WORD OF THE YEAR: REIGN

The word that I've chosen for this year is Reign. 2015 was all about learning and growing. Last year was really the first time I felt like I had a sense of... identity in a sense. Like I really came to grow into my self that year and I went through so many life changing things. It was a growing year truly and this year is all about my shine. 

I have lots of things that i've been planning for years and this year is finally the time that I set things in motion. I graduate high school, get to work on some exciting projects, and move onto the next chapter of my life. 

This is my year to reign.

I BOUGHT SMELL GOODS

I have discovered Lush and it's the greatest place I have ever been! It in all honesty smells like all of my hopes and dreams. The only location I knew of in the city shut down but luckily I found a new one on 34th street when I was out with Grandma. 

The atmosphere was so relaxing and everyone who worked there was so nice and lovely- hi Jaleesa!

I ended up leaving with the Breath of Fresh Air Toner Water which is so extremely true to name and two soaps Snowcake and Porridge (the latter being free thanks to their offer right now).

So glad to finally say I am no longer a Lush Virgin.

What are you loving from Lush?

KEEPING YOUR SH*T TOGETHER

I am smack dab in the center of this storm called "responsibilities". Senior year is in no way easy (yet). I'm just waiting for those acceptance letters to start rolling in so that my "seniority's" can begin.

Until though, here's just a few ways i've learned to manage College Apps, Extracurriculars, APs, and the daily crazies of life.

Keep a Planner!

Don't even read any of the other crapI write next, KEEP A PLANNER FOR THE LOVE OF GOD! This is pretty much the only the thing that has kept me from breaking down everyday. I do a lot of extracurriculars and management stuff so it's super important that I remember all of my important dates and exams and assignments by writing it all down. I create my own Bullet Journal out of this really simple Muji notebook and its perfect for me to customize to my liking. If paper isn't your thing, you could totally download a planner app on your phone.

Have a Routine

When you have a routine for the mornings you notice that life gets a bit easier. It's like moving on autopilot! I have to be at dance practice every morning by 7:30 so it's great having a routine so i'm never running around like a chicken with no head. You're alarm is seriously your best friend!

Find Your Area

After coming home from school or work it's good to have a set area where you could unpack and really knock out any other work you have to do. I like to keep my desk area very simple with just the essentials and a few bits of inspiration for when i'm in a bit of a funk.

Slow Down!!

Between dance and writing and coaching debate and studying for AP and applying to colleges and keeping track of friends and entertaining le boy, I very often forget to breath (and eat)! Remember to slow down sometimes and just take a deep breath. Grab a bite to eat, read a book, indulge in the Studyblr community of Tumblr (GUILTY AS CHARGED) and then you'll recharged and ready to jump back into action.

Atira xx