4 ways hygienists (and students) can stay balanced during this busy season

This season is one of the busiest times of the year. Between the holidays, work, and studying for exams or boards, this time of year can feel overwhelming. Most of the challenges I face this time of year come from a fear of missing out (FOMO).

For example, when I was in hygiene school and preparing for boards, I felt like I never had enough time to study and have a social life as well. I even felt guilty for taking breaks or giving myself a night off because that meant I wasn’t being productive. Even as a full-time hygienist, FOMO can still get to me.

Luckily, I’ve managed to find a balance using a few simple strategies that help me not just survive the season but thrive. Give them a try!

Create and stick to a routine

The single most effective practice I’ve found is to create and stick with a routine. Give yourself time to tend to self-care and nothing else. Whether you spend that time taking a walk, enjoying a bath, or reading a book, make sure you schedule time for yourself. If you don’t build that into your routine, you’ll likely ignore that need, which can push you toward burnout. Whether you’re a student studying for boards or a working hygienist with a packed patient schedule, self-care is important.

A routine will keep you motivated. Because there’s so much to do this time of the year, keeping a schedule can help you stay on top of things. Checking all the boxes is a great feeling, and proof that what you’re doing is working.

Embrace organization

It’s easier to stick to set routines when you’re organized. I use a daily planner and a large calendar to stay on track. When I was a student, I broke down my days into time blocks, which helped me structure my schedule so I could manage everything without too much in any one day.

I worked during my hygiene program, so I structured my workdays so I could study during my breaks and before I went to work, which required me to wake up a few hours early. By structuring my schedule to incorporate realistic time blocks for work, study, self-care, and social obligations, I created space for everything I needed to get done. This reduced my stress, which helped prevent the burnout many hygiene students experience during this busy time of year.

As a full-time hygienist, I still prioritize organization and building in time for all that needs to get done. When my stress levels are low, I’m the best version of myself for my patients and team.

Prioritize stress relief

I’ve found several stress relief strategies. When I need to recharge, I take a break to work out, go on a walk outside, or take a cold shower. I avoid anything that overstimulates my mind or triggers more stress, such as social media or scrolling on my phone.

To keep myself from feeling isolated when there’s so much to do, I surround myself with people who understand and respect my goals. Ultimately, only you can keep yourself on track, but having a circle that supports you will help you remain focused without feeling alone. I’m blessed to have a community of people who make plans around my schedule so I can be included in holiday events.

The key to finding balance between work and play is to set boundaries and stick to them. Don’t overextend yourself to please others if something doesn’t benefit your goals or well-being. I negotiate this balance by having certain times when I’m available socially. This helps me juggle all my obligations while also building in much-needed socializing.

Find your motivational mantra

When you feel overwhelmed, it’s helpful to have a favorite phrase or mantra to remind yourself to slow down and relax, even if only for a moment. My favorite mantra is, “Don’t forget to water yourself.” This means if I want to succeed, I have to take time to attend to my needs so I don’t burn out. Choose a phrase that helps you find balance even during this extremely busy time.

Above all, remember that you can’t do it all if you don’t take care of yourself. Prioritize your mental space and clear out your physical space to find the balance that’s so crucial, especially during this time of year. Make your schedule, get organized, follow a routine, and incorporate “me time.” Remember that with a little bit of discipline, you can thrive during this busy season!