Bella J.

Photography by Shawn Bulloch

If you're reading this, know that life is meant to be enjoyed—so start enjoying it.

It is so easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of chasing extrinsic success. We lose ourselves in the pursuit of achievements, and in doing so, we hollow out who we are. While it is important to strive for your best, that should never mean neglecting your identity or well-being. Your life is yours and yours alone, so pour color into the parts of yourself that have faded to black and white.

Especially in college, this is the time to flesh out who you are. My freshman year, I was focused on appearing successful by casting my net wide across different clubs to seem involved and accomplished. In this quest for success, I neglected the small parts of myself that actually bring me joy. I am now on a journey to get to know myself again. I picked up my old sport, revisited my childhood career ambition (Olympic ping-pong player), tried painting with watercolors, went on hikes, camped with only a canoe and a backpack, and watched musical theater.

Some of these experiences pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it was in those moments that I grew the most. I may never become an Olympic ping-pong player, but I enjoy my life a little more now (especially since I have a wicked serve). Dare yourself to find what you enjoy. Meet yourself. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how interesting you are—and by how much more fun life becomes.

Bella J., University of Georgia

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