Same Resolutions Every Year? Expectations & Disappointment

Dimming Your Light So Other People Can Shine

 If you regularly have to play stupid or dumb so that others can feel better about themselves you're not helping those people to grow and you're doing a disservice to yourself. Don't get lost in trying to change who you are for the other person (or trying to change the other person to accept who you are).You can't really blame the people who are mad at you or feel threatened by you because it's simply a reflection of their insecurities or their small-mindedness. Sometimes playing dumb is a strategy for people so that people underestimate you and it can work out in your favor but I'm talking about if you have to act this way all the time. I even think it's ungrateful behavior to do this sometimes because you're not displaying gratitude for the gifts and talents that you have. Sometimes you have to find a different environment where people can accept your brilliance or where you can really be challenged and shine.The same goes for a boy, either find someone who is not threatened by your intelligence and will support you or find someone who will challenge you on your level.

Also, we've all been on the opposite side of this where we feel threatened or intimidated by someone else and it makes us feel insecure. It's important to recognize how you feel but rather than being mad at that person for knowing something you don't or having something you can't have, take it as an opportunity to learn from them.

There's a fabulous part in her book, A Return to Love, page 190 by Marianne Williamson:
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.

Back To School

Ok the school year is picking back up ladies and here are five quick tips to start off the year on a good note:

1) Review your schedule of classes and set academic goals accordingly. Starting with a GPA goal that is a little higher than the GPA you ended up with last year is usually a good idea. Thinking in terms of semesters also helps to make the year seem less overwhelming. Make sure you set your priorities for the year  and figure out what is more deserving of your time this year.

2) Back to School Shopping! Be a smart shopper and try purchasing some items on-line, through discount stores like Rugged Warehouse or Marshall's, and check out thrift stores for accessories. This is also a good time to clean out your closet and donate to charities like www.IvorianHope.org

3) Based on your academic schedule, see if you have some room to fit in extra-curricular activities this year where you can learn something new, socialize, or do some community service. If your parents allow you, this could be a good time to get a head start on finding part-time jobs for winter break.

4) Scholarships! Definitely start browsing the internet and check out some search engines like Fastweb.com to see if you qualify for any scholarships this year based on your grade level and be sure to take note of any important deadlines. If you're a senior and you will be filling out the FAFSA form for college financial aid, be sure to take note of when your counselor will be holding sessions to discuss college preparation.

5) Enjoy your last bits of summer. Get as much rest as you can so that you can be focused and positive. Try to get mentally prepared for the year ahead.

Have a great year!