Summer internships are a balancing act, as I have stated multiple times throughout this blog series. My friends are currently planning dungeons and dragons' campaigns and working at their respective jobs. My family is taking a trip to Connecticut in a few days. My significant other is heading to India to see his family. I am currently taking classes and doing internship work.
Now, don’t get me wrong, this internship is extremely accessible. I am able to complete my duties anywhere, at any time, and I’m extremely lucky to be able to do so.
As I am writing this, I am in Saint Petersburg overlooking a gorgeous lake whilst visiting my significant other. This set up is definitely one of the best parts of this internship.
However, I experience a phenomenon abbreviated as FOMO, which stands for “Fear of Missing Out.”
I, like many people, like being with my friends and family and doing various things. I’ve taken up line dancing this summer, which I highly recommend to anyone looking for a new hobby. My friends and I go every Thursday night.
I mention these things because it has affected my ability to complete some of my tasks. I find myself trying to organize files at midnight after being out with friends due to goals I had set for myself in order to be more efficient during the second half of the semester.
If there is one thing that is hard, it’s getting to motivation to say “no, I need to work.” I will admit, I have actively done internship work while waiting in line at Universal Studios Orlando with my brother because I simply wanted to go with him, but knew I needed to be productive.
I say this is warning, as not every internship is the same or can be as flexible as the HERstory project. Please, for your sake, if you decide to take on the mantle of an intern, plan for the need to stay stationary for about two months or so, as you might need to meet with your advisors at some point.
I also would like to take this post to speak about mental health matters, as I have found that many ignore the signs their bodies give in order to pursue what they deem as success.
If you keep pushing on without a break, you will wear yourself down. Weight is harder to handle the longer you carry it without stopping.
The imposter syndrome can get to you. The feeling of not doing enough will get to you.
I am here to tell you that you’re doing a great job. You’re going to continue to do a great job.
Do not let your accomplishments define your self worth.
This goes for internships as well. I was really getting down on myself because of my pacing during the last six weeks. I had thought my work would take 1/3 of the time it actually took, and I was doubting my ability as an intern and as a student.
I have a good support system, so I am doing well now, but it was hard nonetheless, so be wary of that.
Work hard, play hard, and protect your peace.
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