Work/Life and finding the balance:

So today I realized it is already one week into August and I can't believe it's been awhile since my last post. Things truly do fly by, faster and faster as each year goes on, it's like a speeding train with no end in sight, except for the whole end of life thing, but we as young people don't like to think about that, at least those that have a living will, which if you are reading this right now and do not have one, stop reading and get one, ASAP!

To get back on track, life passes you by quickly for one of two reasons (1) because the years are getting shorter (2) you love what you do and enjoy life! I'm thinking that number one isn't proven yet, but had to throw it in there. I was reminded this week of how addicting work can be and also having good friends, family and those that make you happy. I didn't even want to leave work today because I couldn't stand that fact that what I was working on wasn't completely finished at the VA, but the beauty of work is to know when you get to a stopping point and you can pick up where you left off the next day. I would say that is one of the most challenging areas I struggle with and you may too or might already have, how to balance your work with life (family, friends, etc.).

It's an ongoing "struggle" but a good one. Find those that respect your work and also that you would want to make time for. You only have one life to live, so pick people and the type of work you love doing, being around and that makes you happy and motivated to keep at it everyday.

If you're reading this blog I assume you have an interest in Public Health. I hope you have found an area that makes you happy and that you continue to be motivated to learn about and is rewarding.

Ryan

PS - Picture of a summer trip to see some of my undergrad friends. I would have posted a picture from work, but can't take pictures on the VA property, hopefully will get the official Media person the VA campus take a photo of me so you all know I'm doing actual work this summer ;)

Happy Friday - Final Buzz!

Hello all,

When you think you might have reached your limit on workload and capacity to balance everything in your life, there is always an example out there that pushes us to try even harder to accomplish are goals.

The video below was a reminder of when we put our minds to accomplishing a project, it can be done and efficiently! Project management is one the most fascinating topics for me, because it involves fluent communication, along with realistic goals (i.e. budgets, workload, etc.). This week was very busy with exams, projects and quizzes but through it all, I kept reminding myself I can get it done, but it wasn't without the support of classmates, friends and some red bull ;)

One thing grad school and particularly my program has taught me is to self evaluate your strengths, so you know where you excel and also can seek out help in the areas you are not so strong in. It's okay to admit when you don't know something, but I know a lot of times, it is hard to openly disclose those to others. So lesson from the week, admit what you don't know and what you do, it will help ease communication, work and life!

Happy Friday!

Ryan