Monday, June 4, 2012
Friday, June 1, 2012
Day 33
“Our
frustration is greater when we have much and want more than when we
have nothing and want some. We are less dissatisfied when we lack many
things than when we seem to lack but one thing” - Eric Hoffer
Trying to stay positive when things are not going your way is an act of discipline and focus. There is something inherently difficult in forcing a change in mindset. However, from what I've observed, it seems like the most successful people are those who are able to turn negative situations into something better either by accepting that it is out of their control and letting go, or having the power to positively impact the situation.
And if this is a habit, then it just takes practice. Although it feels uncomfortable at first to tell yourself to be grateful and happy even if you aren't, you will eventually start feeling happy.
Trying to stay positive when things are not going your way is an act of discipline and focus. There is something inherently difficult in forcing a change in mindset. However, from what I've observed, it seems like the most successful people are those who are able to turn negative situations into something better either by accepting that it is out of their control and letting go, or having the power to positively impact the situation.
And if this is a habit, then it just takes practice. Although it feels uncomfortable at first to tell yourself to be grateful and happy even if you aren't, you will eventually start feeling happy.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Day 32
"I will not be concerned at other men's not knowing me; I will be concerned at my own want of ability" - Confucius
Sometimes it is frustrating feeling like people do not know what you are going through. Even if others try to put themselves in our shoes, they will not fully understand what it is like to be us. We have to learn to be content knowing that we are excelling for our own standards.
Sometimes it is frustrating feeling like people do not know what you are going through. Even if others try to put themselves in our shoes, they will not fully understand what it is like to be us. We have to learn to be content knowing that we are excelling for our own standards.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Day 31
“The future starts today, not tomorrow" - Pope John Paul II
I think it is very helpful to remember that we have the power to control our future. Even though there are times when we swear we have been lucky or a randomly amazing opportunity has come our way, more of that has to do with the hard work we have already invested.
It's probably easier to tell yourself "it wasn't meant to be" instead of "I didn't work as hard as I should have". So, hard work and confidence go a long way!
I think it is very helpful to remember that we have the power to control our future. Even though there are times when we swear we have been lucky or a randomly amazing opportunity has come our way, more of that has to do with the hard work we have already invested.
It's probably easier to tell yourself "it wasn't meant to be" instead of "I didn't work as hard as I should have". So, hard work and confidence go a long way!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Day 30
Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind - Dr. Seuss
I think it's very easy to get caught up in what other people think, and if that's not a problem for you, then you're very lucky! Basically, my philosophy used to be that I would be nice to people who were nice to me, and I would not let the others get me down. I think that was a good reminder for me, especially since I tend to be a people-pleaser. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, but sometimes coming to terms with the fact that you can't make everyone happy will help you from spreading yourself too thin.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Day 29
"It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light." -Taylor Benson
I know for certain that some of my biggest and best changes have occurred because of letdowns, disappointments, and difficult times. I think it has something to do with not continuing to be in the same painful situation and trying to change for the better. I definitely feel like it is an internal force that is difficult to reckon with, especially being a person who initially resists change. I guess these difficult, uncertain times are helping to make us stronger and we will understand why someday.
I know for certain that some of my biggest and best changes have occurred because of letdowns, disappointments, and difficult times. I think it has something to do with not continuing to be in the same painful situation and trying to change for the better. I definitely feel like it is an internal force that is difficult to reckon with, especially being a person who initially resists change. I guess these difficult, uncertain times are helping to make us stronger and we will understand why someday.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Day 28
"Like politics, all medicine is local. Medicine requires the successful
function of systems - of people and of technologies. Among our most
profound difficulties is making them work together. If I want to give my
patients the best care possible, not only must I do a good job, but a
whole collection of diverse components must somehow mesh effectively" - Atul Gawande
Healthcare represents a culmination of efforts from physicians, nurses, administrators, and an entire team of dedicated people that provide a certain quality of care. A system is made up of parts that work together, and the healthcare system is no different. Atul Gawande has been able to illustrate how healthcare functions optimally through precise and descriptive examples. Providing the best quality of care to patients cannot be accomplished alone; it is a group effort. What Gawande later explains in his speech to the Stanford University School of Medicine's graduating class is that the world of medicine is vast and thus it is impossible to know everything about it. Employing the help of other experts in the field allows us to provide truly patient-centered care. We are moving toward accountable care organizations, and this is just another example of that.
From a happiness perspective, I find it fascinating to be able to solve problems. Working with other people gives us a sense of belonging and camaraderie and allows us to face challenges more easily.
Healthcare represents a culmination of efforts from physicians, nurses, administrators, and an entire team of dedicated people that provide a certain quality of care. A system is made up of parts that work together, and the healthcare system is no different. Atul Gawande has been able to illustrate how healthcare functions optimally through precise and descriptive examples. Providing the best quality of care to patients cannot be accomplished alone; it is a group effort. What Gawande later explains in his speech to the Stanford University School of Medicine's graduating class is that the world of medicine is vast and thus it is impossible to know everything about it. Employing the help of other experts in the field allows us to provide truly patient-centered care. We are moving toward accountable care organizations, and this is just another example of that.
From a happiness perspective, I find it fascinating to be able to solve problems. Working with other people gives us a sense of belonging and camaraderie and allows us to face challenges more easily.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Day 27
“Nothing
in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not;
nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will
not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the
world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone
are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve
the problems of the human race" - Calvin Coolidge
Never give up! How many times have you heard someone say, "He (or she) has so much potential, but they just don't have the drive". Who wants to be that person? It's like throwing away a talent or a skill when you don't apply yourself!
Never give up! How many times have you heard someone say, "He (or she) has so much potential, but they just don't have the drive". Who wants to be that person? It's like throwing away a talent or a skill when you don't apply yourself!
Friday, May 18, 2012
Day 26
"Life begins at the end of your comfort zone"
Are you going to continue doing the same things that make you unhappy or are you going to take a risk and do what you've always wanted? That's when you can start living your life!
Are you going to continue doing the same things that make you unhappy or are you going to take a risk and do what you've always wanted? That's when you can start living your life!
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Day 25
"It is our choices...that show what we truly are,
far more than our abilities" - J.K. Rowling
When I think about how many people in high-level positions make dumb decisions, I find it ridiculous. Many of them reached the top of their classes, attended Ivy League Schools, scored top notch internships and were able to network and work their ways to the top of their field(s). A few years go by, and we hear how they cheated on their wife with a stripper, sent inappropriate picture messages to their Twitter, beat up their mistress' husband outside of his their house, etc....
When it comes down to it, it doesn't matter what amazing work they performed at their company or their superb credentials, they will be remembered for that one dumb choice they made.
So basically, when you think people aren't watching you, they are. Also, it doesn't matter how hard you've worked to land your awesome position, it takes one wrong decision to ruin your career or life. It's kind of scary, and I used really dramatic examples, but it reminds me to always make morally correct choices.
When I think about how many people in high-level positions make dumb decisions, I find it ridiculous. Many of them reached the top of their classes, attended Ivy League Schools, scored top notch internships and were able to network and work their ways to the top of their field(s). A few years go by, and we hear how they cheated on their wife with a stripper, sent inappropriate picture messages to their Twitter, beat up their mistress' husband outside of his their house, etc....
When it comes down to it, it doesn't matter what amazing work they performed at their company or their superb credentials, they will be remembered for that one dumb choice they made.
So basically, when you think people aren't watching you, they are. Also, it doesn't matter how hard you've worked to land your awesome position, it takes one wrong decision to ruin your career or life. It's kind of scary, and I used really dramatic examples, but it reminds me to always make morally correct choices.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Day 24
“One word frees us of all the weight and pain of life: that word is love” - Sophocles
It seems like life is so much more carefree and light when we are in loving moods. Every moment of life is more vivid, more beautiful, and the difficult moments are not as difficult. We don't always have to be madly in love, but we should always love ourselves and have a loving attitude toward others to experience this.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Day 23
"The reason people find it so hard to be happy is that
they always see the past better than it was, the present worse than it
is, and the future less resolved than it will be" – Marcel Pagnol
Having studied how and why people make decisions, it was always interesting to explain our behavior. One of the most interesting things I learned was how our behavior is influenced by time. We have biases towards the past and future. Various studies have shown that people view the past through rose-colored glasses, remembering the nostalgic "back in the day" moments as positive and wonderful. An example of this is when we hear people say "you never regret something that you did, you always regret something you don't do". This probably has a lot to do with the fact that we view those memories with a slight optimistic bias.
On the other hand, the future may be perceived as uncertain and frightening. I always think it's good to keep these facts of human behavior in mind and make tons and tons of decision trees to properly weigh possibilities. Just kidding, but not completely!
Having studied how and why people make decisions, it was always interesting to explain our behavior. One of the most interesting things I learned was how our behavior is influenced by time. We have biases towards the past and future. Various studies have shown that people view the past through rose-colored glasses, remembering the nostalgic "back in the day" moments as positive and wonderful. An example of this is when we hear people say "you never regret something that you did, you always regret something you don't do". This probably has a lot to do with the fact that we view those memories with a slight optimistic bias.
On the other hand, the future may be perceived as uncertain and frightening. I always think it's good to keep these facts of human behavior in mind and make tons and tons of decision trees to properly weigh possibilities. Just kidding, but not completely!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Day 22
"We have to teach ourselves how to live, really live... to love the journey, not the destination" - Anna Quindlen
I have to stop saving up all my good moments and looking forward to special occasions because when I do that, I'm missing out on living for today!
I have to stop saving up all my good moments and looking forward to special occasions because when I do that, I'm missing out on living for today!
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Day 21
"To be great is to be misunderstood" - Ralph Waldo Emerson
This quote reminds me to be myself and follow my own path. It is tempting to want to keep up with the Joneses, the Kardashians, and whoever else. However, sometimes that is just not possible given where we need to be in life, rather than where we feel like we should be.
Doing what is right for myself means taking a step back and learning about myself through acceptance.
This quote reminds me to be myself and follow my own path. It is tempting to want to keep up with the Joneses, the Kardashians, and whoever else. However, sometimes that is just not possible given where we need to be in life, rather than where we feel like we should be.
Doing what is right for myself means taking a step back and learning about myself through acceptance.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Day 20
- "We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails" - Bertha Calloway
- When life hits us with a storm, we decide how to react to it. Sometimes we are not fully aware that we are making a decision, but I know it helps me to stop and think of what is in my control and what I can let go. There are way too many things we already worry about, why not drop some of the things we cannot change for the time being?
Monday, May 7, 2012
Day 19
"A man who is a master of patience is master of everything else"
- George Savile
For me, one of the things I struggle with most is waiting. Society has primed us to expect convenience and instant gratification. And I am not using society as an excuse for my impatience, but I will say there are many differences between the United States (especially the Northeast) and other countries. While I was studying abroad in Granada, Spain, I was shocked to see how important relaxation is. Siestas are celebrated and incorporated into the day, as businesses shut down from 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. In Spain, I had to learn to practice patience, mostly because I had never had to do so before. It was also much harder to be an anxious, stressed out person when I had taken time to relax. This helped me become a much more easygoing, happy person who did not get frustrated with untimely people or situations. Even though I live in the United States and it may be harder to intrinsically be patient, it is a habit that should be practiced.
For me, one of the things I struggle with most is waiting. Society has primed us to expect convenience and instant gratification. And I am not using society as an excuse for my impatience, but I will say there are many differences between the United States (especially the Northeast) and other countries. While I was studying abroad in Granada, Spain, I was shocked to see how important relaxation is. Siestas are celebrated and incorporated into the day, as businesses shut down from 3:00 P.M. - 5:00 P.M. In Spain, I had to learn to practice patience, mostly because I had never had to do so before. It was also much harder to be an anxious, stressed out person when I had taken time to relax. This helped me become a much more easygoing, happy person who did not get frustrated with untimely people or situations. Even though I live in the United States and it may be harder to intrinsically be patient, it is a habit that should be practiced.
Friday, May 4, 2012
Day 18
"Ask yourself: 'Can I give more?'. The answer is usually: 'Yes'." - Paul Tergat, Kenyan professional marathoner
In honor of the upcoming Pittsburgh Marathon (I will be running the 5K on Saturday and the marathon relay of 6.1 miles on Sunday), I decided a motivational running quote would be fitting for today. I love running because it is a challenge. It's a mental challenge more than anything for me, because my feet can be in pain, but I will just push myself farther because I know what I'm capable of. And I think that's how runners become winners.
Disclaimer: Listen to your body. Don't ignore an injury.
In honor of the upcoming Pittsburgh Marathon (I will be running the 5K on Saturday and the marathon relay of 6.1 miles on Sunday), I decided a motivational running quote would be fitting for today. I love running because it is a challenge. It's a mental challenge more than anything for me, because my feet can be in pain, but I will just push myself farther because I know what I'm capable of. And I think that's how runners become winners.
Disclaimer: Listen to your body. Don't ignore an injury.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Day 17
"If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all"
My mom used to tell this to me all the time. Now I get to give credit where credit is due.
Sometimes it takes more control to bite my tongue and not say something than to speak. I know how momentarily satisfying it would be to let that insult or bit of gossip roll off my tongue. However, I think that gaining some willpower to control what I say (and don't say) would not allow me to speak negatively, and therefore make me a more pleasant person. Now the next time someone says something insulting, whether they meant it or not, it is up to me how I react to them. If I need a break to think about what to say, I will breathe deeply and repeat "silence is golden".
Thanks, mums! :)
My mom used to tell this to me all the time. Now I get to give credit where credit is due.
Sometimes it takes more control to bite my tongue and not say something than to speak. I know how momentarily satisfying it would be to let that insult or bit of gossip roll off my tongue. However, I think that gaining some willpower to control what I say (and don't say) would not allow me to speak negatively, and therefore make me a more pleasant person. Now the next time someone says something insulting, whether they meant it or not, it is up to me how I react to them. If I need a break to think about what to say, I will breathe deeply and repeat "silence is golden".
Thanks, mums! :)
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Day 16
"Happiness consists in activity; such as the constitution of our nature; it is a running stream, and not a stagnant pool" - Anonymous
Sometimes I get lazy. I get comfortable in how my life is, and I do not see any need to make any changes. If it's not broken, why fix it? But I know deep down inside that some of the best changes come from the greatest challenges. As a catalyst, they provide me with a sense of motivation and urgency to act towards obtaining happiness. I am reminded everyday that if I want happiness, I need to act to make that happen.
Sometimes I get lazy. I get comfortable in how my life is, and I do not see any need to make any changes. If it's not broken, why fix it? But I know deep down inside that some of the best changes come from the greatest challenges. As a catalyst, they provide me with a sense of motivation and urgency to act towards obtaining happiness. I am reminded everyday that if I want happiness, I need to act to make that happen.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Monday, April 30, 2012
Day 14
"People that put themselves above others will fall longer and harder" - Gina Lindley
In a world of Facebook and Twitter, where people are constantly showcasing their latest and greatest accomplishments, it is very easy to feel like you are not measuring up. Keeping up with the Joneses is now available for your viewing pleasure!
Humility is underrated, while showcasing one's personal talents and achievements is a priority. I have to keep reminding myself that without many of the people in my life, I would not be where I am today. It is by giving freely of their time and energy that makes them a good friend.
Now I think it is fabulous and essential to be proud of your own personal successes, but I think it is important to be thankful and mindful of the path that led you to where you are. And perhaps it would be refreshing to step away from looking at your own life to instead give thanks for what you do have by being there for a friend or family member in need.
In a world of Facebook and Twitter, where people are constantly showcasing their latest and greatest accomplishments, it is very easy to feel like you are not measuring up. Keeping up with the Joneses is now available for your viewing pleasure!
Humility is underrated, while showcasing one's personal talents and achievements is a priority. I have to keep reminding myself that without many of the people in my life, I would not be where I am today. It is by giving freely of their time and energy that makes them a good friend.
Now I think it is fabulous and essential to be proud of your own personal successes, but I think it is important to be thankful and mindful of the path that led you to where you are. And perhaps it would be refreshing to step away from looking at your own life to instead give thanks for what you do have by being there for a friend or family member in need.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Day 13
"Knowledge of what is possible is the beginning of happiness" - George Santayana
As a planner, I really appreciate this quote. In order for me to have something to plan, an idea has to pop into my mind and take root. I also have to believe that something will come of this idea; I have to believe it is possible. When I have self-doubt or lack faith, I start experiencing disbelief. I have to remind myself that if I can dream it, I can do it.
As a planner, I really appreciate this quote. In order for me to have something to plan, an idea has to pop into my mind and take root. I also have to believe that something will come of this idea; I have to believe it is possible. When I have self-doubt or lack faith, I start experiencing disbelief. I have to remind myself that if I can dream it, I can do it.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Day 12
"The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue
happiness. You have to catch it yourself" - Author unknown, commonly
attributed to Benjamin Franklin
If you have been given an opportunity that you have been wanting, go for it! You only live once!
If you have been given an opportunity that you have been wanting, go for it! You only live once!
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Day 11
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit" -Aristotle
In order to become excellent at something, we have to keep at it and make it a ritual in our daily lives. Experts have said that it takes two weeks to change eating habits. The same is true of most other activities. When we go to the gym at 6:00 a.m. every day, it turns into the same habit as brushing our teeth every day.
The really important thing is to change any negative habits to positive ones, especially while we are still young. I have been trying to eliminate the aspects of my life that do not contribute to my overall happiness. It's a great time for spring cleaning!
In order to become excellent at something, we have to keep at it and make it a ritual in our daily lives. Experts have said that it takes two weeks to change eating habits. The same is true of most other activities. When we go to the gym at 6:00 a.m. every day, it turns into the same habit as brushing our teeth every day.
The really important thing is to change any negative habits to positive ones, especially while we are still young. I have been trying to eliminate the aspects of my life that do not contribute to my overall happiness. It's a great time for spring cleaning!
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Day 10
"Don't learn the tricks of the trade. Learn the trade" -Anonymous
In my opinion, becoming an "expert" in a trade is a very satisfying and rewarding experience. When I have worked hard to learn something, I always feel more satisfied and accomplished than if I would have found an easy shortcut. Not only do I feel better about myself, but I think that others respect me more for my hard work and effort.
Sometimes that means pushing the boundaries to create something innovative and new, but that is ultimately how we learn!
In my opinion, becoming an "expert" in a trade is a very satisfying and rewarding experience. When I have worked hard to learn something, I always feel more satisfied and accomplished than if I would have found an easy shortcut. Not only do I feel better about myself, but I think that others respect me more for my hard work and effort.
Sometimes that means pushing the boundaries to create something innovative and new, but that is ultimately how we learn!
Friday, April 20, 2012
Day 9
"Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony" - Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi is a great example of a person who is connected in mind and body. His quote resonates with one of the many reasons why I love practicing yoga. Yoga is meant to connect our mental and physical states and allows us to achieve more balance in our lives. What I love most about yoga is that every practice is completely different. Going to practice allows me to connect whatever situation I am in with the present. It allows me to breathe. This seemingly simple, yet challenging practice allows me to focus on me for an hour and a few, which is so necessary in our busy lives.
Gandhi is a great example of a person who is connected in mind and body. His quote resonates with one of the many reasons why I love practicing yoga. Yoga is meant to connect our mental and physical states and allows us to achieve more balance in our lives. What I love most about yoga is that every practice is completely different. Going to practice allows me to connect whatever situation I am in with the present. It allows me to breathe. This seemingly simple, yet challenging practice allows me to focus on me for an hour and a few, which is so necessary in our busy lives.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Day 8
"Most of the shadows of this life are caused by our standing in our own sunshine" - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Now that it is spring, the sun is finally appearing again. As much as I enjoy the sunshine and nice weather, everywhere I have lived (Northern VA, GA, Granada, Spain, and Pittsburgh) has had bouts of gloomy weather. I've found that certain seasons don't necessarily make me happy, though. What makes me happy are the details and memories of each special time of year. Christmastime is my favorite time of year because of the celebratory nature and the holiday spirit. If such a cold, generally dark time of year is also my favorite time of year, doesn't that mean that my feelings are not a direct reflection of the weather outside? I think that if I start to enjoy the festivities of life on a regular basis, life will become even more wonderful.
Now that it is spring, the sun is finally appearing again. As much as I enjoy the sunshine and nice weather, everywhere I have lived (Northern VA, GA, Granada, Spain, and Pittsburgh) has had bouts of gloomy weather. I've found that certain seasons don't necessarily make me happy, though. What makes me happy are the details and memories of each special time of year. Christmastime is my favorite time of year because of the celebratory nature and the holiday spirit. If such a cold, generally dark time of year is also my favorite time of year, doesn't that mean that my feelings are not a direct reflection of the weather outside? I think that if I start to enjoy the festivities of life on a regular basis, life will become even more wonderful.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Day 7
"Don't limit investing to the financial world. Invest something of yourself, and you will be richly rewarded" - Charles Schwab
This quote really stuck out to me today. I recently started my loan repayment process. For anyone who is going through that or has been through it, you know how it feels when the money you just started to earn is being stripped away from you, like - well, there aren't many comparable situations (if you can think of any, let me know...). And when you continue to look at what you still owe, it seems like you are just throwing your hard-earned money into an insurmountable pit of debt. It seems like you will never be able to pay this off. And what about living expenses? You still have to pay those! And any big change in life?! Getting a car? Moving? Those are expensive too!
All of those changes and events in your life are investments in your future! You make investments with the intention of creating a better life for yourself and your loved ones. Or maybe you are content with the way things are.
Either way, everything you have done up until this point in your life has been an investment in the person you are today. Sometimes investments, like education, are costly and challenging, but you have to keep in mind why you made them in the first place... for rewards down the road!
This quote really stuck out to me today. I recently started my loan repayment process. For anyone who is going through that or has been through it, you know how it feels when the money you just started to earn is being stripped away from you, like - well, there aren't many comparable situations (if you can think of any, let me know...). And when you continue to look at what you still owe, it seems like you are just throwing your hard-earned money into an insurmountable pit of debt. It seems like you will never be able to pay this off. And what about living expenses? You still have to pay those! And any big change in life?! Getting a car? Moving? Those are expensive too!
All of those changes and events in your life are investments in your future! You make investments with the intention of creating a better life for yourself and your loved ones. Or maybe you are content with the way things are.
Either way, everything you have done up until this point in your life has been an investment in the person you are today. Sometimes investments, like education, are costly and challenging, but you have to keep in mind why you made them in the first place... for rewards down the road!
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Day 6
"The way to gain a good reputation, is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear" - Socrates
Motivational theories often suggest that your behavior is a reflection of your mentality. If you desire to be more positive, start focusing on the good things in life. Fine-tuning yourself towards your goal will allow you to achieve it.
I personally wanted to be more athletic and healthy since I am a Master of Public Health. I wanted to practice what I preach. I used to be a cheerleader at CMU and have always been very active by playing tennis and running the majority of my life. To keep up with my fitness, I started attending yoga classes in 2011. First, I went with friends as a fun group activity. I soon became obsessed with the practice and went at least twice a week. I also signed up for my first race, a 5K, which was the gateway to a five-mile race, and then recently a 10K. This was all within six months, and I feel like I am living a more healthy life since I have made an action plan for myself.
Motivational theories often suggest that your behavior is a reflection of your mentality. If you desire to be more positive, start focusing on the good things in life. Fine-tuning yourself towards your goal will allow you to achieve it.
I personally wanted to be more athletic and healthy since I am a Master of Public Health. I wanted to practice what I preach. I used to be a cheerleader at CMU and have always been very active by playing tennis and running the majority of my life. To keep up with my fitness, I started attending yoga classes in 2011. First, I went with friends as a fun group activity. I soon became obsessed with the practice and went at least twice a week. I also signed up for my first race, a 5K, which was the gateway to a five-mile race, and then recently a 10K. This was all within six months, and I feel like I am living a more healthy life since I have made an action plan for myself.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Day 5
"The road to happiness is happiness"
Ohhh, you thought I would post every day? Nope, I'll be taking the weekends off!
Well, happiness should not just be a goal. I think what brings about happiness are the little things that happen in our lives every day that reaffirm our joy.
Ohhh, you thought I would post every day? Nope, I'll be taking the weekends off!
Well, happiness should not just be a goal. I think what brings about happiness are the little things that happen in our lives every day that reaffirm our joy.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Day 4
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself" -Matthew 6:34 NIV
Every day presents accomplishments as well as challenges of its own. There is no sense in worrying about all the distinct possibilities of what may happen in a given situation when there is no certainty that the events will occur.
From a health perspective, worrying causes stress, and stress is one of the easiest ways we hurt ourselves: physically, mentally, and emotionally. It requires a lot of discipline and distraction to avoid worrying about the future, but in the end, what is meant to be will be. Because that's generally how life works.
Every day presents accomplishments as well as challenges of its own. There is no sense in worrying about all the distinct possibilities of what may happen in a given situation when there is no certainty that the events will occur.
From a health perspective, worrying causes stress, and stress is one of the easiest ways we hurt ourselves: physically, mentally, and emotionally. It requires a lot of discipline and distraction to avoid worrying about the future, but in the end, what is meant to be will be. Because that's generally how life works.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Day 3
"My heart is in the work" - Andrew Carnegie
This quote is meaningful to me as Carnegie Mellon University is my alma mater. Throughout my four years of undergrad, I learned that everyone around me had an intense passion for their designated field of study. I too focused on working towards something I always had a passion for: helping others. That path led me to a complete a Master's in Public Health, several internships, a residency, and arrive at a career in health policy and management.
Reflecting on the path I took, I can see that my heart was into helping people, and that is the reason why I have been able to make it my work.
This quote is meaningful to me as Carnegie Mellon University is my alma mater. Throughout my four years of undergrad, I learned that everyone around me had an intense passion for their designated field of study. I too focused on working towards something I always had a passion for: helping others. That path led me to a complete a Master's in Public Health, several internships, a residency, and arrive at a career in health policy and management.
Reflecting on the path I took, I can see that my heart was into helping people, and that is the reason why I have been able to make it my work.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Day 2
"Not all those who wander are lost" - J.R.R. Tolkien
This is a quote that struck me as perfect for anyone who is in the midst of transitions or facing changes in their life. Sometimes it is okay not to know what the future holds. It is okay to explore life and take some time off from planning every detail in order to just be. By allowing yourself to "wander", you will find out who you are, gain a richer understanding of what you want from life, and what you like/dislike. You may just find yourself in the process.
This is a quote that struck me as perfect for anyone who is in the midst of transitions or facing changes in their life. Sometimes it is okay not to know what the future holds. It is okay to explore life and take some time off from planning every detail in order to just be. By allowing yourself to "wander", you will find out who you are, gain a richer understanding of what you want from life, and what you like/dislike. You may just find yourself in the process.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Day 1
"Learn to love yourself before you love anyone else"
I had an idea to make a blog based off of Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project" in which I dedicate a year to improve my happiness, thereby improving my interactions with others, and ultimately improving my personal and professional relationships.
My idea is to share a quote of inspiring optimism or nugget of motivation every day for a year. I haven't decided if I will re-cite all my quotes or if I will make up my own. We'll see as we go along!
I had an idea to make a blog based off of Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project" in which I dedicate a year to improve my happiness, thereby improving my interactions with others, and ultimately improving my personal and professional relationships.
My idea is to share a quote of inspiring optimism or nugget of motivation every day for a year. I haven't decided if I will re-cite all my quotes or if I will make up my own. We'll see as we go along!
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