Crossing into the second half of college brings a sudden shift: the finish line is finally in sight, and lock-in mode is officially activated. That doesn’t just mean locking in on studying and classes—it means doing everything possible to guarantee a job after graduation. The fear of being unemployed is so daunting to a young twenty-something that we do everything in our power to make sure we stand out. For me, that means working three jobs, holding leadership roles, and constantly going through LinkedIn.
But at the end of the day, is a jam-packed schedule worth it if it leads straight to burnout? Realizing working myself into burnout at 23 isn’t worth it, I decided to take a moment to think about what really is important.
Ever since I set my sights on my dream career, I have constantly been go-go-go. Slowly, I ran out of time for my friends, workouts, and calling home. While success requires sacrifices, my mental health and relationships are worth more than any success a job could get me.
That realization led to my Rule of Three: stay consistent with one thing old, one thing new, and one thing challenging. Every semester, I set three non-negotiable goals completely detached from school or work that prioritize my well-being:
1. Something Old: This semester, my priority is making consistent time for my friends I used to live with—people I’d easily drift from without intentional effort. Without this rule, those connections would simply fade.
2. Something New: My new focus this semester is cooking. Rather than picking up food or making something easy and not good for me, I have started to take the time to learn how to cook new meals that are nutritionally beneficial and delicious. This has easily become one of my favorite parts of my day (ask me how to make the best steak).
3. Something Challenging: My challenge for the semester is to go to my workout classes at least four times a week. Fitting in four-plus workouts a week isn’t easy, but forcing myself to go during early mornings or right after working a long day has been the ultimate test of discipline.
At the end of the day, work-life balance isn’t a simple 50/50 split you suddenly figure out. It’s an intentional choice you have to make every single day. Implementing my ‘Rule of Three’ didn’t make my schedule any less packed, but it completely changed my attitude and how I continue to show up for myself. You don’t have to sacrifice your health or your happiness to prove you’re dedicated. LinkedIn connections come and go, but the real-life relationships you build with your friends—and with yourself—are what actually last.
