A negative mind will never give you a positive life. It's easy to get caught up in the stress and chaos that surrounds you every day, but you cannot let it bring you down. I feel as though the root of a lot of people's unhappiness is that they hold on to negativity. We often allow ourselves to dwell on the bad things going on in our life and we dig ourselves into a very deep hole. Think of all the unnecessary crap you are holding on to right now and how it is hindering your life. By letting go of the things that only hurt you, you are able to make room to let positivity in.
We all have baggage and things we wish we could change, we all have crap that we carry around with us. But who said we have to hold onto it all for the rest of our lives? I've learned that sh*t happens and sometimes life doesn't go the way you want it to, sometimes you're going to get hurt and sometimes you're going to be unhappy. Negative feelings are going to happen, but you don't have to hold on to them. Your mistakes and your struggles do not have to define you. You can simply just let them go.
Letting go is difficult, it's honestly one of the hardest things in the world. Honestly though you are hurting yourself more by holding on to bitterness and resentment. Letting go is different for everyone depending on the situation. Maybe you take all the pictures of your old best friend down, maybe you burn the letters from your ex, maybe you tell yourself every day that it wasn't your fault. Whatever it is that is eating away at you has got to go, because that energy could be better spent working towards happiness.
Surround yourself with good people and good things. Think about all the people and activities in your life and ask yourself if they make you feel good, and if not, let that shit go. There's no sense in keeping toxic people or things in your life. Instead of wasting your time loving someone who will never love you back, put your energy into loving the people who love you unconditionally. Instead of going to the gym even though you hate it, find something that makes working out enjoyable for you. Whatever is making you feel like crap in your life, get rid of it.
You have to be able to put yourself first. I know it's hard, but you deserve it. Inhale whatever it is that makes you glad you are alive and exhale all the sh*tty things that have ever happened to you and the shitty people who did them. Inhale love and positivity and exhale anger and sadness. Welcome positivity into your life and eliminate negativity.
Don't waste another day breathing in toxic air. Take in who and what feels good and f*ck the rest.
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Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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