As summer reaches its final stretch, we are reminded that it's back to reality. Whether this is the start of a new school year, the end of a vacation, a new job, or simply getting back into the routine of things, fall is approaching which means the start of something new *cue High School Musical*. With this said, a new start means new experiences, including new stressors. It doesn't matter who you are, or where you come from -- life happens. Below are 5 friendly reminders to keep handy:
1. Don't Be Too Hard On Yourself
We are our own worst critics. As humans, we are are constantly changing. Each day we are growing, and we aren't the same people as we were the day before. We continue to learn from the past, and gain knowledge for our future. However, sometimes we don't like change. We like to be comfortable and stay steady. This is when we need to remember that it is okay to make mistakes; it's okay to have bad days; it's okay if all you want to do is sleep in and take a day to yourself. We are only human.
2. Remember That It Is Okay To Put Yourself First
As I get older, this is something that I constantly remind myself and others. For me, helping others is my second nature. I have a tendency to drop whatever I'm doing when I know that someone else needs my help. . . Sound familiar? Yet, if you're constantly helping everyone around you but yourself, are you really helping? Even though it may seem like the hardest thing, saying "no" isn't a bad thing. Remember that putting yourself first doesn't make you a bad person, it can actually make you a better person. Taking time for yourself and becoming the best version of yourself not only benefits you, but the ones that need your help as well. Wouldn't you want to help others when you're at your best rather than when you have other things going on in the back of your head?
3. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is key. Your body needs rest. No assignment, job, task, or person is worth damaging your health (OK, maybe not as drastic, but pretty close). You need a good amount of rest to function -- I can sense the eye rolls. With work, school, homework, extracurricular activities, family, friends, meals, etc., how can you possibly get enough rest? You have to make time. This goes along with putting yourself first -- Take naps. Skip your late night show. Turn your phone off. Resist the urge to binge watch a new Netflix series before heading to bed. Take a shower in the morning. Eat earlier. Whatever you need to do, no matter how difficult it may be, no excuses, you must sleep. You, your body, and your teachers/employers will thank you!
4. Stay Focused
Remember to keep to your goals and aspirations. Too many people go through life wondering "what if?" There is a reason that you've stuck to that dream since you were 4 years old. You are important, and that makes your goals just as important. Don't give up too easily; you'll be surprised with the outcome.
5. Believe In Yourself
If you don't believe in yourself, how could you expect to have others believe in you? We are capable of so much more than we know. Remember the time where you thought you were at your lowest, and you came out of it stronger and better than before? See. Believe that you can do it. Believe that you can do better. Believe that you have a purpose. Believe that you can make a difference. Remember that you are more than enough. You can accomplish anything.
