listen to yourself

The last few days I've made quite the realization. Listening to yourself—specifically needs—is important. I know that I do best around people, but alas I secluded myself and didn't accomplish the goals I needed to. Working around and with other people can be really important for an extrovert. And by listening to yourself, you can accomplish goals and relieve stress. They all work together.

Not Sleeping is my Achilles Heal

During my time in college I figured out that my biggest roadblock to success was being stressed out— which was amplified by exhaustion. When I understood that was my problem, I took some measures to change my lifestyle to give myself a better chance for success. One of my biggest problems was staying up too late... it caused me to be physically and emotionally drained. The aftershock of these late nights affected me for a couple days after.

So going into senior or junior year I gave myself a bedtime— 11:30-12:00, which I maintained with a few exception on really big deadlines. Having a designated time to stop helped me procrastinate less and work more efficiently. It also helped me deal with the stresses of classes and made me much happier in the long run. I have learned what my breaking point is and what my limitations are.

hug someone today

This time last year, I was reading one of those cheesy post-breakup "self help" books that gave me advice to help stave off loneliness. It told me to just hug as many people as I possibly could; friends, coworkers, and people that I meet. At the time I was open to just about anything so I went for it and it actually really helped. So to those of you who are single & lonely, just lonely, are having a difficult time, or just want some love: hug someone today. Hug a lot of people today. Maybe hug that one  friend or acquaintance that looks like they just need it. 

treat yourself

one thing that I like to do each week is treat myself to a mini spa day. It's usually more like a spa hour, but during that time I just pamper myself, relax and put my worries aside. For me this helps to relieve stress and gather my thoughts for the rest of the day. I often do a coffee+brown sugar mask because it's gentle enough on my sensitive skin and I can make it with just a few things I already have in my apartment. Below are directions for how I make my mask. Give it a try and let me know what you think.