Peace of Mind

So far my stress levels have been CONSIDERABLY lower this year than last year.  I know part of this is due to the fact that I know what I am getting myself into this time around.  I am halfway through my pre-clinical years and know what to expect from this year.

But I think the real reason is something else.  I stopped talking to my classmates.  This may sound bitchy or reclusive, but it has really saved me a lot of stress.  Don’t get me wrong, I am not mean to anyone and I still have a very select few classmates that I talk to regularly.  But for the most part all everyone wants to talk about is how stressed/tired/sick of studying they are.  If you only talk about the negative, you will focus on the negative, and begin to believe only negative.  It is draining and stressful.  I don’t get stressed about classes easily, but when I am constantly bombarded by it, I break down.  I am much happier and perform better on tests when I am not stressed.  So make friends who are interested in talking about more than the next test you have coming up.  If that means cutting out a few people, trust me it will be worth it!  It has really made a huge difference in my outlook on life this year.  Try it for a week and let me know how you feel.

He calls it slacking off, I call it maintaining my sanity

http://www.medschoolhell.com/2007/02/19/five-ways-to-slack-off-and-still-do-well-in-medical-school

Great resource from medschoolhell!  This blog is no longer active, but the archives still have some great info.  Check them out once you have used these tips to gain some more free time.

Welcome!

I am a second year medical student who is still figuring this whole thing out.  My first year was by far the most miserable year of my life.  I was constantly stressed out, tired, and behind on classes.  My goal for this year is to change that & I want to share my experience.  I don’t believe med school has to be completely miserable.