Fast paced MBA learning is not a walk in the park at the best of times. The pressure is felt by the best of us, including your faculty. In fact, a study by National Foundation of Education revealed that 20% teachers feel stressed compared to around 12.5% practitioners in other professions. Last year, we were all put under serious duress due to the pandemic. B Schools had to transition to online mode of teaching that has its own set of stressors. New age management students find themselves in an unenviable position today as they cope with unprecedented levels of stress.

Understanding the predicament and challenges faced by students, some of the best B Schools in the country have integrated creative solutions into the learning experience. They are relying on activities including arts and mindfulness workshops for students to help them beat the stress. As a management student you can also employ some of these strategies to give yourself a breather and a welcome relief from the all around stress you might be experiencing.

• Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge that we are living in unprecedented times. Set yourself realistic expectations and don’t be too hard on yourself if you can’t meet them all. Take steps to prioritize tasks to manage your time and avoid undue pressure.
• Follow some of the tried and tested routines to beat the stress. You can create a quiet corner in your study room where you can meditate to begin your day. It will fill you up with energy to face the challenges of the day.
• Many B Schools today are also actively promoting Yoga sessions for mental and physical wellbeing of students. You can do Yoga on your own or in an online group with your peers and stay motivated in your goals.
• Online learning has resulted in longer and more rigorous schedule for several students. It’s important to take short breaks from your laptops to refresh your mind. Keep a book handy for reading or get involved in gaming, which also allows you to beat the stress.
• To be fair, it’s not that online classes are longer but they can seem that way. Things can get monotonous but you can make the effort to stay engaged. Ask questions through chat boxes, use creative ways like doodling notes to remember the concepts.
• Want to use your spare time constructively? Why not become a part of the startup or incubation club at your B School? Last year has seen the largest number of startup unicorns in the country, and with the right training and mentorship, you could be the next.

You can device your own creative strategies that work for you to cope with the pressures and challenges we are facing today.