Trying to find Balance in life as a College Senior: Is there really such a thing?

Let’s be real — nobody is perfect when it comes to trying to finding balance. You might be wondering, what does even balance look like? To me, “balance” is simply learning how to distribute your own energy between the things you need physically, mentally, and emotionally in our own lives.

Where do I begin — When I first got to college over three years ago (which is still insane to say out loud) I came from four years of high school where every day looked exactly the same: wake up at 6:30 in the AM, eat breakfast, go to school, sit in back-to-back classes, variety swim practice, go home, eat sleep, repeat. There was no balance, just routine.

I didn’t know how to manage my anxiety or mental health back then. Honestly, most of it showed up during swim meets. So, when I arrived at college, I felt completely lost. I suddenly had the freedom to shape my life and become who I wanted to be, and make decisions without my family around. But, as I learned freedom doesn't come with a guidebook.

As the second semester had approached, something still felt off. I was doing school work, working out, and spending time with friends…but I didn’t feel grounded. Something was truly missing, and I didn’t know what.

Fast forward three years later— I have transferred universities, I’m now a college senior and as I type this, I still dont fully know what “balance” looks like for me. I’m 21, majoring in Business Administration and Marketing major at Marist University, juggling harder classes, a social media and marketing internship, friendships, and my own anxiety. Some days if can feel very heavy.

But, I’ve learned that balance isn’t a perfect routine, it’s the small moments that make you feel like you. Waking up and moving your body that feels right to you, cooking a comfort meal that reminds you of your childhood. Looking through old pictures, reading a book or even catching up on schoolwork. Doing hobbies that put a smile on your face.

These little things add up. They’re what brings happiness into your day, and they’re what helps you figure out what balance means for you. As I still struggle comparing myself to others, I am learning to focus on what works for me. When you choose the things that make you feel alive and feel good, you grow into a version of yourself you once dreamed about.

Long story short, we all have hopes and dreams and we can absolutely get there. One day, our younger selves will be so proud of how far we’ve come. So yes, balance is possible but it looks different for everyone.

That being said. Be YOU. Keeping doing YOU. And everything else will fall into place.

Balance is not something you find, it is something you create.