Wait? A reality TV show can actually give advice? I know, I thought the same exact thing. "Big Brother" a reality game show, in which 16 houseguests compete for $500K can provide us with real-world solutions to our problems. Cut from the outside world, these
1. Alliances are vital.
In Big Brother, houseguests form "alliances" in order to make it further in the game. Alliances are like partnerships or a mutual bond in which you all make strategic moves that benefit you or your group. In life, alliances are also important. Making sure you have a network of the right people will ultimately benefit you. Whether in your career, school, or friendships, these bonds can propel you to greater success. Always remember: it's not what you know, it's who you know.
2. Expect the Unexpected.
Giphy"Expect the Unexpected" is the motto of 'Big Brother.' You never know what is going to happen. You may be sent home when you were getting comfortable, or you may win the game when you thought your fellow houseguests didn't think you should win. This phrase is one of, if not the best pieces of advice. Always being skeptical is not always a bad trait to have. This can help you with your relationships as well as your friendships. Now, this doesn't mean you can go through someone's stuff at their house, it just means to always maintain a high level of trust with your counterpart. Always being on top of the ball, and one step ahead of everyone else.
3. Keep Your Eye on the Prize.
GiphyIn the game, the goal is to outlast the other houseguests and win the half million dollar prize. Your goal in the real world could be making ten friends in the first week of college, getting straight A's, or even owning your own business by the age of 25. Whatever that goal may be, never lose sight of it. When times get tough, you may lose sight of that ultimate prize, but always making sure not to forget what is important will ultimately help you achieve your version of $500,000.
4. Cut Off from the Outside World.
Unplugging from your devices, not going on social media, living without electronics for a day. These are all examples of being cut off from the outside world. In the game, houseguests are essentially living under a rock. There is no communication with anyone or anything outside of the 'Big Brother' house. No cell phones, tablets, laptops, news; there is absolutely nothing telling the contestants what is going on in the world. This can be beneficial, in a sense that you are more aware of your surroundings. You can have meaningful conversations with other people without being distracted by that cute little puppy on Instagram. Unplugging for a certain amount of time will help ease your mind and can lead to less stress in your life.
5. Be a Good Competitor.
GiphyCompetitions in 'Big Brother' are crucial to staying in the house. Competitions can guarantee safety, power, and even hot showers. Competition can be healthy. Pushing other people to be the best they can promote positive behavior amongst each other. Competing is also extremely fun. It may be stressful, but ultimately it can push characteristics out of you that you never may have thought were there!
6. Think Before You Speak.
Yes, this may seem like common sense, but it has come back to bite people in the game. Just like social media, everything you say and do can follow you for the rest of your life. Being conscious of how you speak to people will make your life a whole lot easier. Be mindful of how other people may feel, and if what you say will impact them negatively. Choosing your words wisely will also help you. Being empathetic or understanding of the person you are talking to, will help you build a strong relationship with them, making you seem more trustworthy and dependable.
7. Be Yourself.
Be who you truly are! This world may seem big, but if you be yourself, the world is yours. People like other people who are genuine and don't try to act like someone or something that they're not. Embrace your individuality because there is only one of you. You will find friends like you, relationships will be easier to stay in, and overall, you will feel a whole lot better knowing that you have people around you that truly know who you are!
