H.E.A.R.T. Learning Challenges

I love the idea of H.E.A.R.T. and I am excited to try out the learning challenges. By creating a balanced life around the H.E.A.R.T. concepts, a well-rounded life should come easily.

Health/Happiness

Too often, mental health and happiness go unchecked. For many, it is normal to spend money on clothes and personal trainers yet some don't see counselors or guidance as "worth the money." Why does our society put so much emphasis on the exterior rather than what's inside?

I know that gratitude is a huge part of happiness so here is a quote that I took a picture of, which reminds me to always be grateful:

(personal photo)

Which reads:

"I have learned silence from the talkative, 

Toleration from the intolerant, 

And kindness from the unkind; 

Yet strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers."

Empathy

Empathy is essential to a happy society - we must be able to understand and feel what others are going through.

Attention

Especially in this age of distraction, focus and attention are challenges that I specifically face. 

Reading

I know the importance of reading for a sharp mind and vivid imagination yet it is rarely a priority for me. That is why my New Year’s resolution is to read more.

Time

I'll own up to it - I am a procrastinator! I try to get things done early but no matter what it seems like I am just finishing a task as soon as it is due. This causes me to be late often, something that I am trying to work on.

The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali

Source: Wikipedia

I always loved this painting - it can be interpreted in so many different ways! For me, I see time slipping away and how the perception of time can vary from person to person, as from culture to culture. I prefer a more relaxed and non-western time orientation where everything isn't so rushed; however, timeliness is imperative in the United States. 

Carol Dweck's Growth Mindset

Although I didn’t recognize her name at first, I realized instantly that I have previously seen this TED Talk. Carol Dweck has so many great ideas! I actually feel that we have used growth mindset in Epics of India already. For me, the retelling of the story was challenging. I wouldn’t say that creative writing is my forte. Still, I enjoyed the assignment and challenge. 

Source: Twitter

As Carol Dweck mentions in “Make Challenge the New Comfort Zone”, it’s true that often we fret over challenges and hardships when we should be grateful for them! Yoga has especially helped me to train my mind to be grateful for challenges. 

One of my favorite books is Switch On Your Brain by Dr. Caroline Leaf, who believes that by changing your mindset you can change your outcome. 

Source: Pixabay

Dr. Leaf's research is there: Positive thinking leads to growth, while negative thinking hinders growth. This idea is revolutionary and hopeful! I am definitely interested in learning more about the growth mindset this semester.