If you ask a law student how they are feeling during the semester, one of the most common responses you will hear is “overwhelmed.” As a first-year law student, this could not be more true. That said, there are several ways to help manage that feeling.

First, make a plan. Each Sunday, I set aside time to create a game plan for the week ahead. I begin with my class schedule, map out which days I need to complete readings for each subject, note deadlines for papers, assignments or projects, and then intentionally schedule time for myself. This process will look different for everyone, but knowing what needs to be done and checking tasks off as you go is a powerful way to feel accomplished each day.

Second, take time to reflect. One of the best pieces of advice I received entering my 1L year was to pause and remind myself why I am here. Many students come to law school with extraordinary resumés and long lists of achievements, which can make it easy to doubt yourself when things get tough. It is important to step back and remember that you earned your place at KU Law. You belong here and recognizing that can help quiet the feeling of being overwhelmed and reinforce your ability to succeed.

Third, not every second of your day can, or should, be devoted to law school. Taking breaks and allowing your mind and body to reset is essential. While this can feel difficult when your workload is heavy, rest is necessary for productivity. What a break looks like varies from person to person. When I notice that I am no longer retaining what I am reading or cannot stay focused, I go for a walk, check my phone, call a friend or family member or watch some football. These small moments away from school help me reset and return with renewed focus.

Finally, and most importantly, do not lose sight of who you are. Law school should not completely consume you. When you stop feeling like yourself, everything becomes more difficult. Make time for something to look forward to whether that is a day trip to Kansas City, trying something new with friends in Lawrence or simply spending an evening on the couch watching a movie.

In law school, there will always be something more you could be doing, and that will never change. However, that random day in October when you took a three-hour break will not hurt you come December. In fact, it might be the reason you make it to the end of the semester without burning out. Find a balance, take things one day at a time and do not let the feeling of being “overwhelmed” control your life. You’ve got this!

-Ben Helleloid is a 1L KU Law Student Ambassador from Mitchell, South Dakota