How to Get Through a Long Day

It's a matter of planning and perspective.

Originally published on April 3, 2017

I'm writing this article after two “15 hour” days in a row (a Monday and a Tuesday no less!). There have been longer days as well – some by choice, others not so much. Such is the life of a music major college student. But after a few semesters of doing this here are a few tips to get you through these long days.

1. Plan ahead

I make a to-do list for every day as it is, but it is especially important for days like this. If there are things you need to do every day but a different activity will take away from the time you usually spend doing them, make sure you write it down so you can do it later that night or the next day. Too many times I have almost forgotten to do homework because I assumed I had finished it already.

2. Budget your time

Knowing when everything happens is also extremely important, especially if it is an activity you don't do often at a place you are not usually. If you are used to relaxing or doing homework when you are supposed to be somewhere else, set alarms for yourself. Add in packing and travel time so you aren't late. You can even plan in getting some homework done in your free time, or plan for what you will do the next day.

3. Snacks!

Pack plenty of snacks throughout the day. If you're like me, you might not have too much time between activities to eat a full meal, or you might just forget if you are squeezing other things into your usual meal time. Having plenty of snacks will give you a little boost to get through that last activity. Make sure you drink plenty of water too to stay alert!

4. Positive thinking

Your thoughts as soon as you wake up are the most important of the day. They can determine if you will be in a positive or negative mood (in my experience, “waking up on the wrong side of the bed” is a real thing). Therefore, thinking positively will get you through the day. A negative attitude will only make a long day drag. By taking a few seconds and thinking about everything you will accomplish that day, you will be in a better mood for the whole day. If you can't find anything to be happy about in the day, just focus on tomorrow; it will be here before you know it!

5. Short-term

It's only one day. You can get through one long day. Be a rock star, push through it all, and look forward to a comfy bed once the day is through; you will have earned it!

I know going into the future I will continue to have days like this for as long as I play music. Using these habits I am picking up now will definitely be useful in the future to keep my head on straight and to get through some long days.