Stop Worrying so Much - Jodi Kirkner

A phrase I often utter to Hye Jee, this piece of advice was something I could always preach, but never practice: Don't worry so much.

After years of constantly telling Hye Jee not to be so stressed and not to worry about every little thing, I realized that I needed to do exactly the same thing. From the moment I tried caring just a little less about everything others told me was important, I became noticeably happier. I focused more on myself and less on schoolwork and whatever other people were doing. I don't know why it took me until sophomore year to realize it, but life really just isn't about what's next. It's about enjoying the moments and experiences that you have, and overall about being happy. 

Whenever I find myself being too stressed, too worried, or just generally "extra" about something, I have to take a minute to think about the positive side, and put everything into perspective. My Physics test next hour will not determine what college I go to our the outlook of my life. It's one single grade that I'll be rid of forever the second I graduate. 

Now, I'm not saying I don't care, by any means. I'm just saying that giving everything only it's fair share of my attention has helped me be a more relaxed and positive person in the long run,