Chapter 1 - Don't Sweat the Small Stuff
What is one example of “small stuff” you let get to you recently?
I’m not the type of person to get upset over the little things. I know not to let the small stuff upset my daily life because sometimes there's nothing you can do about the small stuff. There are exceptions of course, and one such exception is when I ordered food. I ordered food from postmates but my food never arrived and I spent my money on nothing. I was incredibly hungry and pretty upset that the money I spent on food was spent on nothing instead, but I did let it go and now only use doordash.
I’m not the type of person to get upset over the little things. I know not to let the small stuff upset my daily life because sometimes there's nothing you can do about the small stuff. There are exceptions of course, and one such exception is when I ordered food. I ordered food from postmates but my food never arrived and I spent my money on nothing. I was incredibly hungry and pretty upset that the money I spent on food was spent on nothing instead, but I did let it go and now only use doordash.
Chapter 2 - Make Peace with Imperfection
How does your “ego” distract you?
I have a big ego when it comes to both the positive and negative. When it comes to my positive ego I don’t let it distract me but, instead I let it motivate me to do more. I convince my ego that if I do better than that just proves how great I am. When it comes to my negative ego I try to not let it distract me but in the end it usually does.My thoughts would distract me from getting work done and that tends to be a bit difficult. I certainly feel that having an “ego” so to speak can be beneficial or maleficial depending on your ego and how you manipulate it.
I have a big ego when it comes to both the positive and negative. When it comes to my positive ego I don’t let it distract me but, instead I let it motivate me to do more. I convince my ego that if I do better than that just proves how great I am. When it comes to my negative ego I try to not let it distract me but in the end it usually does.My thoughts would distract me from getting work done and that tends to be a bit difficult. I certainly feel that having an “ego” so to speak can be beneficial or maleficial depending on your ego and how you manipulate it.
Chapter 3 - Let Go of the Idea that Gentle, Relaxed People Can't Be Superachievers
Thoughts : When you have what you want (Inner Peace), you are less distracted by your wants, needs, and desires and concerns. It's thus easier to concentrate, focus, achieve your goals, and give back to others.
What does it mean to be at inner peace? I have my own definition of what inner peace is and it may contradict what other people believe to be tranquil. My own inner peace is chaotic and I accept that wholeheartedly. Inner peace doesn’t mean to be calm and only focus on tasks but to be content with oneself and with that feeling of content to do what needs to be done. Everyone is different so I believe that no one can have the same inner peace as the other. I am an eccentric person with many flaws but I am content with my flaws. I think inner peace means to see both positive and negative and do both positive and negative, to a certain extent. I do what I want while also doing what needs to be done, and to maintain that balance is what I believe the definition of inner peace is.
What does it mean to be at inner peace? I have my own definition of what inner peace is and it may contradict what other people believe to be tranquil. My own inner peace is chaotic and I accept that wholeheartedly. Inner peace doesn’t mean to be calm and only focus on tasks but to be content with oneself and with that feeling of content to do what needs to be done. Everyone is different so I believe that no one can have the same inner peace as the other. I am an eccentric person with many flaws but I am content with my flaws. I think inner peace means to see both positive and negative and do both positive and negative, to a certain extent. I do what I want while also doing what needs to be done, and to maintain that balance is what I believe the definition of inner peace is.
Chapter 4 - Be Aware of the Snowball Effect of Your Thinking
Do you notice how your body and mind feel when your thinking is out of control?
I can notice when my thinking is out of control. It’s the intrusive thoughts that occupy my mind and make me feel stressed. I feel mentally exhausted and just want to rest. Physically I have no motivation and want to rest. When my thinking is out of control I tend to get tired both mentally and physically so in those cases I focus my mind on one specific thing. By doing so I can relax and better myself if only for a bit.
I can notice when my thinking is out of control. It’s the intrusive thoughts that occupy my mind and make me feel stressed. I feel mentally exhausted and just want to rest. Physically I have no motivation and want to rest. When my thinking is out of control I tend to get tired both mentally and physically so in those cases I focus my mind on one specific thing. By doing so I can relax and better myself if only for a bit.
Chapter 5 - Develop Your Compassion
Can you recall a time when you made something “big” and dramatic when in reality it was “small” and not that big of a deal?
I don’t tend to let the small things bother me, and I also don’t tend to make a problem bigger than it is. There are cases where I’ll let the small things pile up and then they turn into something big. A time where I made something “big” would be with family issues but I blame that on small things piling up. I understand that small things shouldn’t bother you so I don’t let them bother me. I can be very straightforward when it comes to things like that.
I don’t tend to let the small things bother me, and I also don’t tend to make a problem bigger than it is. There are cases where I’ll let the small things pile up and then they turn into something big. A time where I made something “big” would be with family issues but I blame that on small things piling up. I understand that small things shouldn’t bother you so I don’t let them bother me. I can be very straightforward when it comes to things like that.
Chapter 6 - Remind Yourself that When You Die, Your "In Basket" Won't be Empty
What does your ‘in basket’ look like? And will it be there tomorrow…
My ’in basket’ looks like school, family, and personal. When I mention those three things I mean issues pertaining to each one. Some days my ‘in basket’ is almost empty and sometimes it’s overflowing. It will be there tomorrow and the day after that and so forth. I don’t let my ‘in basket’ affect my mentality most of the time because I understand that sometimes you need to get work done. However I know that my own inner peace is better than something like an ‘in basket.’
My ’in basket’ looks like school, family, and personal. When I mention those three things I mean issues pertaining to each one. Some days my ‘in basket’ is almost empty and sometimes it’s overflowing. It will be there tomorrow and the day after that and so forth. I don’t let my ‘in basket’ affect my mentality most of the time because I understand that sometimes you need to get work done. However I know that my own inner peace is better than something like an ‘in basket.’
Chapter 7 - Don't Interrupt Others or Finish Their Sentences
Do you believe you are a strong listener or could use some work?
I honestly believe that I am a strong listener. When a person is talking to me I actively listen and engage in the conversation. I could use a bit of work because when I was younger I had the habit of cutting people off but I don’t do that anymore. When it comes to making jokes however then I might interrupt someone because great minds think alike. Besides that I do believe I am a strong listener as I’m the type of person to listen when someone needs to talk.
I honestly believe that I am a strong listener. When a person is talking to me I actively listen and engage in the conversation. I could use a bit of work because when I was younger I had the habit of cutting people off but I don’t do that anymore. When it comes to making jokes however then I might interrupt someone because great minds think alike. Besides that I do believe I am a strong listener as I’m the type of person to listen when someone needs to talk.
Chapter 8 - Do Something Nice for Someone Else - and Don't Tell ANYONE About It
Recall a time you have given, did you expect acknowledgement.
The most recent given I did was for leadership and that was the posters/letters to the staff that were put on the door. I did one for Mrs. Stum and I didn’t expect anything but she said her thanks and that made me really happy. When I give I don’t expect anything; I like the idea of making a person happy in itself. I’m a positive person and get more energy by giving people positive energy, but I will say that a genuine thank you once in a while doesn't feel all that bad.
The most recent given I did was for leadership and that was the posters/letters to the staff that were put on the door. I did one for Mrs. Stum and I didn’t expect anything but she said her thanks and that made me really happy. When I give I don’t expect anything; I like the idea of making a person happy in itself. I’m a positive person and get more energy by giving people positive energy, but I will say that a genuine thank you once in a while doesn't feel all that bad.
Chapter 9 - Let Others Have the Glory
Have you experienced someone else stomping on your story (glory)? How did that make you feel?
I don’t recall a time when someone has stomped on my story. If anything someone has stolen credit for my work even though they had done nothing, if that counts. It made me feel upset and angry, because I worked so hard but only for someone else to take credit for my hard work. This was in the past however and I hardly get truly mad anymore. If someone had stomped in my story in a sense I would probably wonder what my work was for, but then I would ask myself why I feel that way. I would most likely motivate myself to do better.
I don’t recall a time when someone has stomped on my story. If anything someone has stolen credit for my work even though they had done nothing, if that counts. It made me feel upset and angry, because I worked so hard but only for someone else to take credit for my hard work. This was in the past however and I hardly get truly mad anymore. If someone had stomped in my story in a sense I would probably wonder what my work was for, but then I would ask myself why I feel that way. I would most likely motivate myself to do better.
Chapter 10 - Learn to Live in the Present Moment
What are some ways that you work to stay in the present moment?
I'm the type of person that already lived in the present moment. I have hopes for the future and goals but I don't dwell on them because I know it would make me worry. I think about the past so I can learn from it but I don't worry about the past mistakes I have made. I don’t know when it was that my mindset changed but I just learned to accept life for as is. Sometimes you have to live day by day to help calm yourself down. If there was something that helps me stay in the present moment it's music. I sometimes even use music as my concept of time, because the average song is around 3 minutes. Certain music is related to some of my memories and I use that music to think about how I’ve grown. For the future I just think about what type of music will come to be. I listen to music to keep my own tranquility so I guess that helps me stay in the present moment.
I'm the type of person that already lived in the present moment. I have hopes for the future and goals but I don't dwell on them because I know it would make me worry. I think about the past so I can learn from it but I don't worry about the past mistakes I have made. I don’t know when it was that my mindset changed but I just learned to accept life for as is. Sometimes you have to live day by day to help calm yourself down. If there was something that helps me stay in the present moment it's music. I sometimes even use music as my concept of time, because the average song is around 3 minutes. Certain music is related to some of my memories and I use that music to think about how I’ve grown. For the future I just think about what type of music will come to be. I listen to music to keep my own tranquility so I guess that helps me stay in the present moment.
Chapter 11 - Imagine that Everyone Is Enlightened Except You.
Think of a moment when you were frustrated, now look at it as a moment of being taught… What did you learn?
I’ve mentioned before but I hardly ever get mad. I disregarded anger in a sense. However before that I used to have anger issues, which most would find surprising if they hadn't known me before. Thinking back on those times I learned that I was very immature and didn’t know how to express myself. I definitely learned from my past self in a sense. I changed drastically to say the least. In moments of frustration I learned that instead of getting angry to think more deeply. If I get frustrated at a person’s action, then I should think why that person did that action. Of course certain things aren’t justified so in those moments I will allow myself to be frustrated. There is a good time and a bad time to show feelings of frustration.
I’ve mentioned before but I hardly ever get mad. I disregarded anger in a sense. However before that I used to have anger issues, which most would find surprising if they hadn't known me before. Thinking back on those times I learned that I was very immature and didn’t know how to express myself. I definitely learned from my past self in a sense. I changed drastically to say the least. In moments of frustration I learned that instead of getting angry to think more deeply. If I get frustrated at a person’s action, then I should think why that person did that action. Of course certain things aren’t justified so in those moments I will allow myself to be frustrated. There is a good time and a bad time to show feelings of frustration.
Chapter 12 - Let Others Be "Right" Most of the Time
Challenge: the next time you are in a discussion/argument, let the other person be right and take notice on the initial feeling that transpires
To be completely honest I didn’t feel much. I’m not the type that has to be right so this challenge didn’t really affect me. When it comes to arguments that are getting nowhere I acknowledge that we have different opinions and that the other person is right in their own way. If anything I feel like I could be passive aggressive by saying the other person is right. I actually really don’t like this challenge because there’s a line that needs to be drawn.
To be completely honest I didn’t feel much. I’m not the type that has to be right so this challenge didn’t really affect me. When it comes to arguments that are getting nowhere I acknowledge that we have different opinions and that the other person is right in their own way. If anything I feel like I could be passive aggressive by saying the other person is right. I actually really don’t like this challenge because there’s a line that needs to be drawn.
Chapter 13 - Become More Patient
Do you ever have a reflective moment when you realize you are so very small in this vast world and really your ‘drama’ isn’t that big of a deal?
Yes, all the time. The world is vast and the universe even bigger. I’m so small in this world that the things that trouble me don’t really matter, in a sense. My impact can have an affect on other people and those people affect other people etc. But where does that all end up? Of course it’s important to take care of yourself but if you think about the fact that you’re literally a tiny speech of dust in the universe then some of your troubles don’t seem to matter. Who cares if there’s rumors about me, I’m still myself at the end of the day.
Yes, all the time. The world is vast and the universe even bigger. I’m so small in this world that the things that trouble me don’t really matter, in a sense. My impact can have an affect on other people and those people affect other people etc. But where does that all end up? Of course it’s important to take care of yourself but if you think about the fact that you’re literally a tiny speech of dust in the universe then some of your troubles don’t seem to matter. Who cares if there’s rumors about me, I’m still myself at the end of the day.
Chapter 14 - Create "Patience Practice Periods"
Do you have a ‘Mantra’, a statement, that you make to yourself daily or weekly?
Yes but I’m not even sure if it’s a healthy mantra. I always tell myself to do things when I want to. So I mainly go on whims because when am I going to get another chance, if there’s an opportunity I might as well try it. Do what makes you happy, and I live by that. Of course I’ll have to put up with things in life that I have to get through but I can find things that make me happy while doing those things.
Yes but I’m not even sure if it’s a healthy mantra. I always tell myself to do things when I want to. So I mainly go on whims because when am I going to get another chance, if there’s an opportunity I might as well try it. Do what makes you happy, and I live by that. Of course I’ll have to put up with things in life that I have to get through but I can find things that make me happy while doing those things.
Chapter 15 - Be the First One to Act Loving or Reach Out
Have you lost a relationship because something “small” created a “big” divide?
Personally I never lost a relationship with someone because of something small. Most of my relationships in life were only lost because we eventually grew apart. I still appreciate every person that has ever been in my life and am thankful for them. I have given up on relationships with people because of comments they have said. To them it may have been small but to me there are things that shouldn't even be mentioned. I can not stand a person that makes racist or homophobic remarks so I don't consider those relationships lost. I am a very patient person however so I tend to forgive but I won't forget. Also worth mentioning that some things can’t be forgiven. Different people have different meanings for what can be considered “small” or “big., but have never considered a relationship lost.
Personally I never lost a relationship with someone because of something small. Most of my relationships in life were only lost because we eventually grew apart. I still appreciate every person that has ever been in my life and am thankful for them. I have given up on relationships with people because of comments they have said. To them it may have been small but to me there are things that shouldn't even be mentioned. I can not stand a person that makes racist or homophobic remarks so I don't consider those relationships lost. I am a very patient person however so I tend to forgive but I won't forget. Also worth mentioning that some things can’t be forgiven. Different people have different meanings for what can be considered “small” or “big., but have never considered a relationship lost.
Chapter 16 - Ask Yourself the Question, "Will This Matter a Year One?"
What do you hope to do a year from now?
I can't exactly say what will happen a year from now. I hope to be in my senior year of highschool maintaining straight A’s. If I do that I might even be valedictorian, but I’m not the only one that wants to do that. I plan on taking all the AP classes I can possibly fit into my schedule without taking any period off. That way my schedule would have 6 AP classes and Leadership if I get into Leadership and if not then a schedule with all AP classes. I hope to have my learners permit and maybe drivers license a year from now. I hope to make new friends and keep some old ones. It will be my last year of highschool and I intend to live the life I want. I hope to be accepted to certain colleges and go to the college of my choice. I have many hopes for the future and I work hard to achieve those hopes.
I can't exactly say what will happen a year from now. I hope to be in my senior year of highschool maintaining straight A’s. If I do that I might even be valedictorian, but I’m not the only one that wants to do that. I plan on taking all the AP classes I can possibly fit into my schedule without taking any period off. That way my schedule would have 6 AP classes and Leadership if I get into Leadership and if not then a schedule with all AP classes. I hope to have my learners permit and maybe drivers license a year from now. I hope to make new friends and keep some old ones. It will be my last year of highschool and I intend to live the life I want. I hope to be accepted to certain colleges and go to the college of my choice. I have many hopes for the future and I work hard to achieve those hopes.
Chapter 17 - Surrender to the Fact that Life Isn't Fair
Is life meant to be fair? What does that even mean?
Life should be fair. It is an undeniable truth that it isn’t. To be completely honest i don’t even know what it means for life to be fair. Some people were born in certain circumstances that can benefit them while others were born in different circumstances. If I was born the son of a drug lord it wouldn't be an exaggeration that I would want to have the biggest drug cartel and make the most money. If I was the daughter of a famous Hollywood actor it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that I could be a famous actress in the future. If I had enough money like others I wouldn't have to worry about whether or not I can eat. If I wasn’t gay then maybe I wouldn't get weird stares when I act a bit more feminine. If I wasn’t Mexican then maybe people wouldn't look at me differently when I speak Spanish with my mother. Life is different for every individual and it won’t be fair. Different people have a different definition of what it means to be fair. Truthfully I don’t know what it means for life to be fair but I feel that I would want to see what it means for life to be fair.
Life should be fair. It is an undeniable truth that it isn’t. To be completely honest i don’t even know what it means for life to be fair. Some people were born in certain circumstances that can benefit them while others were born in different circumstances. If I was born the son of a drug lord it wouldn't be an exaggeration that I would want to have the biggest drug cartel and make the most money. If I was the daughter of a famous Hollywood actor it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that I could be a famous actress in the future. If I had enough money like others I wouldn't have to worry about whether or not I can eat. If I wasn’t gay then maybe I wouldn't get weird stares when I act a bit more feminine. If I wasn’t Mexican then maybe people wouldn't look at me differently when I speak Spanish with my mother. Life is different for every individual and it won’t be fair. Different people have a different definition of what it means to be fair. Truthfully I don’t know what it means for life to be fair but I feel that I would want to see what it means for life to be fair.
Chapter 18 - Allow Yourself to be Bored
Do you take the time to be bored?
No? I don’t really understand what it means to be bored. I’m a very chill person so if I want to take the time to do nothing then I will do nothing. If I want to do something then I will do something. Of course I’ve complained about being bored before but that never solved anything, so I just went with the flow and relaxed. I don’t really understand when other people say they’re bored and get stressed about it, or when people have to stay busy all the time to not let themselves be bored. I don’t really get it, but I’m Bryan Ochoa and I’ll just chill for a bit.
No? I don’t really understand what it means to be bored. I’m a very chill person so if I want to take the time to do nothing then I will do nothing. If I want to do something then I will do something. Of course I’ve complained about being bored before but that never solved anything, so I just went with the flow and relaxed. I don’t really understand when other people say they’re bored and get stressed about it, or when people have to stay busy all the time to not let themselves be bored. I don’t really get it, but I’m Bryan Ochoa and I’ll just chill for a bit.
Chapter 19 - Lower Your Tolerance to Stress
Have you been taught to believe high stress is a positive thing?
I haven’t been taught that high stress is a positive thing but more so that it is a normal thing. Whenever I was stressed about something when I was younger I would hear, “Just wait until you get older, It gets worse.” At that point I realized that it was just normal to be stressed about something all the time. There are some cases where stress actually motivates me to work. If I’m really stressed about something I want to get it out of the way as quickly as possible. Now I understand that high stress isn’t a normal thing so I tend to chill more often. At this point if someone called me a hippie I don’t think I’d be able to really refute that. Stress isn’t a positive thing and I was never taught that; now I do what I want and live my life.
I haven’t been taught that high stress is a positive thing but more so that it is a normal thing. Whenever I was stressed about something when I was younger I would hear, “Just wait until you get older, It gets worse.” At that point I realized that it was just normal to be stressed about something all the time. There are some cases where stress actually motivates me to work. If I’m really stressed about something I want to get it out of the way as quickly as possible. Now I understand that high stress isn’t a normal thing so I tend to chill more often. At this point if someone called me a hippie I don’t think I’d be able to really refute that. Stress isn’t a positive thing and I was never taught that; now I do what I want and live my life.
Chapter 20 - Once a Week, Write a Heartfelt Letter
When was the last time you sat down and wrote a letter to someone with gratitude?
The last time a wrote a gratitude letter was in Leadership as an assignment. I think I express my gratitude to people often so I never saw the need to actually write a letter to people. I do know that writing a letter to someone with gratitude can make me feel better and the individual feels better. The last time I did it I uses my preferred way of speaking and was very natural because it was to my brother. Speaking formally to a family member would be too weird, but when I did it I cried and felt glad that I expressed the emotions that needed to be let out. If I was to write a letter of gratitude it would probably be outside of my family, and instead, be a friend that I really trust. I love my friends but sometimes I do feel that I need to express my gratitude towards them because they have impacted my life for the better.
The last time a wrote a gratitude letter was in Leadership as an assignment. I think I express my gratitude to people often so I never saw the need to actually write a letter to people. I do know that writing a letter to someone with gratitude can make me feel better and the individual feels better. The last time I did it I uses my preferred way of speaking and was very natural because it was to my brother. Speaking formally to a family member would be too weird, but when I did it I cried and felt glad that I expressed the emotions that needed to be let out. If I was to write a letter of gratitude it would probably be outside of my family, and instead, be a friend that I really trust. I love my friends but sometimes I do feel that I need to express my gratitude towards them because they have impacted my life for the better.
Chapter 21 - Imagine Yourself at Your Own Funeral
If you could change anything right now about your life what would it be?
I am content with the way I am and would rather grow as an individual. That may be just my personality but there is little to nothing I would like to change about myself. However physically I would love to change my physical appearance. The way I want to appear to the world is not yet visible and there are so many customizations I would like to have. The many piercings and tattoos are something that I look forward to in the future but if I could have them right now I would.
I am content with the way I am and would rather grow as an individual. That may be just my personality but there is little to nothing I would like to change about myself. However physically I would love to change my physical appearance. The way I want to appear to the world is not yet visible and there are so many customizations I would like to have. The many piercings and tattoos are something that I look forward to in the future but if I could have them right now I would.
Chapter 22 - Repeat to Yourself “Life Isn’t an Emergency”
Describe a time or moments in your life when you turn something into an emergency
I like to describe myself as a very relaxed person and will hardly ever turn anything into an emergency. I do have exceptions and such exceptions include planning events. Planning an event feels like it needs my undivided attention and a lot of pressure weighs down on me which I then make an emergency. There are also times where I will stress myself out for no reason making me feel like my life is an emergency. I could be taking an incredible nap but if I think for a moment I’m missing an assignment I will wake up. Normally I seek to be a chill individual but I am only human.
I like to describe myself as a very relaxed person and will hardly ever turn anything into an emergency. I do have exceptions and such exceptions include planning events. Planning an event feels like it needs my undivided attention and a lot of pressure weighs down on me which I then make an emergency. There are also times where I will stress myself out for no reason making me feel like my life is an emergency. I could be taking an incredible nap but if I think for a moment I’m missing an assignment I will wake up. Normally I seek to be a chill individual but I am only human.
Chapter 23 - Experiment With your BackBurner
Analyze: “It puts our quieter, softer, and sometimes most intelligent source of thinking to work for us on issues that we have no immediate answer for”
Every individual has a back burner. To some it works effectively and helps them with everyday tasks. To others like myself the back burner turns off randomly and turns into a habit of procrastination. My back burner is something I need to work on but because all the work I procrastinate gets done well I don't prioritize my back burner. As somebody who procrastinates on the daily and continues to get things done on time I will continue to work to the best of my capabilities while also improving my back burner.
Every individual has a back burner. To some it works effectively and helps them with everyday tasks. To others like myself the back burner turns off randomly and turns into a habit of procrastination. My back burner is something I need to work on but because all the work I procrastinate gets done well I don't prioritize my back burner. As somebody who procrastinates on the daily and continues to get things done on time I will continue to work to the best of my capabilities while also improving my back burner.
Chapter 24 - Spend a Moment Every Day Thinking of Someone to Thank
Who is one person you would thank in this moment and why? I challenge you to communicate this gratitude with this person.
Derek Nguyen, is surprisingly a kind hearted person. Though stupid at times, to the people he is fond of he genuienly takes care of them. I am very appreciative of him as he helps me maintain my schedule and actively do my work when I really need it. My mental state has been declining and I am grateful every time he checks up on me. Originally I didn't think I would get along with him but I could not be more wrong. Thank you Derek for being such an awesome ass friend.
Derek Nguyen, is surprisingly a kind hearted person. Though stupid at times, to the people he is fond of he genuienly takes care of them. I am very appreciative of him as he helps me maintain my schedule and actively do my work when I really need it. My mental state has been declining and I am grateful every time he checks up on me. Originally I didn't think I would get along with him but I could not be more wrong. Thank you Derek for being such an awesome ass friend.
Chapter 25 - Smile at Strangers, Look Into their Eyes, and Say Hello
When you read this chapter, regarding eye contact and connect, what are your initial thoughts?
I do believe that people are not able to hold a proper conversation by maintaining eye contact, however I do not regard it as harmful. Yes it is kind to smile at strangers but as someone who does spend a lot of time to be a positive person and a positive influence to random people, it can be draining. A person does not always need to smile at strangers but yes it is kind. One part of me says to smile and say hello, but another part of me says it's okay to not always smile.
I do believe that people are not able to hold a proper conversation by maintaining eye contact, however I do not regard it as harmful. Yes it is kind to smile at strangers but as someone who does spend a lot of time to be a positive person and a positive influence to random people, it can be draining. A person does not always need to smile at strangers but yes it is kind. One part of me says to smile and say hello, but another part of me says it's okay to not always smile.
Chapter 26 - Set Aside Quiet Time, Every Day
When do you find quiet moments in your day, every day, just to be present and quiet? Do you? Or perhaps you don't... explain.
I dont give myself enough time to fully enjoy quiet time. I do give myself quiet moments just to be present in life, especially when I feel overwhelmed, but there comes a point where my own thoughts will overwhelm me. I can not control my thoughts so I do enjoy the moment where I can just sit and relax without thoughts, but my brain will not allow me to fully enjoy it. Instead I overwhelm myself with multiple stimuli to make sure my brain has time to not think so I can just focus on tasks. I find it to work the best for me. As I write this assignment I am listening to music, watching a stream, have a tiktok replaying, and texting friends; I dislike the quiet to be completely honest so I’m grateful for the multiple stimuli that allows me to function.
I dont give myself enough time to fully enjoy quiet time. I do give myself quiet moments just to be present in life, especially when I feel overwhelmed, but there comes a point where my own thoughts will overwhelm me. I can not control my thoughts so I do enjoy the moment where I can just sit and relax without thoughts, but my brain will not allow me to fully enjoy it. Instead I overwhelm myself with multiple stimuli to make sure my brain has time to not think so I can just focus on tasks. I find it to work the best for me. As I write this assignment I am listening to music, watching a stream, have a tiktok replaying, and texting friends; I dislike the quiet to be completely honest so I’m grateful for the multiple stimuli that allows me to function.
Chapter 27 - Imagine the People in Your Life as Tiny Infants & as 100 Year Old Adults
Describe a time when you felt frustrated with someone, but you “let-go” of the situation and moved forward with your life. How did that make you feel?
There have been multiple times where I felt frustrated with someone. The most impactful experience is with my father. The man is a literal man child and has gotten multiple slaps in the face but refuses to learn from them. As his child I was frustrated to have someone like him in my life but I knew that just because I view the world a certain way does not mean other people will. I have accepted the fact that I cannot help him and can only move past everything he does. I have let-go of most of what he says but I think it's perfectly healthy to allow myself to be frustrated and let myself be angry with him. I definitely felt better knowing that his life does not impact mine and that I am free to live my own life as soon as I turn 18.
There have been multiple times where I felt frustrated with someone. The most impactful experience is with my father. The man is a literal man child and has gotten multiple slaps in the face but refuses to learn from them. As his child I was frustrated to have someone like him in my life but I knew that just because I view the world a certain way does not mean other people will. I have accepted the fact that I cannot help him and can only move past everything he does. I have let-go of most of what he says but I think it's perfectly healthy to allow myself to be frustrated and let myself be angry with him. I definitely felt better knowing that his life does not impact mine and that I am free to live my own life as soon as I turn 18.
Chapter 28 - Seek First to Understand
Describe a situation where you didn't seek to understand first. Was there resolution with this conflict?
I am normally the type of person who always listens to the other side of the conversation. However I do have my moments where I get frustrated and refuse to understand what another person is saying. I can’t think of any specific moment because any time it has happened would have been in the far past, but I can say that a conflict that could’ve been easily solved took way too long to resolve. If I sought to understand I definitely could have made little problems become nonexistent problems.
I am normally the type of person who always listens to the other side of the conversation. However I do have my moments where I get frustrated and refuse to understand what another person is saying. I can’t think of any specific moment because any time it has happened would have been in the far past, but I can say that a conflict that could’ve been easily solved took way too long to resolve. If I sought to understand I definitely could have made little problems become nonexistent problems.
Chapter 29 - Become a Better Listener
Who is someone that you can genuinely talk to, that you know will listen to you. Describe this relationship.
Someone I can genuinely talk to is Emma Phelps. She is a person that I have known since kindergarten and have gotten closer to since freshman year. I’ve been able to communicate freely with Emma about all my complaints, which is something I normally never have. Working with one another in Leadership we understand how to achieve our goals and we work well with each other. My friendship with Emma is an amazing one that I will always treasure.
Someone I can genuinely talk to is Emma Phelps. She is a person that I have known since kindergarten and have gotten closer to since freshman year. I’ve been able to communicate freely with Emma about all my complaints, which is something I normally never have. Working with one another in Leadership we understand how to achieve our goals and we work well with each other. My friendship with Emma is an amazing one that I will always treasure.
Chapter 30 - Choose Your Battles Wisely
Describe a time when you "lost your Shhhhhh and in reality it wasn't worth the energy. How did you feel after the confrontation? Could it have gone differently if you didn't sweat the small stuff?
I don’t tend to lose my shit. When I do I always voice that I’m losing my shit. Losing your shhh is honestly too draining so I tend to avoid it and keep my emotions under control. After confronting someone while I was losing my shhh I just felt terrible. Saying words out of anger never feels good because of the repercussions. If I didn’t sweat the small stuff everything could’ve gone differently because I would've been able to handle the situation well.
I don’t tend to lose my shit. When I do I always voice that I’m losing my shit. Losing your shhh is honestly too draining so I tend to avoid it and keep my emotions under control. After confronting someone while I was losing my shhh I just felt terrible. Saying words out of anger never feels good because of the repercussions. If I didn’t sweat the small stuff everything could’ve gone differently because I would've been able to handle the situation well.
Chapter 31 - Become Aware of Your Moods & Don't Allow Yourself to Be Fooled by the Low Ones
Explain a time when you were in a bad mood and how it shaped your day. Vise Versa, explain a time when you were in a great mood and discuss the day you had.
When I was in a bad mood, everyone that talked to me just annoyed me. When I am in a bad mood I dislike social interaction and prefer to be on my own. Work did not get done, instead I distracted myself and only listened to my thoughts. Being in a bad mood turns my normal day into a bad day. When I am in a good mood, I love everyone more than I usually do. I’m normally always in a good mood because that is how my personality is. Being in a good mood I tend to be more motivated to accomplish tasks, however because of my energetic personality I will get sidetracked easily. My good mood turns my normal day into a good day.
When I was in a bad mood, everyone that talked to me just annoyed me. When I am in a bad mood I dislike social interaction and prefer to be on my own. Work did not get done, instead I distracted myself and only listened to my thoughts. Being in a bad mood turns my normal day into a bad day. When I am in a good mood, I love everyone more than I usually do. I’m normally always in a good mood because that is how my personality is. Being in a good mood I tend to be more motivated to accomplish tasks, however because of my energetic personality I will get sidetracked easily. My good mood turns my normal day into a good day.
Chapter 32 - Life is a Test. It is Only a Test
“As an experiment, see if you can apply this idea to something you are forced to deal with” right now. Explain your emotions and logic behind this situation. Can you rise above it?
I genuinely disagree with this idea and dislike it entirely. However I will admit that this dislike comes from the perspective of a stressed student about to face college. Tests are anything but relaxing, they are the reason students stay up at night, the reason many students have breakdowns, and the reason that many students stop showing up to school. Life is not a test that I can retake or do test corrections, life is instead a process. One that nobody has the answer to nor understands how the process works. I like my idea of life, it suits me. I don't like tests.
I genuinely disagree with this idea and dislike it entirely. However I will admit that this dislike comes from the perspective of a stressed student about to face college. Tests are anything but relaxing, they are the reason students stay up at night, the reason many students have breakdowns, and the reason that many students stop showing up to school. Life is not a test that I can retake or do test corrections, life is instead a process. One that nobody has the answer to nor understands how the process works. I like my idea of life, it suits me. I don't like tests.
Chapter 33 - Praise & Blame Are All the Same
You will not please everyone… How does this statement sit with you and why do we tend to focus on the negative rather than the positive?
It's easy to focus on the negative. To sit idle and complain about all the mishaps in the world. But just because it's easy doesn't mean it's unimportant. Focusing on the negative does not need to be bad, instead the negative can be looked upon as a means of what to do for the future. I am aware that I cannot please everyone. I don't try to. I am unapologetically myself; who else would be Bryan Ochoa if not me. I do my own means of living and focus on whatever it is that will get me through my struggles. I will persevere.
It's easy to focus on the negative. To sit idle and complain about all the mishaps in the world. But just because it's easy doesn't mean it's unimportant. Focusing on the negative does not need to be bad, instead the negative can be looked upon as a means of what to do for the future. I am aware that I cannot please everyone. I don't try to. I am unapologetically myself; who else would be Bryan Ochoa if not me. I do my own means of living and focus on whatever it is that will get me through my struggles. I will persevere.
Chapter 34 - Practice Random Acts of Kindness
Describe a time when you complete RAK and how did it make you feel?
I enjoy doing Random Acts of Kindness because it just makes me smile to see others smile. I love complimenting the way people dress, I think of clothing as an expression and always think it amazing when people dress themselves. I also enjoy doing acts of service so acts of kindness go really well with my love language. People deserve to smile and if I can, I’ll make them.
I enjoy doing Random Acts of Kindness because it just makes me smile to see others smile. I love complimenting the way people dress, I think of clothing as an expression and always think it amazing when people dress themselves. I also enjoy doing acts of service so acts of kindness go really well with my love language. People deserve to smile and if I can, I’ll make them.