Learning Challenge: Biology of Positivity

Happy 

Picture by Jane Schouten

Source: Flickr

The Biology of Positivity

I think being positive about any situation is one of the greatest characteristics one can have. However, not all of us can naturally see the good in everything. Some of us need to be reminded to stay positive. Some of us need to train ourselves to think positive, act positive, and be positive. For some being positive is natural, and for others it's a process. 

The Biology of Positivity suggests little things to do to train our brain to think positive. Yes, you can train your brain to do what you want. I feel the suggestions like "look for good things in small amounts" is one of my favorites. I've looked for small things in my day to day life to be proud about. For instance, if I make a healthy meal one day, that is one good thing I did for myself that day. Another example would be having a good workout, which is one good thing to accomplish in one day. Drinking tea can also be one good thing to for yourself in that one day. These are just small, positive things to reflect on. 

Another favorite of mine is "be persistent, knowing that change takes time." I think knowing change isn't going to happen overnight is something we all have to accept not matter what new challenge we face. I for one am a very impatient person, so I have to continuously remind myself change takes time, and to not give up. I do this by writing encouraging notes in my planner for myself. These are just small steps for a more positive life I challenged myself to do, and hope you all take the challenge, as well. Good luck!

Learning Challenge: Healthy Tip

 

Tea Time

Picture by Abayburina

Source: Flickr

Recently, I've become a huge fan of Teavana! For those of you that do not know, Teavana is a tea store that has every type of tea you could possibly want. I've heard a lot of good things about tea. For example, tea can help you sleep, feel better when you're sick, lose weight, detox, etc. A new lifestyle habit I have added to my own life is drinking tea at least once a day. Right now, I'm switching between green tea with lemon, and a stress relief tea. 

I drink my stress relief tea right before bed. It has a very soothing scent, and has a bit of cinnamon in it. I think relaxation is so important in order to stay healthy. I strongly believe that "you are what you eat." That being said, I'm trying to discover new teas, and different ways to relax. My tea routine includes turning off my lights, and turning on my lamp, put my tea on my nightstand, and do my work in bed.  This makes my stressful homework assignments so much more doable--especially when its 2 AM, and I'm super exhausted. I also heard drinking tea after or before working out is a good habit to stay healthy. I'm going to give this a try next week! A healthy diet is so much more than looking good. It's a way to be the best person you can. I feel as if my entire body is getting a good cleanse after I drink my teas. I feel so much better about myself, and my diet. The best part about it is that it's super cheap to purchase when you're on a college budget, so grab a cup of tea and enjoy!

Learning Challenge: Pomodoro Technique

 

Tick Tock

Picture by Jordyn Whittington

Source: Flickr

Link to Video: The Science of Procrastination—And How To Manage It

I challenged myself to try the Pomodoro Technique, and I think I’m a fan! I’ve heard of something like this before, but it said to work for a longer time period—it did not work for me. I love that this technique because it is only twenty-five minutes. I’m someone that gets distracted by my phone a lot. This technique really helps stop the urge.

Something that stood out to me in this video was that sometimes people say they will not procrastinate later, but end up procrastinating. I have definitely gone through this, and it is not fun. I think reminding myself “I will procrastinate later, so do it now” is a good way to finish what I start. I feel like depending on time in the future is a bad idea because I’ve experienced that something always comes up—like grocery shopping, laundry, or just simply talking to your roommates. These are all little things that can happen in the future. After watching “The Science of Procrastination—And How To Manage It,” I’ve realized that short term rewards are not always the best, setting twenty-five minutes to work is actually very effective because I tried it, and the Pomodoro Technique is a must try for all procrastinator.