I've been reading a new book on minimalism, and it's led me to consider a lot of interesting points, especially about consciously making the decision to grow emotionally and mentally in a healthy way.
I've noticed that I, personally, have reached a point in the semester where I'm falling into a normal schedule. That's not a bad thing, but I've forgotten to be thoughtful when going about my days.
So, last night, I journaled about how I can improve myself and my surroundings and decided to share some. Keep reading for building that self-love that we all deserve. :)
1. Cut the negativity
People get so easily sucked into drama and gossip, and it takes a lot of unnecessary time and energy out of everyone involved. So, cut that bs out of your life because you! don't! need! it!
2. Be optimistic
After you do #1, being optimistic is 100 times easier. Look at the bright side of things and always appreciate the present. Start the day with a positive outlook and carpe diem!
3. Invest in yourself
There is nothing more important than improving yourself. Whether it's taking a class you're interested in or reading books on a new skill you want to learn, it is always worth it to invest in yourself.
4. Invest in your relationships
When you go home over break, call that good friend from high school. When you're on campus, grab brunch with some friends who aren't in your usual circle. Every individual has a unique story and you never know where you may cross with paths with others later. Who knows? Maybe you'll even get a new life-long friend.
5. Make time for self-care
Block out a couple hours at the end of the week or maybe 30 minutes each day for yourself to just wind down and reflect. Often times we get caught up in studying or working and the schedule we're so accustomed to, and even 30 minutes of doing something completely different at the end of the day or week can help reset. I like to read a couple chapters of a new book or an old favorite or journal for a little before bed.
6. Be open
Don't close yourself from opportunities just because you've settled into a pattern or schedule. There's always new people to meet and new things to learn. It's great if you have a squad to get breakfast, lunch, and dinner with everyday, but try heading to the dining hall alone and see who's there that's outside your usual circle. Perhaps there's a new club on campus that focuses on a cause you're interested in, but none of your friends want to go to the first meeting with you. Oh well! Go for it, and make the most of it.
7. Avoid comparison
This one is really hard. We've grown up in a society, especially females, where we are pit against each other constantly, and that mindset is hard to get rid of. I still find myself doing it, and I have to consciously recognize it. When I catch myself, I stop and say "good for them" and go back to doing whatever I was doing.
8. Write down and commit to your goals
I know new year is coming up, and it's tempting to wait until then, but just take a few minutes and think about how you want to finish the semester or short term goals you have. Write them down, and write down how you can achieve them. Maybe you want to run a half-marathon in the spring, so you want to run everyday to prepare, or you're on the brink of an A in that one class with the really hard teacher, and you have to ace the last test to get it.
9. Take care of your body
I'm talking about those Friday and Saturday nights out. Imagine not taking it too far and waking up not hungover. Of all people, I know how hard it is, but maybe cut yourself off at the pregame or make a deal with a friend to share a cup at the party. Have fun, but just remember in the long run, the extra calories and painful mornings are sometimes not worth it.
10. Take chances
Text that guy! (or not because you're already thriving and don't need no mans) Take that class! Buy that dress! Go on that hike with your friends! Go on a spontaneous weekend trip! Do something beyond your comfort zone because that's when you really start to live life.
Going to the cinema alone is good for your mental health, says science
women in street dancing
Photo by 
man and woman standing in front of louver door
Photo by 
man in black t-shirt holding coca cola bottle
Photo by 
red and white coca cola signage
Photo by 
man holding luggage photo
Photo by 
topless boy in blue denim jeans riding red bicycle during daytime
Photo by 
trust spelled with wooden letter blocks on a table
Photo by 
Everyone is Welcome signage
Photo by 
man with cap and background with red and pink wall l
Photo by 
difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations desk decor
Photo by 
photography of woman pointing her finger near an man
Photo by 
closeup photography of woman smiling
Photo by 
a man doing a trick on a skateboard
Photo by 
two men 
running man on bridge
Photo by 
orange white and black bag
Photo by 
girl sitting on gray rocks
Photo by 
assorted-color painted wall with painting materials
Photo by 
three women sitting on brown wooden bench
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
Photo by 
people sitting on chair in front of computer
