This is my reflection of myself, mid-way through the summer. Here's the first part of the series "The Summer of You" if you need a catch up! During this past semester I told my friend Alex, about this idea I had. I told her some goals I wanted to pursue, and most importantly I told her that I wanted this summer to focus on bettering myself. This all started by a casual talk in a dorm room, and now looking back I am so happy I started this journey.
So what I have learned mid way through this little adventure of mine is that changing is hard, and I am sure many people already know that. I started this adventure because of my many insecurities with myself. If you have a problem with yourself then the only thing you can do is make a change in your everyday lifestyle. It isn't going to come over night either, I learned I have to continue to push myself. Here are the goals I set at the beginning of the summer:
1. Eat Better
2. Lose Weight
3. Do "everything I want to do"
4. Hang out with my friends
5. Save Money
6. Go on a Mini Adventure
7. Study- (taking voice lessons & piano lessons)
8. Relax
9. Volunteer
Those who know me, or have seen me this summer so far, might say I haven't done too many of these goals I have listed above. So what do I do? I have about a month and two weeks to get my act together, really buckle down, and accomplish these goals.
Let me start with telling you the ones I have started on: I have done everything I wanted to do, I have hung out with my wonderful friends, I have saved (some) money, I did a lot of volunteering, and I have been studying a lot. I am really proud of that one, I have came so far in just a few weeks, and I have more to come.
Summer is supposed to be a "break" but to me it's called a "catch up". I call it that because I like to catch up on everything, really take my time, and get ready for the fall. So the next half of my summer is going to be spent focusing on the other goals I have yet to start on.
People may wonder why would I do this now, in such a time with everything that's going on in the world. But seriously what better time would I have? With everything going on making yourself a better "you" is a good thing. You can alter your goals based on what you need. What I stay focused on while doing this is making sure I follow these guidelines I set for myself.
1. Focus on you:
I wanted to make this summer about me, and what I wanted to do. I wanted to study more, have fun with my best friends, and relax to get geared back up for school this coming fall. It is important that we don't get burnt out of our everyday lives; which is easy to do.
2. Follow what your heart desires:
A big part of this generation is focused on what others think about you. I am one to admit that I have major insecurities, but I am not scared of what other's think of me. That isn't in a careless way, I am respectful of others, but when people are just plain out mean to you or don't like you for some "reason" then there isn't anything you can do. People should follow their hearts, wear what you want, shout to the moon, and live your life the way you want to. That's the most important thing; as long as you are happy with yourself.
3. RELAX:
The main reason I wanted to do something like this is because after my first year of college and being off on my own I was so stressed as this year went on. Taking the time to rejuvenate over the summer is important, even if it's just for a little bit. One of the big changes I made since I have been home is staying off social media at least one hour each day. I read a book or watch an episode of something that I like. Since I have done this it has really helped me focus on myself, and doing something I enjoy.
Now I am not saying you have to do any of this, this is just some things that I have learned this summer, and things that I want to accomplish within myself. If you are looking to make some changes maybe you can find some things you like, or change them to fit your lifestyle. I had a fantastic first half of summer, and I am excited to see what the rest of the summer holds. Just remember to always take time for yourself, and here's to "The Summer of You."
