Every morning, the town comes to life. The students get ready for their busy days. Most are on their phones just chatting away. I can’t help but wonder if they are truly okay? It’s okay to not be okay. Just breathe. Take in the world around you. Enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful leaves. Try to accomplish one thing. If you make your bed, you will have accomplished one thing. You may say you don’t have time to make your bed or enjoy the breeze that rustles the leaves. So, wake up five minutes earlier and make your bed. Go outside and feel the breeze as it rustles the auburn leaves. Appreciate the world as it tries to ease your anxieties. Take life one day at a time and just breathe. 

The world can be very crazy. After the week we’ve just had, we could all use a break. Here’s a few tips on being mindful:

1. Remember, others may not think the same way you do, and that’s okay. Everyone is allowed to have their own opinion.
2. You don’t know what someone else has going on in their life. So, be nice to everyone.
3. If you are having a bad day, try meditation. You can find mindful meditations on YouTube. Here’s a few: Daily Calm | 10 Minute Mindfulness Meditation | Be Present 5 Minute Mindfulness Meditation 10 Minute Guided Meditation for Becoming More Mindful.
4. Just write down what you are feeling. It doesn’t have to be a diary. Just get your feelings out.
5. If you see someone who seems down, talk to them. Lane Love, GSU Student, said, “I ask them a stupid question. There have been many times I’ve walked up to people and asked, ‘Do you know your shoes are untied?’ and they’re not untied. They look down, then look up at me like, ‘What?’ but it starts a conversation.”
6. Give your feelings a color and scribble all over a piece of paper.
7. Go outside and listen to the world around you. Write down everything you see, hear, and smell.
8. Read a good book. Just get a book and find a comfy, quiet place to read. Highlight what resonates with you.
9. Watch a funny movie. Grab some snacks and some friends and watch a movie.
10. Last but not least, talk to someone. There are counselors on campus you can talk to. They are here to help you. You can also talk to someone you trust.

When asked what mindfulness means to him, Love said, “You have to understand that when it boils down to it, you can either take everything for granted or you can notice what you have and appreciate it.” When asked how he’s being mindful, Lane said, “I’m engaging the campus community with my frat to spread mindfulness and positive attitudes.” So, spread positivity and love everywhere you go, and be thankful for what you have.