Hi. I'm Alexandra. Or, for short, Alex.
An old college colleague once advised me to start a blog and get my ideas out there. Fast forward few years later, whelp, here I am typing away on this first post of a new blog (one of many I've barely managed to keep up to date).
Tomorrow is the date of my Registered Dietitian exam. It has been a longgg time coming, but I finally committed to tackle this beast! I'm doing my best to keep my mind at ease and focus.
To successfully prepare for the test, I took up helpful advice from the writers of the Breeding & Associates review book. One point that has been tremendously helpful in developing a good strategy is addressed below:
-Rather than study heavily for a set time like 3 hours straight through, divide a study session into six 30 minute sessions. The brain needs time to absorb the material reviewed, process it, and then store for later use.
In addition to the above tip, I searched for nifty activities to do during my "mental" breaks. I have been reviewing here and there for the past one or two months. In the beginning, Netflix was my sidekick and "distraction" from reading information that I learned all from undergrad nutrition classes. However, I noticed that Netflix only gave me temporary satisfaction and pleasure. The relaxation or peace that I was really seeking away from the stress of studying was not there.
I was stumped. What the hell, life? Haha.
Noticing and appreciating the small things are key to gaining one's, if I may say, sanity back. In simple terms, it's a way of giving yourself a reality check. In contrast to just directing my attention on watching series like Pablo Escobar or The Great British Baking Show on Netflix, I filled my time with doing simple yet nourishing and fulfilling activities as simple as drawing for 20 or 30 minutes. Other activities included shopping at nearby arts and crafts stores to purchase Christmas sales.
Taking a step back, and looking at the big picture has helped me clear away a lot of noise and junk out of my line of vision. I've come to appreciate what really matters in life. Family. Friends. Music. Art. And many more. The small and simple things are what truly give us joy in life.
In closing, sometimes a kind smile is a real charm and remedy during times of stress. During Christmas shopping at Hobby Lobby this morning, I switched lanes in the checkout aisle, following a middle aged woman who bought a red wired bowl. One of the managers assisted with the lines and he greeted me with a calm "hello" and smile. His tone and attitude set a positive social interaction and made my trip to the store a positive memory.
Thanks for reading! Until next time.
Alex - The Inquisitor
