6 months of e-decluttering

Starting today, I will be on a personal project to remove my presence in all personal social media platforms – except for this as it is mainly for documenting my journey in understanding how it feels like to be detached from seeing the world in someone else’s lenses thus allowing me to be more mindful of my own environment and blessings I already have. The voices outside my head are getting louder and louder that I knew I had to do something to hear myself much clearly.

Every morning the first thing I do is shut off my alarm and then look at Instagram, mostly because I love images that either involve travelling or lifestyle. Irony is I knew that habit was not something I wanted to be included in my long-term lifestyle. It just does not bring the best out of me. Facebook is the same when I’m commuting or having lunch by myself. I used to love to people-watch and I still do, I just forget because I’m slowly embarking on the bandwagon or at least the norm of using my phone to “relax”.

It’s not healthy.. for me. I am learning something and definitely staying updated with current events in addition to the lives of my friends. When contemplating about it though, I have enough in front of me, in the present. I forget to look at what I have and simply take advantage of what’s of reach – my family, my books, and my city.

I’ll be doing regular reflections to see the progression of my perspectives. Hop on this chapter with me? 🙂

Relativity of Courage

We are taught at a very young age, by society and by most media platforms, to challenge ourselves all the time.. to be able to look beyond our fears and weaknesses and to just keep moving forward no matter what happens.

This does not turn out well for everybody. One of which is myself. The ideal journey is I will keep fighting until I get to achieve my greatest dreams. Here’s the catch: I don’t know what my dream is just yet. If you do, please enlighten me with some advice. If you don’t, welcome to reality! This is a common challenge for most people and we become blinded because we are too focused to persevere and work hard that we lose focus of what’s important: our identity and our values. Working hard towards a goal is AMAZING but we must fully be involved in the process and the purpose of the goal.

Just recently, I turned down an amazing opportunity. I know that I’ve been worn out and taking on another responsibility at this phase of my life will only make things worse than it already is, in terms of finding the right balance. When I made the decision, I assured myself that there will be no turning back on any “what if’s” because it’s not a healthy habit. It was a hard for me because I am such a YES! person but I know that it is time to take the backseat and let life drive first. It’s been an exhausting ride and I am reaching nowhere.

Courage is not just all about walking towards the edge of life rather it can also mean humbling oneself and knowing one’s limitations. 

My definition of this concept have changed over time. I’m not telling you to change yours but to be open to what I have to got to share. I have learned that courage can also mean stepping back to basics to absorb everything that has happened and to assess who I am and why I do what I do. We say that the easy part is to relax and the challenge is to accept an opportunity; however, I see it differently. I feel that it is so much easier to go with saying yes to every single chance to prove myself and definitely much more difficult to sit back and hear my inner voice. This is a beautiful post by Jamie Varon on ThoughtCatalog about vulnerability and genuinely living your life. 

I was always a flexible person but I have realized that I needed to become more firm with my decisions. This world is filled with things that we can consume, physically, mentally, and emotionally but we must know how to balance and criticize each priority to make sure that it aligns to our values because if not.. then what’s the point of exerting 100000% effort and putting in so much time if the end result is emptiness?

Courage is relative to each person’s experience, depending on their comfort zones and ability to express their passions.

I am an ambivert but leaning towards an introvert, which means that I love having friends and positive energy around me but then, I can only give so much after taking in enough to sustain my enthusiasm for the day. For the past 3 years, I have exhausted every inch of my drive in pursuit of creating an impact to my environment, most especially to people around me. I am not saying that I quit rather, I have come to a point where my comfort zone has been expanded to its largest capability.. where I’m reaching the deadly zone of pushing myself too hard and setting too high standards.

My passion is to help others excel. Like how my brother has kept reminding me, I have done so much and enough at the moment. He knows my desire to bring out the best out of every person I meet but I can only do so much when I myself have not reached the peak of my maturity (in personal growth and experience).

It’s time to look at a different perspective and seek the foundation of my identity again.
It’s time to declutter my mind and find the right balance.
It’s time to explore on my truest personal passions that will equip me to emotionally and mentally take on the world to fulfill my greater purpose.

After all, “in this life, we must find something to live for cause when darkness comes a calling, we go back to where we were before.. cause this life is as fragile as a dream, nothing’s ever really as it seems.”

This does not mean that we have to lay down our dreams for ourselves. Not at all. I am a strong believer of pursuits of happiness. My point is that how will we ever achieve those dreams whether to change the world, end poverty, become a professional athlete, be a world traveler, or even lead a country if we ourselves haven’t understood what makes us unique individuals. It’s a tough journey but definitely a worthwhile one, follow your inner voice and never regret. Please be kind to yourself. 

Back Against the Wall

I am a believer of something bigger than who I am. I know that everything happens for a reason, how amazing or painful the experience is.

In my life, I have been able to achieve a lot of things but nothing really indicates that I was chosen out of a crowd and it’s maybe because I was very different. The way I perceive things and even express myself. It’s hard to not feel a sense of belongingness.. no matter how much I try. The only situations that made me feel that I was becoming myself was through swimming and when I am alone, typing these words.

Ever since I was a child, I had a feeling that I was meant for something great, not to be famous or popular but rather destined to find a way to change this world and its perception towards people who are experiencing some difficulties in trying to “fit in”. People acknowledge my amazing personality but does not necessarily see me as someone deserving of the best and not just the better.

I am kind, nice, friendly, pleasant, cheerful, and helpful but how does these attributes tell everyone that I, too, can get mad, hurt, determined, moody, and sad. The judgements are piling up and it’s eating me up because then, people expect me to always be the person who helps them even if it’s out of context. I also feel pain and not just happiness. But here’s the thing: I really want to help.. but I don’t want to feel powerless.. and that’s what I am feeling every time people who did not use to value me (after seeing my achievements) try to get as much rewards from being my friend. Trust me, it’s not hard to become my friend. It hurts to be used. Moreover, it hurts that I know what they are doing but I cannot do anything because I want to help.

What is amazing though is that these things make me stronger.. but at the same time, challenges me to still keep my values while improving the skills that will get me that voice. It’s all about the communication. I lack that, ever since I was a child, it was difficult to express what I felt whether it be a happy or sad encounter. I end up just silencing myself because no one will listen to me anyway. And there.. I learned how to listen and hear what my environment had to say.

I have reached to a point where I know that if I didn’t challenge myself, I will be left behind. I am not normal but who says what is normal and what is not. We are all made as humans and what makes us special are our unique attributes.

These are all thoughts that challenge my faith and values. I always try to wipe my tears away because I know that it’s not worth crying on. I know that someday somehow, God will be able to show my the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s a long way from now but it will come, just have faith.

The little girl inside me who was so innocent and treated every single person as someone she trusts is slowly fading away. The mad world is slowly eating me up. The voices outside is slowly taking over my inner voice. The big smile that I have always carried with me and tried to hold is slowly getting crooked. My heart is cringing for the very reason that I cannot seem to see myself being understood by the world.

My back is against the wall. What can I do.

Say what? Believe. Believe that there is a reason why you are heartbroken that you yourself was unable to love the true you: a gentle and fragile lady with a soft heart towards the smallest things. I acknowledge this but is this my final destination? To become a nice person that everyone “appreciates”. It hurts, physically, mentally, and emotionally.. that perseverance and hard work does not easily pay off.. that you will have to tell other people what you have done before you are appreciated. This breaks my heart.

I told you I’m different. So different, can you understand now? (maybe not)

And that is why, I always remind myself to just TRUST in the Supreme Being that It will show me what is deserving of me. I must have been avoiding it because I was too focused on getting what I want and not what I need. It’s a challenging journey. What my parents tell me is to just persevere and thrive in what I am doing right now and everything (somehow, some way) will fall into place.. eventually. It’s a tough ride but I will push myself away from the wall and take a stand for what I stand for: a unique individual.. nothing more, nothing less.

Why you gotta be so rude?

I have always wondered what passion is supposed to feel like? When you want to pursue something, is it supposed to normally feel uncertain and awkward before you step into it? Or is it supposed to feel so exciting that the nervousness is just an added spice to balance the state of being so high up?

I always seek adventures and opportunities that will bring new perspective into my life. The desire to feel like the world wants me in it pushes me to actually run after them. But it’s hard, it hurts.. and that’s how it should feel.. for now. Why does love have to be so rude? Why does it attract you then leaves you hanging later on?

The biggest challenge is that this person that I’m competing is not anyone but myself. I just recently found out about this amazing Facebook page called berlin-artparasites and the posts here are so mind-blowing because you will realize how true it is but at the same time, how hidden it is in our society. This society has its own standards of excellence and we follow it.. forgetting the fact that we are our own standards of excellence. I have been carrying such weight of trying to understand what is right and what is wrong without considering what my heart aches for or what my values stand for.

It is all so intricate, life. Every detail of it and that’s how meticulous I am. Then again, something hit me. Why contemplate on things that do not need any contemplation? Why complicate things when it’s already simple? Why try to control things that are not meant to be controlled? Three reasons why:

As a human being, I want to adapt to belong.

I observe people to be able to adapt. I thought that being flexible is an excellent characteristic to possess but unfortunately, it is not for most of the time. It’s good to understand what’s happening around you and to be able to see what is moral in their own terms and what is considered a taboo; however, the more abstract things like our values must stay intact. This is where our beliefs are shaken and tested, our personalities questioned and possibly misunderstood by some people. Our experiences shape our current identities but at the same time, if we are too flexible then it will be difficult to actually acknowledge who we really are. (our true strengths and weaknesses, our personality and characteristics.. which is which)

Solution: Know yourself. Do self-assessments at least twice a year to be more clear on who you truly are and what you value the most.

As a human being, I want to understand to be understood.

There are times that I had to be certain of the outcome but then I realized that I cannot simply control everything. It was this notion that I always had the power to change and bring impact to my surrounding. I can, you can, and we all can; however, there are certain limitations that only we would know for ourselves. For example, I always try to analyze my surrounding and act upon what is expected. This can be good in a professional setting but when it generally comes to life, it can be a trick. It now becomes a challenge to ask you how much of my life truly represents who I am.

Solution: Understand yourself first then everything else will fall into place.. eventually. Be patient and open to new experiences. You will be misunderstood and that is normal, you cannot please everyone nor can you expect them to understand when you explain your circumstances to them. Love YOU!

……..

Life is not rude, it never was and never will be. I was the one who was making it seem rude. Life is beautiful and just like us, without the imperfections, it will not blossom into something worth fighting for.

Perseverance

I believe that everything happens for a reason but how does that work when I also believe that in order to get to my desired destiny, I have to work as hard as I could. In every commitment I get involved in, I put in my 1000000%. What role does fate play in that belief? It can be quite complicated but for the past few conversations and small encounters with life that I have had, I was able to develop my own understanding.

I was talking with my grandfather yesterday and even though he repeats his stories at least 5 times (either because he was really happy to share it or to emphasize on it), he was able to stress how life happens as it is. We have no absolute control over what will and will not happen nor can we play with the relativity of time. He repeated how he saw his ancestors were taken away one by one and now, he knows that he is next but it does not stop him from living his life. I love him so much and am always amazed with the enthusiasm and perseverance he upholds in his daily life no matter what his past dictates. It was a rough ride for him to get where he is right now but he did not show how he was a prisoner of what had happened rather rather he represented the battles he have fought by becoming a dignified man of his own values. It was an inspiration to see and witness! 🙂

Life creates so much obstacles for us to surpass but aren’t those blessings in disguise? I had a class discussion where we were asked whether hard work can get us ahead in life. Of course, we had different perspectives.

• Yes, there are endless possibilities, you just have to keep moving forward
• It depends. The obstacles are different for everyone. Some were privileged to receive more than what they deserve. That’s life, it still has to go on.
• No, this world is such a cruel place where there is no equity, whatsoever.

These were not exact answers but rather a summary of what was discussed. What can I say? In my opinion, the hurdles are there way before due to history and these are not something that we can just remove overnight. However, there are ways and that if I want to achieve something, I will keep working hard. It’s true, sometimes. Everyone is entitled to have a good life.

what can be our worst enemies? timing and luck.

Patience is good because once our ambitions take over our lives, then we lose track in who we really are: human beings. I learned this the hard way but opportunities are worthless unless we were able to apply what we have learned in our very own lives. I used to grab every single opportunity that passes me by and it was fun until I felt really overwhelmed with all the information I was trying to understand to be able to hold true in my every day challenges. We all have different paces. My reflective trait made it harder for me transition to reality. I knew that I will be more successful if I had the time to absorb what was thrown at me, especially if it was something new. I learned to understand the difference between what I wanted and what I needed. It was a struggle that made me stronger and let me become the person I am today and to become tomorrow.

Luck is tricky. My opinion? It’s all about the positive vibes and when do I experience these? I believe that one’s peace of mind comes from having to balance humility with confidence. Easier said than done but totally possible. When life throw rocks at you, build a castle, remember?? Stay true to who you are. Collect your thoughts and have a pro-active response in fighting your battles. Things may not always go as planned but keep moving forward and stay optimistic. Every little thing will be alright. 

If you have IG, you have to follow @thegoodquote. They’re so amazingggg! My fave as of the moment: “Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” ❤

With that being said, I want to update you with my adventures!! I just got accepted in our school’s Summer Study Abroad program. See you soon, Germany!!

Conflicting Philosophies

Is it just me or there is so much to love in this world and yet, there are so much rules that limit us to attain them.

Being the complex person that I am, I just had to post this before I sleep or I might dream about it or even worse, keep tossing and turning on my bed.. not being able to sleep at all. Why do we have to choose between two extremes of needing and wanting, be accepted or having to fight, yourself of your community, passion or that official entitlement, your values or theirs? Why can’t we settle for something in the middle?

You can’t.
Choose one or lose both (that’s what they say.)
You just can’t.

My brother was just amazing. He told me this and it blew my mind. There are no right and wrong decision, there is only the right and good choices that you make. The bad choices.. they are just bad and you’ll know it when you sense it. He is right.

The other thought has always been lingering in my mind and I can’t seem to find an answer. I was with my dad last time debating on the topic of doing what you love and loving what you do. It has been in my culture to be extremely patient when it comes to the sufferings and sacrifices we had to make in order for the right time to come for our hard work to be paid off. However, I have witnessed a different approach in the western culture where I was exposed to the philosophy of doing what you love so you will be more sustainable in what you’re doing because it is what you considered as what you loved.

How about self-efficacy?
How about your potential to succeed in it?

If you don’t know, how will anyone else provide you the answer. My dad made sure that my mind was clear before I went to sleep. He told me that life isn’t certain and you will not be able to depict the future. I had to do my best in what was given to me and through the prayers I will have, everything will eventually fall into place. He emphasized on living in the present and trusting whatever has to happen will happen for a reason. It can be that most of my generation (being raised with technology) was used to immediate gratification. It can be a personality trait already or just a characteristic but for now, I want to train myself to be more patient considering how patient I already am.

If I have things that I love, I can still do them. Time cannot stop me from that. It shouldn’t.. if I really said that I loved what I love. It should not be complicated, my dad says. It’s true. Priorities have to be set straight and so far in life, I believe that in order to find success and happiness, I must do the things that I am passionate for while still being intact with my society/community.

We are after-all, still humans. We are social beings.

Looking Back & Moving Forward

I can’t believe it’s already 2015!!!

Then again, I had a great ending on my 2014 doing karaoke all night on New Year’s Eve with the family and well, accidentally missing the countdown. It was so sad and hilarious at the same time because we have been singing to pass time to wait for the countdown. I guess we had too much much and as I reflected on it, I realized that it was kind of good that I missed it because then, the transitioning to 2015 will be smoother.

Why? Beside the fact that we were all genuinely happy with where we are and what we were doing without caring what the world was thinking, it was more of seeing the whole concept of a new year as a societal obligation. I always thought that New Years was the only event where big changes are seen as more normal but that is not true. Every day must be a new year. What makes New Year special is our opportunity to stop and reflect on what has happened the past year, appreciate the good things, and learn from the bad. Other than that, we must always seek good changes everyday since it takes time to get to that destination we have been hoping to arrive to.

After all the terrible and traumatic occurrences that our world has experienced, we must not lose hope. The problems we have encountered may be reminder that we have to work as a team and not for ourselves. As for calamities, it’s time to trust that everything happens for a reason. I definitely believe that it’s easier said than done but guess what? life must go on. I have been in a roller coaster this year but looking back at it, I wouldn’t be who I am today without those challenges.

Looking back, I have gathered 5 biggest realizations:

Never settle, have standards
Satisfaction must come from within
Be thoughtful, to care for something/someone important is never a weakness
Be as perfect as you can be, without any external influences
Knowing and loving who you are are prerequisites to being known and loved by others

I know that some of these can and will be misunderstood because of the variety of perspectives we all possess. I have written them without any explanations in order for you to reflect on them with your own vantage point. At the end of the day, what makes each one of us special and unique are our thoughts and ideas. Moving forward with my life this year, I wanted to take more risks and listen to my inner voice. It will definitely be a challenge but it will be a challenge that I want to venture on.

Travel
How? I am studying my hardest in order to get competitive grades because it will give me an edge in getting a once-in-a-lifetime experience and work harder to be financially ready for the expenses I will have to spend on. I really want to go somewhere soon to increase my international awareness in developing a more diverse outlook in life and my career. More than that, I have always desired to immerse in a culture not familiar with mine.. don’t even get me started with food cuisines that I get to try.
My top five choices: Korea, Taiwan, London, LA, and Germany

Invest on my growth
How? I will invest more time and efforts in attending effective workshops/sessions/conferences/events that will open me to the world outside my own and which will push me outside my comfort zone.

Read more
How? Allot time to read at least One book/month or at least 10 books for the year.
(Any recommendations?)

Work towards my passion
How? I love people, swimming, music, and photography so let’s see how that goes for me.

These are all rough ideas and plans I have for this year. I believe that when it’s the right time and when I have done the best that I could, everything will fall in its right place. Buckle up, my friends! I want to invite you to take this journey with me because life, as we know it, has so much more in store for those who dream big. I hope you continue to be hopeful for today and more tomorrows and you will never give up on your dreams to make this world a better place. 🙂

Happy 2015, wordpressers!!

The Tunnel Vision

For the past 21 years, I have seen myself aiming to reach so many stars while struggling to look at all directions. Some people would say that they have admired how much passion I put in everything that I do but I have figured that life is not just about goals and having a better future. No matter how repetitive you may hear this, the journey and not the destination matters most. 

As a perfectionist and an intuitive person, I always make sure to follow the plan and to not ruin it, which has sucked the life out of my life. I’m only in my twenties but I think as if I’m in my forties because of my future concerns like what would my retirement look like, where will my family reside, and how will I make sure that I take care of my parents when they get old. (and many more) My mom noticed this and she always remind me to focus what is in front of me and enjoy while I am still young. 

The fast-paced world makes everything seem like a never-ending roller coaster. The thrill is great but why not get off the ride and take the ferris wheel once in a while. Enjoy the ride, “like living slowly to take it all in” describes what I’m trying to say. Every moment counts. Maybe this is not just me so I will share some realizations that may potentially help my fellow wordpress-ers on this ongoing concern.

1. Do the things you have always wanted to try.

Life is short and that is not a joke nor does it portray a YOLO lifestyle. It simply means that we have not that long of time to live in this Earth so challenge yourself to live to the fullest every day. You don’t have to oblige yourself to go skydiving, travel halfway around the world, or hike that mountain your friends have gone to. You can but it’s not necessary. Explore your country/city, visit your grandparents to hear their stories, and read books that strengthen you can be some good realistic examples.

I have been in this city for 2 years now and because I have been too involved in school and building my professional life, I seem to lack “life experiences” and after some time, trust me.. I have witnessed people who have taken risks claim the biggest and most wonderful opportunities in their lives. How long have I planned to roam around the city to make memories, try different cuisines, visit historical sites, and meet amazing people. There is so much magic happening just around the corner.. and I am missing it because I am too busy to build my “career path”. How often do I get to be this young.

“You may be older than yesterday but you are still younger” than tomorrow so do yourself a favor and live a life you will be proud to have.

2. Do some planning

I have indicated some because even though you get to live once, you still have to understand the world and how to survive in it. As a twenty-something, I have practiced properly monitoring my budget and plan out my day to be able to accomplish some things that will/may help me later on in life. After all, no matter how much we would want our lives to be perfect and full of happiness, we still have to acknowledge that practical means can save us from bigger regrets.

Study hard. Look for opportunities to grow and strengthen your skills. Network.

Study hard because based on how I looked at things, grades still bring you to many places. I have seen how applications to study, teach, work, and volunteer abroad asks for your GPA. I have always thought that grades were a dictation of my own discipline in being able to focus on what must be done. I was raised in a family where education is a huge aspect of one’s life and I respect the reason behind it.

Opportunities to help you grow are everywhere, you just got to look for them. Accept the challenge of learning something new.. cook that mouthwatering pasta you have seen “In the Kitchen with Stefano Faita”, join an organization to support a cause that holds so much meaning in your life, try that kickboxing class that will help your fitness and health. There are so many things to get involved out there. Understand your community, partake in the world’s concerns, and contribute.

Network with people you admire. Network = Connect, Build, and Sustain Relationships. It is very empowering to be surrounded by open-minded people. It may take some time to sense which relationships will last but you will sense it. After all, the world won’t be what it is without each other’s help. Listen and be heard. 🙂

** There are so many aspects – physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social, and financial – to consider that focusing on one thing does not help you in the bigger scope of life. Balance is the key, my friends!

When life throw rocks at you, use them to build something

BUILD A ROCK CASTLE.
A castle that will protect you from future rocks being thrown at you? NO.
A castle that will strengthen you to thrive despite the rocks being thrown at you? BIG YES.

I feel like there are a lot of times when we think that the only way to get over pain is to avoid it. Come to think of it, no matter how much we find ways to get rid of it, it still keeps coming and it will never stop because our society is imperfect and thus, mistakes are made that create ripples. The best solution to win the battle is if we prepare for those hurdles. There will be times when we will have to choose between what we want and what we need so in order to steer clear of any distractions, we must

Know our values. 
What are three-five things that you value the most in your life? 

Now let me tell you that after establishing these, there is a great probability that it will change some time soon. We are still people and we constantly change or for others, we are still creating ourselves or discovering what makes our heart be filled with so much love and passion. You cannot let go of these passions. I know that in reality, we must be practical in determining our careers and all that and if that’s what you value (Professionalism and Practicality), then you can always do those hobbies at the side. On the other hand, if you believe that you must conquer these dreams (Passion), then you have got to make sure that you will stand by it. (Assertiveness and Confidence).
My values as your fellow human being are family, integrity, enthusiasm, and humility.

Know our strengths.
What are your competencies? What makes you stand out among the crowd?

Is it your smile? Your honesty? Your intelligence and confidence? Your creativity? Your ability to draw attention? Your ability to speak in front of a crowd? Your ability to learn fast and work efficiently? Your attention to detail? Whatever it is, work it! Do not get drawn into the Impostor Syndrome. The small things that we tend to think as useless in the “real” world matters the most because these were the characteristics that most people forget when work comes in their way. We are still people and we have our uniqueness so what’s stopping you from strutting your stuff? You deserve to be heard and to be understood. Accept the challenge!

Know how to appreciate.
What are you most thankful for? Who are your influencers and role models?

More than the people who shape your perspective and risks you take in life, you must acknowledge that you have your own book to write and plagiarism is not tolerable at any cost. What I am trying to say is that there is nothing wrong with getting bits and pieces of tricks from people you admire the most; however, you have your own story to be told as well so appreciate yourself too. The smallest things in life like that woman who offered you a seat in the cramped bus while you were carrying two bags, your 4-year-old cousin who hugs you every time you see each other, the co-worker who helped you deal with the difficult customer, the friend who asked you how you were doing, the food your mom cooked, the times your dad takes you to school, and the running water and the lights you have at home matter. In fact, they matter a lot. Worldly things like fame, power, and wealth are all part of the deal in having a “successful” life in the eyes of the society but they themselves and we, as human individuals, know what best defines the concept.

BUILD THAT ROCK CASTLE!

Listen as your day unfolds, challenge what the future holds

Life does not end after going through a depressive stage or achieving a lifetime goal or checking the last thing off your bucket list. It goes on and on and on.. because that’s the beauty of life.

You have to keep growing
You are not stuck in this box called fear
You are not destined to be the same person you were last year
You are capable of mistakes and these will serve as your path towards a better life to be a better person

Change is the only constant thing in this world.

I have gone through many experiences but never did I realize that after being exposed to so many people, I still have got so much to face. I have always loved being surrounded by adults, not that I am not one. I am talking about grown-ups who are almost twenty years older than I am. As a kid, I was always the one coming along with my mom to attend her events and it was not a bore for me.. actually, it even entertains me.

I told you, I am too mature for my age. I look up to these adults and admire the fact that after going through so much pain, they believe that there is light at the end of the tunnel, a silver lining, and a rainbow after the rain. Wisdom is such a beautiful thing. Take one day at a time and you will see great wonders.

If you are a twenty-something like me or in that stage of your life when you feel lost and tired and sick of everything, let me tell you that you are never alone. EVER! I may be too young to give such advice but bear with me. 😉

Four very important routine to implement in your life:

Have heart-to-heart conversations

Trust me, this helps a lot! I am not saying to do this every single day or every single time that you encounter a problem but at least twice or thrice a month where you will reconnect with people you trust and care about (and vice versa) to share your thoughts about anything and everything. I am grateful for the lovely people in my life, which you must have as well. Surround yourself with positive people and then, treasure them!

It is such a relief that some people are experiencing what you’re experiencing and after these conversations, the load that you are carrying will be so much lighter than it used to be. Why? Because this reminds us that we must not take things too seriously.. because at the end of the day, we know that despite our imperfections, we have people who will always accept us for who we are. Love is such a powerful tool.

Write on a journal

You may not be a writer but it does not really matter because writing down your thoughts.. cools your emotions down because you reflect and think about the bigger picture of the situation. Talking to someone can be good too but remember that whatever you say, you cannot take back so in my opinion, writing it on paper will not only make things clearer but also avoid any misunderstandings or regretful words that you may say. Reflect back to these to remind you how you have grown, which I hope you are, along with your mind, heart, and soul.

Have a “me” time

Go out. Watch a movie. Shop. Walk out and about. Do groceries. Wander in the park. Go to a gallery.
Just do something for yourself by yourself. It does not hurt.. it may be awkward at first since you are not used to it and may feel that other people may see you as a loner, but why do you care what they think? This is serenity and how it must be for you to hear your thoughts. Treat yourself with something you have always wanted but never really had “the time” to have.. like that ice cream truck you have always wondered about.

Tell yourself, “You are worth it”

because my friend, you are and always will be.

You gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger.  – Des’ree (watch this)