For most of the week, I struggled coming up with an article topic that I was interested in writing. I flipped back and forth with a couple different ideas, but ultimately I thought it would be fitting to do a reflection piece, seeing as it is the end of the semester and the end of my junior year.

Over the course of my three years here at UNI, I have experienced a lot and it's opened my eyes to new things. For the sake of time (and it's less overwhelming), I will narrow it down to just three general topics.

First off, I've learned that sometimes you have to consciously leave a friendship or relationship because it's toxic to you and your journey, and it's not as easy to get over or get through as it might seem. Personally, I experienced this with an ex-friend of mine. Let's say her name is Jane. Jane got new boyfriend, and for awhile, it didn't affect our friendship too much. But after some time had gone by, I started seeing less and less of Jane. Now, Jane did realize she was neglecting our friendship, and tried to amend it. It was, as they say, "easier said than done," because there wasn't much follow-through on those amends. The whole time I understood her actions; that was never the question. I even rationalized her actions, but what I was actually making excuses for her behavior. This is when I realized that I needed to stop doing that and close the door on that relationship. While I have done that, I still let her have power over me. I say no more.

Second off, I've learned that "you are the sun, not him". For Grey's Anatomy fans, they know who I'm quoting. Christina tells this to Meredith. This is some serious truth tea that applies to all sexes. While it's almost laughable coming from someone who's never been in a relationship, but I've realized it's important to not completely lose yourself in someone: in that, you let what they want come before you. You are important, too. You matter too. Relationships are about compromises (and communication is important, too) and if you are the one sacrificing most of the time then maybe it's time to take a step back and re-evaluate the relationship.

And thirdly, I've learned that self-care is just as important as anything. Learning to be kind to yourself is hard to do. Take it from me. If you ask those who really know me, they would tell you that I don't give myself enough credit. I know this about me. But over the last three years, making time for yourself, whether that be in the form of setting some time to enjoy a movie night with a friend or enjoy a nice long, warm bath, is like recharging your internal batteries. In reality, even the Energizer Bunny needs time to recharge. So be kind to yourself mentally and physically, and this means putting yourself first sometimes. Trust me; it's hard, and sometimes you might forget to, but it will be well-worth it.