Welcome to the first week of the semester! If you’re like me, then you have some “new semester’s resolutions” you’d like to make. Maybe to be less stressed, or start homework earlier, or contribute more effectively as a member of your student organization.
Most resolutions stem from a bad experience. You had a miserable time during exams, and want it to be different this year. You pulled an all-nighter to finish an assignment and don’t ever want to do that again. What was it for you?
This is THE Week
When we look back on something that didn’t work, it’s easy to focus too closely on the pain point. We think about the stressful week, and try to figure out what we can do differently next time.
The problem is that the stressful week wasn’t the result of isolated events. Presuming that you work diligently, it was the result of making too many commitments.
YES
We’re surrounded by pressure to be everything to everyone. Never pass up a good opportunity. Don’t miss your chance. Those three letters, Y-E-S are what caused your stressful week. At the beginning of the semester, you said ‘yes’ to too much.
So my challenge for you this week: realize your power to choose. You will be faced with MANY opportunities to join or commit. Pick the ones you take on carefully. Ask what every commitment adds to your life. Exercise your power. Just because everyone says ‘yes’ (and regrets it later) doesn’t mean you have to.
What’s something you can drop? Leave a comment and tell your story: how did you get roped in? Why do you think ‘yes’ was a mistake?
