Getting along with classmates

School can often come with various challenges that you don't face in the workplace. People cut you off in the hallways, someone cheats off you during a test, or you are the victim of the football team's jokes. How can you get along with classmates, especially the ones that are really difficult? Here are some tips that may help:

Tip # 1 - Relax
If someone does something that bothers you or offends you, take a moment to relax and just breathe before you relax. Reacting on raw emotion can often make the situation worse. Take 3 deep breaths and count to ten while you breathe in and out, this will help to calm the nervous system and provide you with clarity before you react to something. Giving yourself time to think will also help you think about the consequences for your actions. This can help you make a good decision and avoid making the situation worse.

Tip # 2 - Exercise
One of the best ways to get along with others is to exercise. Exercise helps to release tension and this allows you to be a better friend because you have a positive mood. Exercise also boosts your self-esteem and self-confidence, both of which can help you survive the hallways of school. Take an exercise class at school and interact with your classmates during this time. This is a great way to get to know them better and you share a common interest which is to take good care of your physical body.

Tip # 3 - Talk
If you have issues with some of your classmates, talk to them about it. Discuss some ways you can make your relationship better. Perhaps you have a classmate that likes to cheat off you during tests, talk to this person about doing their own work or talk to the teacher about moving you to a different seat. When you confront the other person about their behavior, many of them will be willing to change to make your relationship better.
Tip # 4 - Listen
Almost every argument or disagreement in any relationship is caused from miscommunication and lack of listening. When your classmates are talking to you, make the time to actually listen to what they are saying. Give them your full attention by giving them eye contact, repeating some of the things they are saying, and avoiding distractions. When you actually make the time to listen to your classmates, you will draw closer to them and this could develop into a great friendship.
Tip # 5 - Make Changes
When it comes to getting along with your classmates, you may need to make a few changes to your personality. If you are having trouble getting along with others, determine what the roadblock is. Why are your classmates rejecting you? Do you have annoying habits that you can work on to make your relationship better? You don't have to completely change who you are, but you need to be open to change. If you are the friend that tends to hold everyone else back, stop being this friend and try branching out of your comfort zone.
Getting through the school years is tough for anyone. There is a lot of pressure to fit in and be socially accepted by your classmates. Be true to who you are and make friends with the people that you get along with. Give your classmates respect and expect the same from them in return. If there are situations that need attention from school administration make sure to bring those situations to their attention (like underage drinking or illegal substances at school.)