Hello everyone! Welcome to a new series called Kim’s Monthly Motivations, written by me, Kimberly Vasta! On the first of every month I will post one of these articles that will serve as an inspiration and motivation for students to start their months off right. We will talk about things such as positive news going on around the world, inspirational quotes, pieces of advice for anyone struggling and just in general some fun things! 

So let’s start off with a quote…

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way that you carry it.”-Lou Holtz

Now, let’s discuss this quote a bit more. I included it at the beginning of the article because I felt like it was appropriate to address the stress that many students will soon face. Though the month starts off with a spring break, which is super exciting, it is no doubt that when school returns the work will come back with full force. With the end of the marking period approaching on April 20th, TCAs, tests, and final grades will begin to enter the parent portal. This could be a stressful time for students, however this quote is getting the idea across that the way we think and go about this work is the real stress factor. If you think negatively you will procrastinate and in turn stress yourself out. In order to do your best, you need to make time for yourself to relax and let go of the negative thinking holding you back. Do some things that will provoke positive thinking instead!

Some ways that I personally like to relax are by…

Meditating

Reading a book

Journaling

Going for a walk

Listening to music

Just going on my phone for a little bit

These simple tasks can really go a long way in clearing your mind. It is definitely worth a try!

Moving on, let’s have some fun and look at a few interesting facts that guarantee a smile. 

First, hunting unicorns is illegal in Michigan. 

Cows moo with different accents, depending on where they live. 

Cotton Candy was invented by a dentist. 

The letter “E” is the most common letter. It appears in 11% of all the English words. (Did you go back and look at all the words that had the letter “e” in them? I did!)

Showers can really spark creativity (looks like it’s time to take a shower now!)

54% of dog owners in America are willing to end a romantic relationship if their dog doesn’t like the person. 

Finally, as we come to a close I will leave you all with a little piece of advice. For this month remember to take breaks, focus on your needs and find things to do that will put you in a more positive mindset! No matter what, the most important person in the world is yourself. Practicing self-love and focusing on yourself is the most crucial thing you can do. Love and take care of your mind and body!

Well, looks like that’s all for today.  I hope everyone has an amazing spring break and enjoys whatever holiday they’re celebrating (if any)! See you next month! 🙂