1. Include as many pictures of your friends and family as humanly possible
You can glance over at an old memory of you as a toddler with your big brother or little sister, can discuss your awkward middle-school years with new friends, or even remember a loved one who you may have lost.
2. Make memories in it
Occasionally invite your friends over, eat popcorn, and watch horror movies until you finally fall asleep even though you have an 8AM the next morning. It’s these moments that you will remember in the future, not the score you received on a paper. While your education is incredibly important, it’s important to let yourself enjoy life a bit too.
3. Fluffy pillows and cozy blankets are a must
There is nothing better than cozying up after a harsh day with the softest blanket you own, and taking a nap.
4. Have one thing that reminds you of your childhood
I have a couple dozen Disney movies to remind myself that it’s OK to be a kid every now and again. Keep something that reminds you of your childhood: an old gaming system, a favorite book, a stuffed animal, whatever reminds you that it’s OK to be vulnerable and feel lost.
5. Have something to take care of (plant, fish, etc.)
Keep yourself responsible for something other than yourself. Taking care of something that depends on you can be incredibly rewarding.
6. Always have your favorite snacks on hand
Sometimes, you just need to stop eating brown rice and chicken and dig into a bag of Cheetos or have a scoop of Ben and Jerry’s.
7. Paint and hang a picture yourself
Especially if you are not artistic, creating something and displaying it in your apartment can be quite the accomplishment! Whether you think it is “good” or not, the fact that you completed it is incredibly rewarding.
8. Create a board of quotes/people that inspire you
Sometimes we need to be reminded what we are working toward. Keep a board of what inspires you to keep yourself pushing forward when life gets tough.
9. Have a calendar with your family and friend’s birthdays so you always feel connected
Everyone LOVES when you remember their birthday without the help of Facebook. Call your grandfather, brother, cousin, aunt, mother, friend, or anyone close to you on their birthday. You’ll enjoy the chance to connect with them and they will feel appreciated that you took the time out of your busy schedule to call. It’s a win-win.
10. Play cheesy, ridiculous, music to which you know every lyric, and play it LOUDLY
Don’t be ashamed of the music you enjoy and consider your “jam”. Dance crazily in your room as if you were 12, and sing along to the cheesy lyrics we all secretly love.
Image courtesy of Kelsey Henjes