A warm welcome to new students, staff, and faculty to the HVCC community! Welcome back returning students, staff and faculty!
Change is in the air! As summer gradually gives way to fall, many of us are experiencing life changes as we begin the new semester: a new environment, new friends and colleagues, new professors and course schedules, new work or living situations etc. New information will be coming to you from all directions over the next few days and weeks. The chance of being overwhelmed during this period is fairly high. Here are a few thoughts on how to prepare for this exciting but potentially stressful time:
Identify and/or clarify your values: What are the underlying principles guiding your life and daily decisions? What gives you meaning, wellbeing, balance, and fulfillment? Spend some time coming up with a list of your most important values and principles that have remained relatively unchanged over the course of your life. Try visiting values.com for inspiration and ideas.
Set goals based on your values: Many of us set goals without first identifying the values from which they flow. Maybe some of your goals may change when your values are examined. Others may be clarified and enhanced.
Plan a path to achieve your goals: Having a plan allows you to be more proactive and less reactive. Prioritize these plans in keeping with your values. Planning and prioritizing may help filter out less important information. Even as you plan, be open to new possibilities.
Learn to say no: It is critical to maintaining integrity, balance, and wellbeing.
Take time out: Take time out to relax and reduce stress by doing things you enjoy.
As you begin this new school year, may your deeply held values keep you anchored during this time of change. Have a great semester!
Peace and blessings,
Cylon George, Campus Chaplain.
Published: Mon, 27 Aug 2012 11:15:41 +0000 by c.george