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Showing posts with label Growth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Growth. Show all posts
Monday, April 11, 2016
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
The Reality of Roommates
How to survive college roommates?
When moving away to college, the idea of living with strangers can be distressing. Roommate concerns are real and normal. Living with non-family members for an extended period of time can be a challenging change as personalities clash and roommates discover who they want to become.
Every roommate and group of roommates will be different and each will provide a new college experience. Living with roommates will present many learning opportunities whether it be about each other, yourselves, or how to handle conflicts.
Leeyen Roger, from Society 19 shares some advice on getting along with college roommates, "People are unique and different, and your roommate will most likely not have the same living, studying, sleeping, and social habits and that's okay." +SOCIETY19
At the end of April, I will have lived with my third set of roommates during my college years. Through these last three years, I have learned a lot about myself and I'm still learning on how to be a better roommate. With the help of other college bloggers and personal experiences, I have collected a few tips on surviving college roommates.
Communication starts as soon the roommate information emails are sent and should be moderately maintained after your 'roommate' time period. Effective communication with roommates is crucial for having an enjoyable experience and relieving tensions that arise. It is important to note that communication won't always be clear and won't fix everything instantly; it takes constant effort.
Samantha from As Life Grows recommends, "Make sure you keep communication going once you guys move are living together...and talk to them freely." In the past, my roommates and I would communicate on what we would be bring and willing to share for that year and stayed in contact through Facebook and texting. While my current roommates and I didn't exchange summer emails and will most likely stay contact through Snapchat and Instagram.
Alone time is crucial for maintaining a sense of sanity while in college. This time can be spent in various ways: reading, exercising, napping, or talking on the phone. Allowing alone time with benefit yourself and your emotions, as well as your roommates, and then the time spent together will be enjoyed more.
Dorothy from Prep In Your Step shares, "In college you are surrounded by people nearly all the time so a little alone time...is nice!" In the past when I shared a room, I would spend my alone time exercising or in my car talking to my family and friends and it did help clear my mind and be more positive around others.
Living with people in close quarters for an extended period will most likely lead to conversations, meals together, and to actually bonding with each other. Spending time together is an obvious answer but it is remarkable how much that can influence the overall experience of that year. When spending time to bond together, it can help improve other parts of the relationship.
Dorothy from Prep In Your Step recommends, "Just by offering you are allowing your roommate to see that you want to get along and you are finding ways to grow closer." In the past, my roommates and I would spend time together by baking treats and throwing water balloons at people. Currently, my roommates and I spend our time together by eating food and having movie nights.
Most apartments in college, the rooms are shared and the general living area is tiny; which in turns leaves roommates in very close quarters. Without open communication and already set boundaries tensions and conflicts can form very easily. Setting boundaries will create open communication on what should or shouldn't be happening and can create a sense of safety for all roommates involved.
Alisha Krywiak from Society 19 shares, "When setting your boundaries with the other person be very clear about your expectations." In the past, my roommates and I weren't good on setting boundaries on boyfriends and when the conflict rose, it was very challenging so I made sure to set that boundary the following year.
As mentioned above, college apartments tend to lack in space so it is a crucial component to be mindful of the affects of actions or behaviors. When listening to music or watching a movie, opt for headphones for the studying roommate. When having friends over, opt for a warning text or message to inform roommates. Being mindful of actions and their affects can play a big part in the overall roommate experience.
Jessica Pawlarczk from College Candy and Alisha Krywiak from Society 19 recommend, "To make an effort to think about your actions affect others." In the past, my room roommate and I were very mindful in what time we went to bed and woke up, which in turned helped each other sleep despite the different habits. Currently, my roommates are great at being mindful of their actions after midnight because I'm going to bed before them.
Unfortunately, not every roommate relationship will follow the movies and stories of being best friends and forever involved in each other lives. Sometimes roommates don't get along and that's okay. Being civil and respectful is crucial to keep a positive, safe environment throughout the apartment.
Megan from Love Megan June and Erin from Very Erin recommend, "Don't force a friendship that isn't going to happen." In the past, I have had some roommates that I was closer to than others and had a distinct roommate that was very difficult to gain a friendship with but I still treated her with respect and always attempted some sort of conversation.
Everyone has their own quirks, including you. Everyone has been raised different, experienced different things, and have their own opinions and outlooks on life. These difference are what makes each of us are own individual and may cause tensions or conflicts. When conflicts arise, it is important to remember that if someone's quirks are bothering you, your quirks might be bothering them too. Take a step back, breathe, communicate, and focus on the positive.
For more tips and advice on college roommates, check out my Pinterest.
When moving away to college, the idea of living with strangers can be distressing. Roommate concerns are real and normal. Living with non-family members for an extended period of time can be a challenging change as personalities clash and roommates discover who they want to become.
Every roommate and group of roommates will be different and each will provide a new college experience. Living with roommates will present many learning opportunities whether it be about each other, yourselves, or how to handle conflicts.
Leeyen Roger, from Society 19 shares some advice on getting along with college roommates, "People are unique and different, and your roommate will most likely not have the same living, studying, sleeping, and social habits and that's okay." +SOCIETY19
At the end of April, I will have lived with my third set of roommates during my college years. Through these last three years, I have learned a lot about myself and I'm still learning on how to be a better roommate. With the help of other college bloggers and personal experiences, I have collected a few tips on surviving college roommates.
 |
| Roommates 2014-2015 |
Communicate
Communication starts as soon the roommate information emails are sent and should be moderately maintained after your 'roommate' time period. Effective communication with roommates is crucial for having an enjoyable experience and relieving tensions that arise. It is important to note that communication won't always be clear and won't fix everything instantly; it takes constant effort.
Samantha from As Life Grows recommends, "Make sure you keep communication going once you guys move are living together...and talk to them freely." In the past, my roommates and I would communicate on what we would be bring and willing to share for that year and stayed in contact through Facebook and texting. While my current roommates and I didn't exchange summer emails and will most likely stay contact through Snapchat and Instagram.
Alone Time
Alone time is crucial for maintaining a sense of sanity while in college. This time can be spent in various ways: reading, exercising, napping, or talking on the phone. Allowing alone time with benefit yourself and your emotions, as well as your roommates, and then the time spent together will be enjoyed more.
Dorothy from Prep In Your Step shares, "In college you are surrounded by people nearly all the time so a little alone time...is nice!" In the past when I shared a room, I would spend my alone time exercising or in my car talking to my family and friends and it did help clear my mind and be more positive around others.
 |
| Roommates 2013-2014 |
Bond Together
Living with people in close quarters for an extended period will most likely lead to conversations, meals together, and to actually bonding with each other. Spending time together is an obvious answer but it is remarkable how much that can influence the overall experience of that year. When spending time to bond together, it can help improve other parts of the relationship.
Dorothy from Prep In Your Step recommends, "Just by offering you are allowing your roommate to see that you want to get along and you are finding ways to grow closer." In the past, my roommates and I would spend time together by baking treats and throwing water balloons at people. Currently, my roommates and I spend our time together by eating food and having movie nights.
Set Boundaries Early
Most apartments in college, the rooms are shared and the general living area is tiny; which in turns leaves roommates in very close quarters. Without open communication and already set boundaries tensions and conflicts can form very easily. Setting boundaries will create open communication on what should or shouldn't be happening and can create a sense of safety for all roommates involved.
Alisha Krywiak from Society 19 shares, "When setting your boundaries with the other person be very clear about your expectations." In the past, my roommates and I weren't good on setting boundaries on boyfriends and when the conflict rose, it was very challenging so I made sure to set that boundary the following year.
 |
| Roommates 2015-2016 |
Be Mindful
As mentioned above, college apartments tend to lack in space so it is a crucial component to be mindful of the affects of actions or behaviors. When listening to music or watching a movie, opt for headphones for the studying roommate. When having friends over, opt for a warning text or message to inform roommates. Being mindful of actions and their affects can play a big part in the overall roommate experience.
Jessica Pawlarczk from College Candy and Alisha Krywiak from Society 19 recommend, "To make an effort to think about your actions affect others." In the past, my room roommate and I were very mindful in what time we went to bed and woke up, which in turned helped each other sleep despite the different habits. Currently, my roommates are great at being mindful of their actions after midnight because I'm going to bed before them.
Just Friends
Unfortunately, not every roommate relationship will follow the movies and stories of being best friends and forever involved in each other lives. Sometimes roommates don't get along and that's okay. Being civil and respectful is crucial to keep a positive, safe environment throughout the apartment.
Megan from Love Megan June and Erin from Very Erin recommend, "Don't force a friendship that isn't going to happen." In the past, I have had some roommates that I was closer to than others and had a distinct roommate that was very difficult to gain a friendship with but I still treated her with respect and always attempted some sort of conversation.
Quirks
Everyone has their own quirks, including you. Everyone has been raised different, experienced different things, and have their own opinions and outlooks on life. These difference are what makes each of us are own individual and may cause tensions or conflicts. When conflicts arise, it is important to remember that if someone's quirks are bothering you, your quirks might be bothering them too. Take a step back, breathe, communicate, and focus on the positive.
For more tips and advice on college roommates, check out my Pinterest.
What have YOU learned from roommates? Comment Below!
Monday, April 4, 2016
Monday, March 28, 2016
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Away at College VS College at Home
The 'college experience' will vary for each individual based on their college, location, age, roommates, and living arrangements. Together all these components impact a student's experience but individually these components can play a bigger part. Let's focus on one of them: living arrangements.
According to Sallie Mae's college report, the percentage of college students living at home has increased to 54% compared to the previous four years, which leaves 46% of students living away from home during college. Those numbers are roughly the same and great to look at it but how is a student to know which is best for them? Forbes writer, Kate Ashford shares some of advantages and disadvantages of both in "More Millennials Living at Home to Save on College Costs."
Reading these comparisons and statistics, I decided to survey a few college students myself on how the experiences vary between living at home and living away from home. Below you will find the same 5 questions asked to both groups and the students' responses.
Living Away:
Why did you choose to live away from home during college?
1) I couldn't stand living with my trouble-making, younger brother and I was getting frustrated with the lack of freedom I had for being 20 years old.
2) I felt that living away from home as soon as I started college was a natural transition between relying on family and relying on solely myself. At my age, this was an opportunity to start learning how to survive with several of those around me, who were also freshmen straight out of high school.
What are 2 benefits of living away from home?
1) I have greatly increased my freedom compared to when I was living at home and I'm significantly closer to my school.
2) I won't be transitioning into a different lifestyle by myself. I'm surrounded by people who are also going through what I am going through. And I'll most likely be living away from home at some point. It's a good time to go when you're young and straight out of high school, where you're still in the "school" mode.
What are 2 downsides of living away from home?
1) The obvious downsides of living away from home are that I'm away from my family and that I can't have pets in my apartment complex.
2) I'm a huge fan of living separately from my family. I love having those I care about close so that I can spend time with them, and being apart from them has been a huge challenge in my life. And you rely solely on you. You have to go to class and do the homework and student, and you have to take care of yourself. It's all on you, and that is a weird transition.
How would you describe your social life while living away from home?
1) I guess it would be describes as non-existent until I moved out and closer to my school.
2) I moved up to school with one of my good friends and we roomed together. From there, the two of us both made a few really good friends that we spend a lot of our time with.
What are 2 things you've learned from living away from home during college?
1) I've learned how much food actually costs and how bored I get without my little sisters.
2) I've learned that I can get by on my own. I have a job, and now I know that I can do all the basics -- laundry, cooking, grocery shopping. College is this big, scary, mysterious thing that just keeps coming at you until it is finally here and you're pulling through it.
Living at Home:
Why did you choose to live at home during college?
A) I knew that moving home would not only help me but it would allow me to help my mom take care of my nephew.
B) I chose to live at home mainly because my mother is home alone. Even though that is the main reason, I'm also relatively close enough to where I save more money driving down to school 3x a week than paying rent.
A) I don't have to pay rent and buying food isn't as expensive.
B) I don't have to pay rent, utilities, or for food. My mother actually prepares my meals and lunches daily.
What are 2 downsides of living at home?
A) I still have a curfew and have to still follow the house rules like I did in high school.
B) Because I am not living on my own, I don't get the support of roommates or YSA wards that have students going through the same experiences.
How would you describe your social life while living at home?
A) It is harder to have a social life because it is hard to make sure someone is home with my nephew.
B) I think that there are different levels of being social. Thankfully, I have a boyfriend who takes me our every time he has a chance and plans social things to do or else I would be staying home with my mother a lot more often. But I do feel like I see the same couple of people every week, so I don't get out and see other friends very often.
A) I still have a curfew and have to still follow the house rules like I did in high school.
B) Because I am not living on my own, I don't get the support of roommates or YSA wards that have students going through the same experiences.
How would you describe your social life while living at home?
A) It is harder to have a social life because it is hard to make sure someone is home with my nephew.
B) I think that there are different levels of being social. Thankfully, I have a boyfriend who takes me our every time he has a chance and plans social things to do or else I would be staying home with my mother a lot more often. But I do feel like I see the same couple of people every week, so I don't get out and see other friends very often.
What are 2 things you've learned from living at home during college?
A) I've learned how I have to adjust to being able to do things around other people's schedules and learned that sometimes things aren't as easy as they were before.
B) I've learned that I stink at communication with people I used to be close to. I am so busy and isolated that I have learned that I need to keep myself in the loop while juggling work and school. And that I love when my mother takes care of me.
For more college advice and tips, check out my Pinterest.
A) I've learned how I have to adjust to being able to do things around other people's schedules and learned that sometimes things aren't as easy as they were before.
B) I've learned that I stink at communication with people I used to be close to. I am so busy and isolated that I have learned that I need to keep myself in the loop while juggling work and school. And that I love when my mother takes care of me.
For more college advice and tips, check out my Pinterest.
What are YOUR thoughts? Comment Below!
Monday, March 21, 2016
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Who am I
Hi, I'm Lauren.
College is time of discovery. It is a period of time dedicated to improving oneself through education, health, and lifestyle. This school year I've taken improving my health more seriously and have discovered that many others are on this journey. So...Embracing Change in College was born.
College is a time of change. Classes change every semester, roommates changed by the semester or year, relationships with friends and family change, and each individual can change. Not all changes are good but they give each of us an opportunity to change our outlook on the situation or life. This school I've been improving my positive outlook when facing changes or challenges.
The journey to be a healthier college student has not been a easy or quick change but I know that improving my health and setting healthy habits now will positively impact my future. I also know that I am not on this journey alone; I have a good support system and continue to find more.
For each person who has helped, advice, and motivated me on my journey, I thank you and I hope that through this blog I can help others who are on their own fitness journey.
Thank you to all current readers and welcome to all new readers.
Monday, March 7, 2016
Monday, February 29, 2016
Thursday, February 25, 2016
11 Snacks for School & Home
Life in college is crazy. The days are often spent trying to balance classes, studying, working, and catching up with friends. Finding time to be healthy in college also takes some balance and patience.
One great way to balance healthy eating with college is choosing healthy snacks. Snacking throughout the day is important to keep your metabolism running. But finding healthy snacks for school and home can be challenging.
Here are some of my snack recommendations:
Snacks for School:
- Hard Boiled Eggs
- Almonds & Craisins
- String Cheese & Grapes
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Unsalted, No-Butter Popcorn
- Yogurt & Granola
- Trail Mix
- Dried Fruit
- Apples
- Turkey Jerky
- Nuts
Snacks for Home:
- Banana & Peanut Butter Bites
- Celery with Peanut Butter
- Cucumber & Humus
- Oatmeal & Fruit
- Rice cake with Peanut Butter
- Baby Carrots & Low-Fat Ranch
- Homemade Popsicle and Smoothies
- Banana Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Bites
- Banana & Peanut Butter "Sushi"
- Frozen Yogurt covered Fruit
- Lunch meat & Cream Cheese Roll Ups
For more ideas and recipes check out my Pinterest.
What are YOUR favorite snacks? Comment Below!
Monday, February 22, 2016
Thursday, February 18, 2016
How to Study Better
It is no secret that there are many differences between high school and college. College students have very different living arrangements, social lives, school/work schedules, and meals compared to most high school students.
One difference between high school and college are the tests & studying for them. In high school, many tests could be passed with a brief read-through of the notes the night before or the morning of. In college, many tests could be passed with a long, tiring cramming of notes the week before or pulling an all-nighter the night of. Learning that difference can be a hard lesson to learn.
There are millions of results when googling "college studying tips" that include articles, opinions, research, and info-graphics. All this information can be overwhelming for any college student searching for a new studying technique so it's crucial to remember that every college student is different. Every college student will have a different experience with studying for exams; take note on what works for you and what doesn't.
Here's college student tested tips or techniques on getting better test scores:
Megan June reveals of some of her studying secrets:
Samantha shares her insights on studying:
Rachel defines some DON'Ts on studying:
For more ideas & tips check out my Pinterest.
One difference between high school and college are the tests & studying for them. In high school, many tests could be passed with a brief read-through of the notes the night before or the morning of. In college, many tests could be passed with a long, tiring cramming of notes the week before or pulling an all-nighter the night of. Learning that difference can be a hard lesson to learn.
There are millions of results when googling "college studying tips" that include articles, opinions, research, and info-graphics. All this information can be overwhelming for any college student searching for a new studying technique so it's crucial to remember that every college student is different. Every college student will have a different experience with studying for exams; take note on what works for you and what doesn't.
Here's college student tested tips or techniques on getting better test scores:
Megan June reveals of some of her studying secrets:
- Be organized
- Have goals
- Go to tutoring or office hours
- Study every day
- Rewrite your notes
- Make flashcards
- Know what to do before/after class
- Turn off the distractions
- Take breaks
- Study groups
- Make a list of questions.
Samantha shares her insights on studying:
- Actually pay attention in class.
- Take good notes
- Read over your notes daily.
- Make note cards
- Study hard
- Don't be afraid to use the internet
- Get some rest
- Get up early to review
- Go to class with confidence
Rachel defines some DON'Ts on studying:
- Don't save it until the last minute
- Don't be cluttered with distractions.
- Don't avoid sleep.
- Don't underestimate the time you should set aside to study.
- Don't underestimate all the material that you will need.
- Don't only cram in sutdying in between all of your other stuff.
- Don't look at something once and move on.
- Don't study or memeoriaze material without understanding it.
- When studying with someone else. Don't move on if you still don't get it.
- Don't be scared to go to office hours
For more ideas & tips check out my Pinterest.
What are YOUR studying tips? Comment Below!
Monday, February 15, 2016
Thursday, February 11, 2016
Love Yourself
In college, your adventures will have you surrounded by different kinds of people: roommates, classmates, friends, neighbors, significant others, etc. These people can have a different influential power on your college experience whether it be for a class, a semester, a year, or your whole experience. But there is one more crucial person that can influence your college experience...
You.
College is a time of learning. A time to learn about your future career, surviving on your own, dating, and to learn about you. You can also learn about depression, stress, anxiety, and the commonality of social comparison. College is real, the lessons you learn are real, and the greatness in you is real.
Valentine's Day is often the celebration between significant others to express their love, gratitude, and affection towards one another. For some singles students it is a dreaded holiday with a thin silver lining -- discounted chocolate on the 15th. For some couples it is difficult to plan or buy something special for their 'valentine.'
This Valentine's Day, I challenge each reader (single & taken) to celebrate this day by loving yourself more.
Loving, accepting yourself is a crucial when surrounded by so many people. When you love yourself and understand your greatness, they will be affected social comparison less and able to distress quicker. Loving yourself won't make you perfect or invincible, but it will help each of you deal with the many lessons of college.
I'm not alone in this challenge. Dress Barn's new sale is titled, "Me, my Valentine" with the hashtag #labelmeconfident and Buzzfeed has outlined a 12-day love yourself challenge.
Here are some ways to celebrate you:
- Create a list of all the things that you do well.
- Don't be sorry for what you love. Love it and love it loud!
- Smile & laugh like you mean it.
- Surround yourself with people who'll remind you of who you are and how great you are.
- Replace your negative go-to words with positives ones.
- Write yourself a love letter.
- Pamper yourself.
- Call a friend when times get tough.
- Do something that makes you happy.
- Don't compared yourself to others.
- Take a break from technology.
- Create a reward/punishment system when you are mean to yourself.
- Wear something that makes you feel great inside & out.
- Eat something wonderful & savor each bite.
- Take time for yourself.
Check out my Pinterest for more ideas.
Accept the challenge and celebrate YOU this Valentine's day.
Monday, February 8, 2016
Thursday, February 4, 2016
Make Time to Laugh
Life as a college student is full stress. Whether it be from the endless stacks of homework, long hours of work, drama with roommates or significant others, or trying to manage all aspects on our lives.
Stress is such a common thing among students and it can have short-term and long-term effects on our bodies. Instead of lecturing about stress and the dangers of stress; I'm going to help relieve some stress...through laughter.
Here are some videos & pictures that help me smile and laugh:
Studio C : Top Soccer Shootout Ever with Scott Sterling
SNL : Star Wars Undercover Boss
Lip Sync Battle : Tatum Take-Over
Hannah and Carli : Wherefore Art Thou, Zefron
Dustin & Geneviere : Adele Hello Parody
BuzzFeed : If Guy Best Friends Acted Like Girl Best Friends
What makes you laugh? Comment Below!
Monday, February 1, 2016
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Beauty Sleep
Sleep seems to be a mythical concept for college students. Students may fill their time with work, late night homework sessions, Netflix marathons, parties, or participating in school events. There are number of things calling our attention and time; social life, good grades, our health and even sleep.
Googling "college sleeping tips" will pull up missions of results from quotes, infographics, Pins, articles, and research. With all that information condemning all-nighters, midnight McDonald's runs, or running off coffee it can be a little discouraging. But don't fret, you are not alone. We are all struggling with getting enough sleep. Me included.
College is full of opportunities for learning no matter the situation. Learning to deal with roommates, group assignments, how to cook semi-healthy, how not to gain or lose the freshman fifteen, how to manage your time, and and learning to get enough sleep.
Here's college tested tips on bettering your sleep:
CampusMindWorks recommends a couple of tips to sleep better.
Cosmopolitan gives advice on beautifying your body while you sleep.
Googling "college sleeping tips" will pull up missions of results from quotes, infographics, Pins, articles, and research. With all that information condemning all-nighters, midnight McDonald's runs, or running off coffee it can be a little discouraging. But don't fret, you are not alone. We are all struggling with getting enough sleep. Me included.
College is full of opportunities for learning no matter the situation. Learning to deal with roommates, group assignments, how to cook semi-healthy, how not to gain or lose the freshman fifteen, how to manage your time, and and learning to get enough sleep.
Here's college tested tips on bettering your sleep:
Tips on Sleep
CampusMindWorks recommends a couple of tips to sleep better.
- Put down all technology 30 minutes before bed.
- No caffeine after 3 pm.
Cosmopolitan gives advice on beautifying your body while you sleep.
- Moisturize your face and lips every night.
- Change and wash your pillowcases often.
- Go to bed with a clean face.
Inc.edu suggests some ways to get better zzz's.
- Keep a journal by your bed to write down midnight thoughts.
- Set sleep into your priorities.
Ultralinx points out simple changes that will better your sleep.
- Go to bed around the same time each night.
- Use the bed only for sleep.
- Keep the lights lowly lit in your bedroom.
For more ideas, tips, and articles check out my Pinterest.
Have any other sleeping tips? Comment Below!
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Simplify Your Body
The human body is a complex organism. We have 206 bones. It takes 17 muscles to smile compared to the 43 to frown. We have about 100 billion neurons in our brains. The largest organ in the human body is the skin. The human body is complicated and complex.
Becoming healthier shouldn't be.
Three weeks ago, we rang in a new year along with resolutions to accomplish. Common resolutions tend to be focused on becoming healthier, happier, or wealthier. New year resolutions trends show about 8% of individuals achieve their resolutions and 64% maintain their resolution for six months. Maybe it is time for me to join to the ranks.
My resolutions: Exercise 2-4x a week, Snack Healthier, and Be Happy.
My first week was great; I exercised three times, ate little to no sweets, and smile/laughed often. Then I went back to college and life got crazy. I discovered if I truly wanted to be healthier I needed pace myself and start simple.
Here's some tips to simplifying your exercising and eating habits:
Find healthy alternatives than the cookies and chips with SkinnyMs.' clean eating snacks. Snacks include:
Re-hydrate and reap the many benefits with water:
Becoming healthier shouldn't be.
Three weeks ago, we rang in a new year along with resolutions to accomplish. Common resolutions tend to be focused on becoming healthier, happier, or wealthier. New year resolutions trends show about 8% of individuals achieve their resolutions and 64% maintain their resolution for six months. Maybe it is time for me to join to the ranks.
My resolutions: Exercise 2-4x a week, Snack Healthier, and Be Happy.
My first week was great; I exercised three times, ate little to no sweets, and smile/laughed often. Then I went back to college and life got crazy. I discovered if I truly wanted to be healthier I needed pace myself and start simple.
Here's some tips to simplifying your exercising and eating habits:
Simple Exercise Habits
Recommit to yourself and to a better lifestyle with Katie McLaughlin's five tips:- Start Easy
- Partner Up
- Dress the Part
- Try Something New
- Reward Yourself for Showing Up
Create and follow a plan with Kimberly Grabinski 's monthly exercise plan for each skill type. Exercises include:
- Jumping Jack
- Crunches
- Push Ups
- Plank
- Squats
- Calf Raises
- Walking
For more ideas check out my Pinterest Board.
Simple Food Habits
Find healthy alternatives than the cookies and chips with SkinnyMs.' clean eating snacks. Snacks include:
- Greek Yogurt
- Dried Fruit
- Peanut Butter
- *Homemade* Kale Chips
- Hummus
- *Homemade* Sweet Potatoes Fries
Re-hydrate and reap the many benefits with water:
- Stronger Hair & Nails
- Healthy Scalp
- Weight Loss
- Smooth Skin &* Clearer Acne
- Bright, Clear Eyes.
For more ideas, check out my Pinterest Board.
What are your resolutions? How are you accomplishing them?
Comment below!!
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Disappointment Allows Growth
Southern Utah University's Greek community conducted their semi-annual Rush Week this week, January 11-15, 2016.
There are four active Greek organizations; Alpha Phi (sorority), Delta Psi Omega (sorority), Sigma Chi (fraternity), and Chi Phi (fraternity). SUU's Greek life allows students various leadership opportunities, service in their communities, fundraising for charities, and belonging to something bigger than themselves.
Sorority Ever After defines 'rush week' is a process of open and invited events for potential new members and the organization to mutually select new members.
For the first half of this week I had the opportunity to rush Alpha Phi. I learned a lot about myself, the members of Alpha Phi and what Alpha Phi stands for as an international Greek organization.
- There is no need to compare myself with others. We each are beautiful, quirky, and shouldn't be ashamed to show that to others.
- Being part of a sorority is more than a being in the social upper-class. It is a opportunity for personal growth, the building of skills, and bettering the community.
- Every sister in Alpha Phi is kind, unique, and an example of their six values.
- A sorority can become a home away from home and provide individuals with the support and encouragement they need during college.
- Potential members can be influenced by the sorority's examples and values, even if they don't get to join that rush week.
The waves of disappointment crashed various times during the day, a lot harder than I anticipated. Subconsciously I had grown more fond of the idea of being part of Alpha Phi, having that large support group, and expanding my experiences in leadership and service.
Tiny Buddha author, Raeeka writes how disappointment can be one of the most "uncomfortable feelings" and some 4 Steps to Deal with Disappointment.
- Let it out -- Don't bottle up your confusing emotions because what you are feeling is okay. You are allowed to experience those emotions.
- Get some perspective -- Give the situation time to relax without pushing yourself.
- Know your heart -- Don't forget about your values and make the choice on how you'll react. You have the power to over disappointment.
- Practice Acceptance -- Understand that life will always have disappointments while still noticing the good things in life.
As for me, the waves of disappointment will probably continue to crash for the remainder of the week and into next week. I will allow myself to be disappointed, to be hurt, to grieve, and to cry. Then I will allow myself to be happy, to be kind, and to try again.
The opportunity to rush Alpha Phi helped me acknowledge my confidence within, embrace the uniqueness of me, meet sweet people, and support the expression of my values in my daily actions. So while I will be sad, it will still be a great day.
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