Use the Rush to Your Advantage

The scramble at the end of the day. Traffic. Road rage. Crowded parking lots. Wouldn't it be great to leave school with no driving stress, whenever you decide to leave?


I arrive at school at 6:45 in the morning. I get a good parking spot, and can easily take my time to get to class. I am there when my friends arrive. If I am running late one day, I know that I still have plenty of time to get there.


But the afternoon is another story. School ends for me at 2:10.

Go With the Flow

There are so many things in life that we cannot control. These things can cause us frustration, stress, and anger. The best way to let ourselves not be affected by uncontrollable scenarios is to learn to go with the flow.

Your day can be going as smooth as ever, but the tiniest thing that happens can ruin it. Life has its twists and turns, and they can frustrate you. You get angry, rush through things, and the change of what normally happens creates stress.

If you go with the flow of life, it will become easier. Take what life throws at you. Instead of being irrational and getting mad, go with the flow. Accept the change, whether its temporary or permanent, and create the best of what happens.

Everyone has their own life. Other people's choices can affect yours. Instead of getting angry, do something constructive about it. You can influence a lot, but many things are just uncontrollable. 

Remember to breathe, and to laugh. Looking at life calmly and with a positive attitude helps when you get something thrown your way. Enjoy the flow of life and accept change.

How to: Do Nothing

I know every teenager has used the expression "Nothing" when asked what they are doing, at least once.

Doing nothing is actually incredible. It is the most simple way to relax. Sure, doing nothing can waste time, but it doesn't have to. It's an art. Actually, doing nothing helps you be more productive.

Baby Steps
First, focus on 5 minutes. Preferably every day, maybe a couple times a day. Practice in a safe place: a bedroom, a man-cave, or even a living room. Cut out all distractions. Turn off the radio, your phone, an mp3 player, everything. And do NOT turn that television on! It helps me to be laying down, or sitting reclined. Close your eyes, and do nothing.

Breathe
Don't forget this! Breathing is the best place to start when doing nothing. Breathe slowly, and feel your breath. In through the nose, out through the nose. Notice your lungs filling and emptying. Feel the breath in your body. Don't think about anything. Just breathing. Just relaxing. Just nothing.

Work up to 20 minutes, or even half an hour. Doing nothing every day helps clear your mind, and frees your attention. If you need to schedule your do nothing time, then by all means do so. Doing nothing gives you more time to focus on the task at hand.

You will become relaxed, and ready to let the day flow with ease.