Morgan's Blog

 When you work full-time, go to school full-time, and manage a part-time internship—plus try to maintain a social life—it can feel like you're always rushing from one obligation to the next. For a while, I didn’t even realize I was missing something essential: space for myself. Not another to-do list or assignment, but a place where I could just do whatever.   One day while scrolling through TikTok, I came across a video of a girl talking about something she called a “third space.” She described it as a place separate from work, home, or school—a spot that exists outside the usual responsibilities and pressure. It’s not about being productive or checking something off a list; it’s just a space where you can simply be without adding more to your plate. Since then, I’ve started carving out these little third spaces in my routine. For me, it’s a local coffee shop like Zion or CXT, where I can sit with a latte and a sweet treat, maybe read or get some light work done, without...

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...