Morgan's Blog

If you're new to my blog, I like to talk about ways I have tried to better my mental well being and how to juggle all of the responsibilities of being a working student. This week I want to talk about social media and ways I have tried to limit my usage. In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded by information. Between news updates, social media, emails, and the never-ending scroll of entertainment, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by digital noise.  Lately, I have been attempting to embrace a more digital minimalism approach. One simple change I made was to limit my exposure to constant news updates, which often left me feeling anxious or disconnected from my own life. For me, one of the best ways to practice digital minimalism is by spending most of my time on Pinterest . Unlike other platforms that can suck me into a spiral of negativity or endless comparisons, Pinterest offers a peaceful space where I can curate my own interests and inspirations. I create boards filled with id...

If you're new to my blog, I like to talk about ways I have tried to better my mental well being and how to juggle all of the responsibilities of being a working student. This week I want to talk about one of my favorite hobbies, which is hiking! As the weather warms up, I've been getting out more often to hike and explore new spots. Hiking has become a great way for me to clear my head and escape the constant buzz of work and school. It’s a simple way to disconnect, get some fresh air, and give my mind a break. Plus, it’s a low-pressure way to fit in physical activity, making it easy to incorporate into my busy schedule. Whether I’m hiking solo with my AirPods in or hitting the trails with friends, each experience offers something different. Solo hikes give me the space to think and unwind, while hiking with others adds a social element that’s also refreshing. Either way, it's an activity that fits into my busy life and helps me reset mentally.  Since I live in Pekin, I oft...

In today’s fast-paced, always-connected world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of notifications, emails, and social media updates. As a college student juggling schoolwork, two jobs, and social commitments, I’ve found that staying connected often means sacrificing my mental clarity and focus. That’s why, recently, I’ve made it a habit to implement digital detoxes—times where I step away from screens and distractions to recharge, refocus, and reconnect with myself. It’s become an essential part of my routine, helping me find some balance and regain control of my time. Disconnecting gives me space to think without feeling pulled in a hundred directions, and it’s been surprisingly effective in improving my productivity. It’s not about completely unplugging but making intentional time for a mental reset. One of the best parts of my digital detox is using my record player. There’s something about putting on a vinyl and listening to the entire album that makes me slow do...

In a world that glorifies hustle culture, taking time to rest can feel like a luxury—or worse, a waste of time. I’ve struggled with "productivity guilt," that nagging feeling that if I’m not constantly doing something useful, I’m falling behind. But over time, I’ve realized that rest isn’t the enemy of productivity, it’s a key part of it. Burnout doesn’t lead to success; it leads to exhaustion and diminished performance. Research shows that taking breaks boosts focus, creativity, and overall efficiency. Instead of seeing rest as slacking off, I now view it as a necessary reset that helps me operate at my best. Success isn’t just about checking off tasks, it’s about leading a fulfilling and sustainable life. When I learned about Denmark’s work-life balance, in my recent trip, it completely shifted my perspective. People there work fewer hours but accomplish just as much because they prioritize quality over quantity. Breaks aren’t seen as indulgent but as necessary for mainta...

There’s something about spring that makes me want to start fresh. As the weather warms up and the days get longer, I feel a natural urge to declutter—both physically and mentally. Just like I go through my closet, sorting through clothes I no longer wear, I’ve been taking the same approach with my mindset, letting go of thoughts and habits that no longer serve me. Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the things I hold onto—whether it’s unnecessary stress, self-doubt, or routines that no longer align with my goals. I realized that just like my space can feel overwhelming when it’s cluttered, my mind feels the same way when I don’t take the time to reset.  I started with my room because I know that a cluttered space can make it harder to focus and feel at ease. I went through my closet, got rid of clothes I hadn’t worn in a year, and reorganized my space to feel more open and functional. As I worked, I realized how much lighter I felt by letting go of things that no longer suited me. It m...

Traveling has always been something I’ve found to be incredibly refreshing, both for my mind and my spirit. Whether it’s a quick getaway to a nearby spot or an international adventure, exploring new places has a way of helping me reset and recharge. The simple act of changing my surroundings offers me a break from daily life and allows me to experience things that boost my mood and mental well-being. One of the most impactful ways travel has benefited my mental health is by giving me a fresh perspective. Stepping outside of my usual environment forces me to look at things from a new angle. It’s like a mental reset button, helping me break away from routine stress and see life in a different light. The change of pace allows me to focus on the present moment, which has helped me reduce anxiety and clear my mind. Last summer, I had the chance to study abroad in Thailand and Singapore. It was my first time traveling out of the country, and when I signed up, I didn’t know anyone else who wa...