Gradness Madness

What I’m pondering today: what sustains life and health?

Fresh air.  Lots of clean water.  Adequate sleep.  Nutritious food.  Exercising the body.  Exercising the mind in positive ways.  Happiness.

I’m thinking of how my life in grad school has often gone off the rails, and it’s usually when I neglect these areas.  I stay cooped up inside.  I drink coffee and soft drinks.  I only sleep a few hours a night.  I eat junk.  The only exercise I get, many days, is running around like a chicken with my head cut off because I’m behind schedule due to poor time management.  I allow my mind to dwell on fears, rather than positive things.  I do things that don’t add to my happiness.

This is an ongoing struggle for me, as it is for many perfectionists (we tend to have a martyr complex), but I’m making improvements.  I got eight full hours of sleep last night, and I feel great.  I’m on my way to the gym to do some exercise.  I’m drinking water instead of soda.  I’m eating well today.  Just for today, one day, I can do these things, then do them again tomorrow.

I’m sick of being overtired, undernourished, behind schedule.  The days are speeding by, and this is my life.  I owe it to myself, and those who love me, to get a handle on things.

Eat, drink, pray, love, sleep, and fix your mind on good things today.  That’s my wish for both of us.

- Flynn