good book is like a daily detox ; a chapter a night will help you get to sleep.
Next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, take these exam stress tips into account. It is a great time to develop good patterns for dealing with varying levels of stress as you embark closer toward your legal career.
To find out how we support you during your PLT, see our recent article here.
Want to know more about our course? Book a time to chat with us here.
Director of Practical Legal Training
