I'm in for a really difficult semester. My classes are interesting, but I feel like a dunce in one and can barely get through the reading for another. It's like my brain won't process the material or even focus long enough so I can attempt to decipher the theories it presents. On the one hand, I'm beyond thrilled to finally be reading Descartes and Locke and Foucault and Derrida because they're brilliant. It's such a surreal feeling to read classic literature, but it's extremely frustrating at the same time. Sometimes the text is so far beyond my scope of comprehension that I can only skim along until I find a word I recognize and then try to suss out the meaning, which is generally nowhere near what the authors originally intended. I'm reading a nonsensical 500-page novel in which the author delights in toying with his readers to the point where I'm laughing one instant then want to chuck it out the window the next. I'm attempting to decipher arcane postcolonial literary theory and partake in a conversation 80 years in the making. I am in way over my head, but I am excited because I know this can only make me a stronger student and a better person.

When we are challenged, we learn the most.

When our brains ache from information overflow, we are making progress.

When we are at the brink and want to quit, we need to rise above our challenges and define their impact on our lives.

A few days ago, I considered dropping one of my classes in order to add another that might not be so difficult. I wanted a class in my comfort zone. I'm torn because I'm here to broaden my knowledge, but I also want to learn about topics that interest me. After stewing and reflecting, I think this is an important decision. I'm going to stay in these difficult classes because they are challenging.

I'm going to have to fight to get the grades I want. I'm going to have to put in extra time and effort to understand what I'm learning. I'm going to have to push myself to ask for clarification when I don't understand. I'm going to have to change my habits if I want to be successful.

"Challenge is the pathway to engagement and progress in our lives. But not all challenges are created equal. Some challenges make us feel alive, engaged, connected, and fulfilled. Others simply overwhelm us. Knowing the difference as you set bigger and bolder challenges for yourself is critical to your sanity, success, and satisfaction." -Brendon Burchard

Life is a constant flux and flow: you need to be adaptable. Embrace the challenges in your life. See them as opportunities for growth. Let these trials serve as motivation to be better, quicker, smarter.

Change your perspective on challenges. How can these difficulties prepare me for the future? These classes will destroy my semester, or they will force me to work hard, prioritize my education and expand my knowledge. They can either smother the flame or light the spark within you.

The outcome is up to you.