I have never been one to stick to new year’s resolutions, as I believe they are not realistic with the person you grow to be throughout the year. I have found it more fulfilling to make a list of things I need to improve going forward and apply it every month. It is a great reminder to implement certain habits or advice. Since it is the end of the month, I am reflecting on habits and discoveries I have made this month that have made me feel better, physically and mentally.
1. Working on a diet that works best for me
I have had stomach issues since I was a baby and they have followed me into adulthood. I have restrictions in place so I do not end up getting sick, as my stomach cannot handle certain foods based on their acidity, grease, and spice. The problem is that I like all these types of foods. When I started to cook for myself last semester in my first college apartment, I shrugged off the fact that I could not handle these types of foods and ate them anyway, resulting in me having a stomach ache and not feeling energized. I have been working to improve my gut microbiome by introducing more vegetables and protein. To my dismay, I have toned down the seasoning and coffee, switching to fresh herbs and tea for flavor and caffeine. So far, I have had less stomach issues and a boost in energy.
2. Being realistic with my timeline
This semester started out difficult between juggling work, research, clubs, volunteering, classes, and my MCAT prep. There is always so much to do in 24 hours and it started to get to me early in the semester. After talking to my dad, he gave me the advice he has been giving me since I was little, but I appreciate it so much more now. “Just put one foot in front of the other, do the best you can,” he says.
I would overwhelm myself with how much I had on my agenda. I was putting events and due dates in my planner instead of tracking everything for every day of the week. I have started to shape my planner for the day in the morning based on how I feel. I feel less weight on my shoulders using this strategy. Pushing myself when I am not in a good mental state leads to more mistakes and burnout for me. I just needed to follow this advice for a calmer, more productive version of myself.
3. Saying no is important to reach goals
I am a major advocate for working hard and playing hard, but as previously discussed, sticking to a realistic timeline is important. I am not suggesting staying your room doing homework constantly, as I usually plan something twice a week with friends to prevent burnout. If you constantly say yes to hanging out with friends, but are stressed about that upcoming exam or assignment, it may not be in your best interest. I started this as a rule for myself when I started MCAT prep and expected to have FOMO whenever I could not hang out with my friends. Surprisingly, I felt better afterward because I had the stress off my shoulders and could actually put in quality work. I also make it a point to see my friends often so I never have a feeling of FOMO.
4. My low maintenance friendships will last
Over winter break, I saw my hometown friends almost every day, and everything was exactly how it used to be despite not seeing them in a couple of months. There are six friends in our group that we have had since freshman year of high school, all living in different cities. When we get together, I feel the same closeness and comfort I have had during all our years of friendship. We all live our own lives as adults and are busy. We are not constantly in each other’s business, do not need to have a phone call every day to feel secure in our friendship, and do not get mad at each other for taking rain checks or having to make plans first. We do not have the sense of growing apart and still consider each other best friends without seeing each other all the time. I know now that these friendships are the most mature and durable.
These are the most important lessons I have learned so far this year and hope I can share more soon! I cannot wait to reflect in December to see how far I have come.