Stuart Scott famously described a sports play on Sportscenter as, “Cool as the other side of the pillow.” It’s a phrase that has many interpretations. When it’s used to describe a person, it means someone whose calm and collected.
This year has been a life changing one. I’ve had to grow, adjust very quickly, and adjust very strategically. But through it all, I’ve noticed how calm I’ve been. I’ve also noticed how things that used to rattle me, don’t anymore. I’m proud of how much less I stress.
One of the best decisions I’ve made this year was not watching hurricane weather as much. Don’t get me wrong, I 100% prepare and know what’s happening, but the night before Hurricane Milton I watched a movie with popcorn instead of mindlessly watching the news for hours as some of my friends did. I slept in my bathroom as the hurricane neared and slept great! The result… I was calm and happy the whole night. For my friends, they admittedly were stressed and sleepless. Thankfully, we were all safe in our area.
The decision paid off so well that I also used it again on one the most stressful nights in the USA this year: election night. Like the hurricane, I stayed informed and updated throughout the months, weeks, and election night. However, I enjoyed another movie happily while other friends were noticeably stressed. Near midnight with the election still too close to call, I went to bed knowing the next morning whoever elected will affect my life in the near future. I quickly realized the election strongly affected my school and that broke my heart. Life will continue for you to no matter who you voted for.
When other new challenges presented themselves to through our admin, new school problems, or traditions I didn’t know about were carried over from my team’s last school, I didn’t panic or get mad. I stayed collected, learned a lot, and did what was expected and needed of me. When I saw my team stressed over students or parents, you can be rest assured I was there to lend a listening ear.
Through all the changes, I’ve stayed true to myself. I haven’t gotten mad or upset. I’ve learned so much. I’ve been a voice of confidence for those who have struggled and even helped as needed. So… you have two options. You can stop complaining and get to work, or if the situation is completely out of your hands, sit back, put your feet up, pop some popcorn, and watch a movie! Most importantly, stress less!
