Hi! My name is Shae Johnston! I’m an AC ’18 and the Director of Academic Affairs for Gamma Iota! Currently, I’m finishing up my junior year as a health science major on the pre-PA track. Life for me right now is extremely busy! On top of studying for finals, I am beginning a new job at Shand’s hospital, teaching cycle classes at UF, and doing my best to spend as much time as possible with my friends before we leave for summer. I know this is one of the busiest times of the year for us, so I hope this post serves as a little encouragement to push through these last few weeks and ace those finals! Self-motivation, self-care, and daily affirmations have been key for me in tackling these last few busy weeks. I hope to pass on some tangible tips on how to pursue those academic goals in the midst of our crazy lives.
My self-motivation recently has stemmed from my overall career and academic goals. When I am exhausted or feeling burnt out from work or extracurriculars, I often pause and remind myself of my end goal and how hard I have worked to get this far. I encourage you to keep your end goals in mind and use these to motivate and inspire you to push through. Whether it be studying that extra hour or finishing up that paper, I promise you won’t regret it.
Self-care is also a must for me, and it should be for you too! Our busy schedules can be exhausting on our bodies, and it is important to participate in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. My two favorite ways to relax are spending time outside or watching my favorite Netflix sitcoms. By giving my brain a much-needed break, I find that I am so much more productive when I need to be! I hope that next time you are feeling overwhelmed or burnt out you will pause and give yourself 30 minutes of “me time”.
I am also a sucker for quotes and affirmations as a quick way to pause and motivate myself. Some of my favorite reminders are:
A little progress each day adds up to big results.
Don’t stop until you are proud!
Will it be easy? Nope. Will it be worth it? Absolutely.
What she tackles, she conquers.
Never forget how wildly capable you are.
Be proud of how hard you’re trying.
I hope you will use these as quick motivators when things get tough. You’ve got this!
My last tip is something we can never forget. Lean on your ADPi sisters and encourage each other! I can’t tell you how many times ADPi dinners have completely shifted my mood from stressed to joyful. During this tough season, I hope that you will ask for help if you need it and remember not to worry about things you can’t control. I am so proud of you and am cheering you on every step of the way!
Love,
Shae
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