Goals and Tips for the School Year

September?

How can it already be September already!? I know I say this every month, but August seem to pass so quickly. Really, for me, this whole year has gone by with lightening speed. I always love a new day, week, month or year because it is an opportunity to start fresh. Every morning is. Lamentations 3:23 says that, “His [the Lord’s] mercies are new every morning.”  With the new month beginning, I like to write out little goals that I hope to carry out.  Here are a few of mine.

1. Figure out my leg issues/ healed add mileage

Lately, I have dealt with issues with my right leg.  I will admit, it has been a huge mental struggle and an irritation. I can still run, but my runs are not nearly as enjoyable and are shorter than I want.  I’ve gone to the doctor to get x-rays and to the chiropractor.  I am hoping it will be an ‘easy’ fix, but for now I am focusing on cross training, so I don’t create further damage. Once it clears up I cannot wait to add more mileage.  I miss my long runs like no other.

2. Wake Early Again

Another thing that I miss is rising with the sun.  I am usually a morning person, but these past few weeks I’ve slept through my alarms. There is nothing like rising before anyone else is awake in my house and beating the sun up.  Have it get back to that.

3. Read More

I love to read, but rarely do I create the time for myself to read. Anyone else struggle with this?  I would like to read at least two books this month, if not more. By the way, anybody else read The Kite Runner? Fabulous book. Fabulous movie.  You will cry and you will thank me.

4. Keep studying hard.

Clepping classes isn’t a piece of cake.  Enough said.

Tips for the School Year

Lastly, here are some tips that I have learned that have helped me keep sane during the school year, as well as help me feel good and stay energized.

1. Spend the morning with the Lord

This is the most important activity that I do all day. Spending time with my Savior not only rejuvenates me, but also keeps me focused on what is really important. Keeping Christ at the center of my life not only the best thing I will ever do this week, month or year, but also the most crucial.

2. Early bed time

During the school year, (and the summer), I am a granny.  Bed time has to be early if I want to wake up with the sun. It doesn’t always happen, but I really try.

3. Lots of water

Hydration is key to feeling energized and alert. I usually have a water bottle, along with my coffee with me. Sometimes we can confuse hunger with thirst.  It’s important to notice the difference and fuel accordingly.

4. Try to get in 30 minutes of solid exercise

Exercise. Oh how I love thee! Exercise (specifically running) helps keep me focused, energized and zealous. I don’t run to add days to my life usually, I run to add life to my days.  However, exercise doesn’t have to always been in the form of running.  Find something that you like (swimming, biking, hiking, canoeing, rowing, lifting, walking, dancing, etc.) and stick with it. Find the joy in sweating and stretching yourself.  You’ll thank me later.

5. Eat ‘real’ foods

Fueling your body properly is key to the performance that you get out of your body.  Fuel with real foods, whole foods. Focus on lots of protein, fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbs.  << Winning combo.

6. Treat yourself

Although it is important to eat as good as you can, don’t forget to treat yourself.  Life is boring with sprinkles and sweet treats every now and then. Moderation is key.

7. Walk (make most of the two legs you have)

As much as you can, walk to places that are easy to get to. God made us with automatic transportation, use it. It feels great.  Also, instead of crashing on the couch after dinner, go out for a walk around the neighborhood.  It is a great way to have family/sibling time and yet getting some fresh air and exercise.

8. Cherish the moments

Remember to slow down when life get’s busy and cherish the moments you have with friends and family. I often forget how fast life goes.  I have to try to remind myself not to take things for granted and to take joy in the simple joys of life.

9. Bless others

Sometimes, the biggest blessings I receive are when I choose to bless others. One of my favorite ways to do this is to ding-dong ditch people with baked goods. When you give, you really receive so much more.

Happy September friends!

-Bethany