With summer coming to a close and school starting in less than a month, I wanted to start out my freshman year in college with some new knowledge at hand. As I began to reflect on all that has happened this summer, I came to realize that with a fresh mindset, I can face this new chapter in my life with a brighter perspective. So, with that said, here are a list of five things that I learned this summer that enabled me to face obstacles or each day head-on.
#1: No matter the distance, any relationship is difficult to manage.
For practically the whole month of July, my boyfriend and I spent time apart due to vacations, work, and family time. Of course, it reallt is not that long, but, after having been together so frequently during school or the past few months to suddenly not seeing each other was a bit of a shock to the system. At this time, communication became rather difficult to convey due to the lack of face-to-face contact or even a simple phone call. To understand the tone in a message is nearly impossible and to ask for clarification can sometimes come off as rude. But, ultimately, I discovered that even if there are bumps in the road or disagreements from time to time, that shouldn't be the end all to any relationship. This coincides with friends, too. My advice for any relationship in terms of fighting is to think ahead to the next 24 hours. Will this issue really bother me tomorrow morning, or am I just upset in the moment? Take a step back, breathe a bit, and move on if you must, or, bring up the issue calmly and discuss from there on.
#2: Surround yourself with people who bring out the best in you.
The transition from school to summer with friends can really test your relationship. You begin to discover that those who you thought were closest to you, really want to be on their own or perhaps move on from their past relationships and proceed towards the future. Either way it is served, this can leave some heartache when you are the one left behind. However, this "change" is not all that bad. Just because they have moved on does not mean you cannot proceed. Rather, try extending a hand out to those who have not left your side. Do not be rude towards those who you have lost touch with, do not wish ill-will on their next chapter, but instead, accept that time changes a lot of people and that by clinging to those who allow you to be yourself, you are given the opportunity to fully blossom and shine.
#3: Travel often.
Recently I went on a small road trip with my best friend's family and honestly, I don't think I have ever laughed so much in my entire life. Though getting there was quite tedious and roads seemed to never end, all the memories I made along the way were absolutly priceless. Having been to a few states here and there in my 18 short years on this Earth, never had I really explored my own. Making our way up north through Santa Barbara, Cambria, Monterey, and Seaside allowed me to truly examine the complexity and diverse terrain that our state holds. From the crystal-clear coastline to the evergreens and pines in the mountains, the change in scenery was breathtaking.
#4: Be patient, the results will come.
For the last four weeks, I have decided to get real serious about my fitness. In addition to cutting back on carbs and calories, I fit in a workout, at least 4 times a day, centering on toning and slimming my waist and legs. Growing up, I dedicated my time to sports, such as soccer or cross country, and never really had to worry about being in shape since practice was mandatory. Now, with my choice to ride solo, I have placed all the pressure on myself, not a coach, to guide me. That being said, after each workout, I have found myself sometimes getting frustrated over not shrinking in in the past hour. While of course I know that it takes time, what I have learned to do is focus my motivation in the long run so that when I look back on it, I can say "look how far I have come."
#5: Laughter cures everything.
Need I say more?
