SPRING CLEANING.

Nile here!

You all are probably wondering where I've been and why in the world I'm blogging at 6:00am.

Well, lets just say that this semester has been one heck of a ride. Now that midterms are over, and I can finally breathe (and sleep), I thought I should update you all on what I've been doing lately: Spring Cleaning.

Nile
Co-Founder

Twitter: @NaturallyNi
Instagram: @ineedyoulikethesun

When I say "spring cleaning," I don't mean cleaning your room, or putting your winter clothes in storage to make room for your spring/summer clothes, but I mean internal spring cleaning--letting go of any baggage from last season.

Last season was full of ups and downs for me. Some of my ups were: starting my freshman year of college, academic achievements, meeting new people, and re-launching Nerdy Naturals. Some of my downs were: being overwhelmed at a large university, dealing with mental health issues, and even letting go of some people. I used my winter break to reflect on my fall semester, and made some changes during the beginning of the spring semester.

Scroll down to read about five things I've done as early "spring cleaning"  these past few weeks that I will continue throughout the rest of the spring. You're more than welcome use these as tips!

"Spring Cleaning"

1. Don't take anything personally. 

I once read a quote by Don Miguel Ruiz that says: "There is a huge amount of freedom that comes when you take nothing personally." And this is true. Because I have anxiety, it often makes it difficult for me not to take things personally because I always think that I did something wrong. But sometimes, the things people do have nothing to do with you. The things that people do are often a reflection of how they feel on the inside.

2. Stop feeling bad because you don't fit into the "norm."

This especially holds true in college, where the stereotype is to party every weekend, drink, smoke, etc. I had to remind myself that it's TOTALLY OKAY that I don't do those things. I went out to a few parties here and there first semester just for the experience (I didn't drink or anything), and I realized that it just wasn't my scene. Not shaming anyone who likes to party--have a great time! But I just found other ways to spend my weekends. Whether that be going to the movies, going to sporting events, going out to eat, visiting family, or just staying in my dorm and doing my homework and relaxing. My friends are down to do anything and don't criticize me for not wanting to party. If you have friends that pressure you to do things you don't want to do, you might need to re-evaluate the friendship. You don't have to live up to the college "norms."

My type of party.

3. Learn how to say "No" and be okay with it.

 I have found myself to be the type of person who likes to be there for everyone else, and I often forget about myself in the process. I am learning how to say "No" to people without having to explain myself because sometimes I just need time to take care of myself. I am my number one priority and I shouldn't have to explain that to anyone else.

4. Stop being so afraid to put yourself out there.

My mom tells me all the time: "Your network is your net worth." In order to build your network, you have to be willing to put yourself out there and meet new people. I went from a small school to a large university and the transition was overwhelming--I was a small fish in a big pond. But instead of allowing the size of my school intimidate me, it makes me want to work harder to make myself known.

5. When you sense negativity, think about the positive things happening in your life.

I am learning to see the glass half full. Life brings challenges, and it's up to you how you handle them--they can make you a stronger person, or they can break you. Now, instead of being so hard on myself, I try to celebrate the small victories and learn lessons from my mistakes. 

How are YOU  "spring cleaning?" Which tip did you like the most? What are you struggling with? Let me know by tweeting me @NaturallyNi or commenting on Instagram @ineedyoulikethesun! You can even email us at: nerdynaturals@gmail.com.

Nile is a Freshman Communications major with a concentration in Public Relations from Pasadena, Maryland. You can contact her on any of the social media sites above (in the caption below her picture). You can also email nerdynaturals@gmail.com if you have any questions or are interested in contributing.