What I Learned in July

Ah, July. The month of Independence Day parties, illegal fireworks, swimming, speech and debate camps, and wishing I had my license. This month went by really fast, but I did learn (or re-learn) a few things in its 31 days.

1. Calendars are more fun when they're pretty

I got a new weekly/monthly planner the other day, and if it weren't for the lovely green and blue cover, I probably wouldn't ever use it. But since it does have a lovely green and blue cover (and interior), planning things months ahead may become a little more common.

2. Journaling actually helps

No, I don't write in meticulous detail about everything I did that day. That would be boring. But I do write how I feel about things, which keeps me from imploding. When you write, it doesn't have to be extensively descriptive. Just get your thoughts down and you'll feel better.

3. Panic doesn't help

But I still panic. And it doesn't help. Don't panic. It just stresses you out and makes everything worse which makes you panic even more.

4. Sometime the answer is "not right now"

And that can be the hardest.

5. All great things take risk

Letting thoughts like "it might not work," or "they won't understand," or "what if I'm wrong?" control your actions will lead to a life of mediocrity and week-long Netflix marathons. If that's what you want to do with your life, then have fun. But don't let fear be the reason you're there.

6. Writing is the answer to writer's block

Sitting around not writing will not fix plot holes, get page views, or finish a novel by Christmas. You may need to take a break sometimes, but don't take breaks just so you can marathon Call the Midwife and Phineas and Ferb (two very different, very good shows). Take a walk without any distractions. No music, phone, etc. Think about what could happen, then go home and write it.

7. It's okay to hurt...

It doesn't mean you're not strong. It doesn't mean you're a bad friend. It doesn't mean you'll never recover or that you did something wrong. It's okay to feel confused, lonely, heartbroken, and angry.

8. ...But don't stay there.

Once you acknowledge your pain, find out what's causing it and work to overcome it. You don't have to get better right away. Sometimes it's a process, and that's okay. You may need to make tough decisions. Don't shy away from the hard things because that's where beautiful things come from.

***

That's it for my (belated) July blog post. Summer is ending soon (what how did that happen what do I do now I have to write a speech and a case what the why?)  Unfortunately, summer weather here in Texas will last until late September. Then it's all sweaters and blankets and fuzzy socks and that's what's keeping me going right now. August is already turning into a month where I'm learning a lot. Maybe I'll post on time next month. ;) And that's what's up.

-HG