The Balancing Act

Hello Darling, 

In light of the new school year, new internships and opportunities, new friends, and the ever so discussed “cuffing season; it’s the perfect occasion to talk about balance. There’s a time for everything, but unfortunately there’s hardly ever enough time to do everything. 

In my first semester at Howard University, I was forced to learn the importance of balance...the hard way, but hopefully you all won’t have to. As a freshman, I wanted to do everything; every club, every org, every party...I didn’t want to miss out on anything. But trying to do everything, soon led to me being able to do almost nothing. I didn’t have time to give my 100% effort to anything I was involved to, so I started slacking off. I spent less time with my friends, boyfriend, my grades didn’t always reflect my academic capability, and I hardly showed up to most of my organization’s meetings. When the semester ended, I felt drained and unaccomplished. I was working hard, but I couldn’t see the investments and it was at that point I decided to try a new “balancing act”. 

This act comes with four simple, but important rules to help you have easier transitions and what I’ve seen to be a more fulfilling life experience. 

Rule #1: PRIORITIZE

It’s all about priorities. Knowing what you want will better assist you in mapping out how you will get there...in some cases this will involve taking the road less traveled, but you get the point. As a student, academics should be at the top of your priority list! Doing this will open doors for networking, career/internship opportunities, and even meeting people with common interests or even struggles. Other necessities such as on or off campus involvement, hanging out with friends, and alike experiences will fall somewhere along this list on the basis of your BETTER judgment.

Rule #2: GOAL SETTING

Goal setting will help you to stay focused. It doesn’t always have to be academic or career oriented, but it should be done. It can be as simple as planning to finish a project by a certain date or making efforts to get a certain amount of sleep per night. 

Rule #3: MAKE A SCHEDULE FOR YOURSELF

Sounds simple enough right? It’s not expected that you stick to this schedule fully, but having one will help you to be more productive. If anything, see it as a friendly reminder to help you avoid wasting time. 

Rule #4: ME-TIME IS ESSENTIAL

Lastly, but probably most importantly, take some time out for yourself. Whether it’s treating yourself to a pedicure, going on a walk, or just listening to music for a few hours; give yourself some time to rest and enjoy life. You deserve it girl! 

If you have any more tips, or find something that helps you keep a nice balance in your life, we’d love to hear it. Stay beautiful, uplifted, and always...CLASSY. 

And remember, ladies, Stay C.L.A.S.S.Y ;)

--Jelicia Diggs