Hi again, it’s me, Bea!
I’m coming to you with a special Thanksgiving edition! I wanted share some advice you might need during the holiday. I know life feels hectic right now with the election, the end of the semester and everything in between, but I want to remind you — everything always works out the way it’s meant to.
Whether you’re heading home for Thanksgiving, traveling to a new destination or staying put, here are some of my favorite Thanksgiving tips:
What do I do when I feel like I’ll say something I’ll regret to a family member?
I can relate! I’ve been told that I could talk the ears off a donkey, and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve struggled with what my fifth-grade teacher once called “a lack of a filter.” While it’s great to express yourself, it’s not always the best approach in every situation. Over time, I’ve found journaling to be a lifesaver.
For the longest time, I thought journaling had to be consistent — and I always failed at it. About a year ago, I realized I don’t have to follow any rules. Journaling can mean writing an entry once a month, every day or whenever you feel like it. It’s a space to pour out your thoughts, feelings and frustrations without burdening friends or family. Bonus: it spares you that oversharing regret we’ve all experienced.
If you’re interested, start by picking up a cute journal (I love a good TJ Maxx run) and make it yours. Let it be a safe place for your thoughts. 🙂
What if Thanksgiving with loved ones gets tense?
When it comes to Thanksgiving, the key is to go in with an open mind and a guarded heart. Not everyone will share your opinions, and that’s okay! Different opinions bring new perspectives which is how we grow.
That said, disagreements can happen — especially over the holidays. My best advice? Don’t take the bait if someone tries to start an argument. At the same time, try not to be the one who starts one. You can love and respect others while disagreeing with them. If someone can’t offer you the same respect, don’t let them get under your skin.
It’s hard, but remember: you don’t have to give anyone the power to hurt you.
The semester is almost over — hang in there!
Once we’re back from break, things will get a little wild. We’ll have one last full week of class, then a partial week and then finals! The chaos can feel overwhelming, but I promise, you’ve got this.
Start preparing for finals before the last week of class. No, I’m not saying you should spend Thanksgiving glued to a textbook, but even just a few minutes of studying here and there during break can make a big difference.
And while finals are important, don’t forget about the importance of community. Study Day is a great time to relax, connect and create memories. My memories of Study Day are far more vivid than the grades I’ve gotten on past finals, so don’t miss out!
You’re almost there!
We’re so close to the end of the semester. I have all the faith in the world in you. Take a deep breath, trust yourself, and remember to make time for the things (and people) that matter.
Thanks for tuning in to my second article!
Leave all of your thoughts, questions and concerns here for my next article: bit.ly/3YAokNx
All my love,
XOXO
Bea