Embracing Change: Becoming the Woman You were Meant to be this Summer
Is your life starting to feel like a constant loop of desires? Repeating the same routine day after day can be exhausting, and it might be time to consider making some changes to your lifestyle and mindset.
It can be tough letting go of the person you used to be. Saying goodbye to the things that once brought you joy. Change is often intimidating at first, and losing parts of yourself can feel like things are coming to an end. However, I can reassure you that this feeling is completely normal.
Much like any high-achieving woman, you have goals. Longing for a better life without the appropriate actions is completely senseless. So why not make this summer count by pursuing your desires; there is no time like the present after all.
The first step to a meaningful summer this year is creating a bucket list of things you want to achieve before the fall returns. This can include anything from minute triumphants to huge successes; or simply fun things you want to try. Whatever it may be, don’t forget to document your progress by marking off all of your accomplishments.
An article by the American Psychological Association states that the first step in making positive changes is to map out a plan. This includes writing down your goals with details of how you will attain them. For example, if you would like to start eating healthier, list the healthy food options you would like to incorporate into your diet. Most importantly, try to make these goals as realistic as possible, and be kind to yourself because results do not come instantly.
Though you have no control over what will come your way in your walk of life; you can control how you carry yourself despite hardship. To achieve a sense of control despite life's unforeseen obstacles, you should ask yourself if you’re properly taking your “lifestyle medicine”. This term is clearly defined in an article published by Harvard Health as six pillars that people should follow to get rid of bad habits.
So the next time you feel down ask yourself: “Am I exercising?” “Do I give myself enough time to relax or rest?” “Am I efficiently sustaining my social life?” “Do I eat properly?” “And am I abusing any substances like drugs or alcohol?”
If you still feel something missing after evaluating your dosage of “ lifestyle medicine”, maybe your life is missing something that isn’t a part of those six pillars. Have some fun! Try a new hairstyle or invest in a new wardrobe. Changing your appearance is a great way to adapt to new circumstances. According to Psychology Today’s Dena Kouremetis, altering your hair appearance allows women to avoid being “frozen in time” and adapt to new life circumstances.
Remember, life will not always be perfect, and there will certainly be some mountains to climb. Don’t give up. Take control of this process by making decisions that can improve your life this summer.
Resources
Long-lasting healthy changes: Doable and worthwhile
Julianna Brown is studying to be a journalist as an upcoming sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University. In her free time, she enjoys exercising and spending time with those she loves.