Don’t let my smile fool you. When I took these pictures at the beginning of this week, I was stressed out, and that stress did not go away until a few days later. I was feeling overwhelmed because I had a lot on my plate, and I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to handle everything. I had started a school fundraiser for a cause, and I couldn’t stop worrying whether sufficient funds would be raised. I had to memorize lines for a scene that I had to perform in English. Everyone knows how nerve wracking performing in front of people can be. On top of all that, there was loads of work to complete. The list of my anxieties goes on…
In my constant state of worrying, I couldn’t see the end of the week. Honestly, I felt so much pressure and anxiety that I would start to tear up at the thought of my responsibilities. Despite how rough this week was, I am thankful that it happened because it taught me three things.
1) “You Can Do Anything But Not Everything”
I will admit that I am an overachiever. Often, I allow myself to take responsibility or charge of too many things that I am unable to handle all at once without feeling so overwhelmed. I think that it is important and healthy for one to accept that although you are capable of doing something, doing it might not be beneficial for your well being. Part of being an overachiever is that you feel the need to prove your capabilities to others. Your peace of mind should not be at stake because of another’s opinion. You know what you can and cannot handle. You don’t have to do everything. Love yourself.
2) Stop Worrying, Start Praying
In addition to being an overachiever, I tend to worry too much. I know what you’re thinking- having both traits is probably not the best combination, and I completely agree! We worry because we do not know what the future holds. In our angst, we can forget who is in control- God! I turned to prayer throughout this week because there was no way I was going to get through it alone. Leaving your burdens to Christ will lift some weight off of your shoulders because in the midst of the confusion, you can be sure that He is always there for you.
Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Matthew 11:28-30
3) Don’t Forget to Smile 🙂
Has someone ever told you something that you needed to hear even though they had zero knowledge of what you were going through? This happened to me towards the middle of this week. It was first period, and I was already feeling worried about the day. Out of nowhere, my teacher begins to talk about how even life when life is at its worst, you have to remember to smile. His mini lecture made me want to tear up (yup, I’m emotional like that!) because it was a much needed reminder.
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The stress from this week is over, and I feel so relieved. I know that there will be more weeks like this, if not worse, but I just want to tell you that even when it feels like your struggles are everlasting, they will come to an end at some point. At the end of whatever it is you’re facing, life will be a little sweeter. I usually don’t vocalize the problems/challenges I face to many people, but I thought that maybe if I shared my experience, it would help at least one person.
I hope that you have a beautiful weekend, and thank you for reading all of this!
love,
blaze ann
outfit details:
Forever 21 Dress (thrifted- $14!), Forever 21 Button Up, Forever 21 Necklace, Kate Spade Purse, Toms Booties
