10 things I wish I'd known 10 years ago
As I sit here in my cosy leapord-print dressing-gown, sipping on a green tea, and looking out to the bright blue sunny skies of Edinburgh... I finally feel as though things are starting to fall into place.
Life so far has been one rocky roller coaster, and the ride is far from over yet (and I don't think it ever will be!). But I continue to learn things along the way, which I’d like to share with you.
Note: You may have heard this all before, and it may not work for you, but read along!SLEEP
Sleep well and indulge in a siesta once in a while.
After three years at Uni and a year working in a luxury boutique hotel in Canada, I’ve discovered that staying up late and pulling ‘all-nighters’ are ultimately ineffective. Sleep is clearly imperative to overall daily performance and without it, I can’t function properly and make stupid mistakes easily. At least eight hours is key remaining focused and productive every day, particularly the older you get!
BREAK
I used to think doing the same thing uninterrupted would help me focus. However, going for a walk in the fresh air or listening to my favourite song really help. I look at these like a little treat after a chunk of work is complete, which helps sustain energy throughout a busy day.
LEARN
Break things down and learn gradually
I learnt at Brookes that cramming did not work at all for for me. I learn better when the information is placed into my brain repetitively, over a steady period of time. Therefore, I´ve found the best way to build and retain knowledge is by learning a little bit every day.
I also used to think that studying in a busy library with electro music blasting in my ears was a good way to study. But it wasn’t until my friend Roza in final year encouraged me to study in complete silence with limited distractions, and it really worked for me! A BIG thanks to her.
FUEL
Treat your body with good food and drink.
I remember in 1st year living off multiple red bulls, haribos and chocolate to get through long shifts at work or study marathons in the library. Yes of course, they tasted awesome, but the sugar rush didn’t last and ended up giving me headaches.
Anyone that knows me will say I swear by two phenomenal items I can’t go one day without: green tea and bananas. They’re packed with energy and make me feel great; I honestly couldn’t live without these goodies now. Lot’s of water each day is also super vital to keeping your body and mind hydrated and fresh.
MOVE
Dance, walk, skip wherever and whenever possible.
In my final year, I discovered the power of exercise. Going to the gym not only helps me switch-off, but gives me an incredible boost of energy afterwards. Although I don't always feel like it, I try to push myself and 'just do it', as my boyfriend keeps saying. I remember how amazing that ‘high’ after-gym feeling is! Exercising also helps me sleep like a baby each night.
PREPARE
I was always the type of person who thought I could just ‘wing-it’ and everything would be ok. I’d leave things until the last minute, cram information in my brain, and then try to get away with it. However, this technique didn’t last as the work got more challenging and demanding throughout Uni. Therefore I now see that success is built on preparation, which leads to the next step...
ORGANISE
Dot those i’s and cross those t’s
I swear by lists. Writing everything down keeps me on track, and it feels good to tick off each task one by one! There are many techniques to keeping better organised, which has taken me years of failures to realise, but it feels awesome when everything is under control.
SMILE
Laughter is the best medicine
Don’t forget to have some 'me' time, hang out with friends, and enjoy your student social life while you can! Mine went by in a flash and I miss it every day. I also realised that my mood can influence my productivity levels, and those around me. Happiness is contagious, so don’t forget to do what makes you smile often. Smile and the whole world smiles with you.
TALK
I have a bad habit of blocking everyone out when I’m trying to focus. If I’m busy, stressed, or studying, I rarely talk to family, friends or my boyfriend. I feel like I don’t want to bother them with my problems, or get distracted from my goal. While I find this works for a while, I realise this breaks down the connection/bond I have with them even more. I now see that even just a little text or five minute conversation picks me up and gives me motivation. So, talk more and try not seclude yourself in a little bubble!
BELIEVE
I went through quite a few phases where I doubted my abilities (and still do sometimes to be honest). I think I get scared of a challenge - the uncertainty, the pressure, the work-load - and therefore tell myself I can’t do it.
At the beginning of my final year, I had a harsh reality check. I realised I’d spent tonnes of money and time on my degree, but never really gave my all. After talking with my friends, family, boyfriend and Head of Department, I did everything in my power to work hard and achieve my goals.
Remember - there is always time to turn things around. It’s never too late to make that change and believe you can do anything you set your mind to.
Remember - there is always time to turn things around. It’s never too late to make that change and believe you can do anything you set your mind to.
So, there you have it - my 10 things I wish I’d known 10 years ago. These may seem a little cliched, and different things work for different people, but I continuously try to follow these whenever I feel I’m going off-track.
Thanks for reading, and don't stop fighting for what you want!
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