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By: Cecilia Gutierrez
College is scary. Post grad is scary. Being young and growing up is scary. What is even scarier is all the questions people love to bombard you with, and feeling overwhelmed constantly. Sometimes it is really important to slow down, look around, and appreciate where you are. Although I am still learning and growing, here are a few things that help me feel a little better in this crazy whirlwind of life.
1. Call your mom and talk to your family regularly.
They love you and are some of your biggest supporters. Keep them close. See them as often as you can.
2. Smile at strangers.
You do not know who's day you will make when you do this. Also, isn't it great when a stranger smiles at you? Pass it along.
3. Reward yourself.
Buy that $8 latte or a sweet treat. Every day is worth celebrating.
4. Listen to what kids have to say.
Most times their sheer kindness and innocence is something we can learn from.
5. Drink water!
Sometimes a fun water bottle and a way to stay hydrated will make your day.
6. Move your body.
Go on a walk. Go on a run. Go to a fun workout class. Whether it is 10 minutes or 3 hours, move a little.
7. Take a nap.
Rest and take time for yourself.
8. Find joy in daily activities.
Even if it is just your daily coffee… make it something to smile about.
9. Take everything less seriously.
We only get to be in our 20s once. We only get to live once. Have fun with it.
10. Tell people you love them.
Cherish your friends and family and let them know how much they mean to you. Appreciate your people.
11. Travel with your friends.
Get out of your comfort zone. Try new places and new foods.
12. Explore your current city.
There are a lot of hidden gems all around you. Appreciate where you are right now because who knows where you will be in the next year!
13. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Forgive yourself.
Look at how far you have come, you can keep going! It will be ok.
14. Read a book.
This is also a good way to destress and wind down. Don’t stop learning!
15. Start now.
There is no better time than the present. Don't wait around. Be proactive.
16. Say “yes” more often.
You are as young as you will ever be right now. Take advantage of that!
17. Spend time outside.
Enjoy nature and what it has to offer. You also need fresh air!
18. Clean your room.
And keep it clean! Not only is it a good habit, but you want to have a clean, comforting, refreshing, and enjoyable space that is just for you!
19. Remember the people you feel your best around.
Who are the people that when you leave them you can say “wow, today was a really good day.”
20. You are important.
Don’t forget to tell yourself that!
21. Speak to yourself kindly.
You are a reflection of how you treat yourself. Stop self deprecating!
22. Ask for help and ask for what you want and need.
And don't be afraid to do so. If it matters, ask for it. Open doors, make meaningful connections, and be your own advocate.
Remember that we are all living for the first time. There is no secret on the “right” way to do life, but there are ways to make it a little better. Keep your head up.
About The Author:
Cecilia Gutierrez '23
Human Dimensions of Organization
Entrepreneurial LeadHERship Fall 2023 Student
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