300 Things to Make Me Happy Part 3

Do something nostalgic. Take some time to enjoy the things from the past that make you smile

What do you think of when you hear the word “nostalgic”?I think of my time at Scranton, freshmen year with Moon Squad- karaoke nights, homework in the lounge, playing games of pool, meeting the McMynes, being adopted by them, Friendsgiving with Katie’s butter and sugar icing and SKyler’s present. My two besties Alice and Jake. 

What nostalgic thing did you do and how did it make you feel?

I looked at photographs. Sophomore year I’d take pictures of me in the mirror in different outfits. Freshmen year I’d pose in front of the pool table before the epic parties I attended. 

Don’t overload yourself.  Sometimes we have to say “no” to people when our schedules are full including ourselves. Lighten your load by avoiding an overpacked day.

What can you delete from your schedule to give yourself some more time?

I’m not going to write opinion essays. Leave that to Roxane Gays of the world and all their hate. I want to write stories, personal essays, poetry books and movie essays. I also have so many projects its stacking up like that deadly bookstore in Nyack. I’m making a scrapbook for Wendy. I had a great idea I could make book cards for our book club: three for each book and people can take their top three. I think honestly I’m a genius. Of course that’s alot more work for me but I’m down for it.

Do you over-committ yourself? If so, how can you prevent it?

Um yes. Lately my weekends have been so crowded that I’ve had to give up some of my Justin time (ex. Friday I had a sleepover with —---- and —---- and Sunday I’m going to the Sarah Lawrence poetry festival). Later date: Still so busy. I’m involved with knitting, book clubs, poetry slams, amount of exercise, socializing with friends, making plans with Justin not to mention my crafting and writing. That’s alot! If I had the choice I’d always stay busy. I just have to  keep it from overwhelming me. I carve out time to myself to journal in the mornings and read at night. And God help me, I protect that time.

Don’t get sucked in! Avoid social media drama and clickbait news. Online ugliness can really affect your mood. Spend time in positive spaces and surround yourself with good vibes.

What online things can easily stress you out?

Because of past trauma I get stressed out easily if men approach me online. Even if they are my age (usually they are creepy and old) I get very nervous and sometimes have panic attacks.

How can you navigate drama offline?

I don’t really have much drama now that I’m almost thirty years old. The people I choose to associate with know not to throw temper tantrums or start rumors.