Weekly Elevate Check In #6

Time for a mid-week wellness check-in!

Medical School Update: I took Step 1 last week!!! Due to the immense amount of information on the exam, it was the most challenging test of my career thus far. It was truly a mental struggle, and I had to work through self-doubt and trust in myself and all that I had studied.

I am still waiting for my score, but I am so proud of myself for the dedication and discipline I showed while studying for this exam. I am one step closer to Dr. Laurence!

Highlight of the week: I have truly enjoyed the time with my family. I babysat my baby cousins for a couple of days, and it was so fun - exhausting - but so fun! I already miss my 2-year-old cousin grabbing my hand and having me play “car racing” with him and my 6-month-old cousin’s smile and laughs. I also organized a family photo shoot for my mom, brothers, and me, and it was beautiful! I can’t wait to share the photos! It was just so lovely to be home for 2 weeks and spend quality time with my family.

Low of the week: I have just been dealing with some nerves as I wait for my Step 1 score. I also submitted one application and had a lot of nerves and perfectionism over making sure the application was as well-crafted as I could. I know that the nerves and doubts are normal, I just have to make sure my brain doesn’t focus on them. It is a work in progress - but that is why we are here! Doing the work, checking in with myself, and doing my best to stay well while I chase my dreams.

Last week, I had to take a pause from reading as I was fully focused on Step 1. I enjoyed some post-exam reading this week and finished the book The Neighbor Favor. If you want a romance novel that will have you smiling, rooting for the couple, and kicking your feet with anticipation, this is one to add to your list. The two main characters, Lily and Nick, are so easy to love. They are both a little awkward, which makes them perfect for each other. In the romance story, we see stellar character development as they learn not to let fear define their destinies.

I started my next novel, Maame, while on the train yesterday, and I am already close to finishing. I love this novel already, but I’ll save my further thoughts for my next check-in once I have gotten to the end.

What have you been reading? Let me know!

Something I have found helpful when studying for long hours - as I had to do for Step 1 - is to put on a study-with-me video. I had one on in the background when the vlogger mentioned that she recommended this journaling app. I looked up as she showed the app; it was not only a journal but a way to organize my day and see photos from each day. I have given it a try for the past week, and I love it!

Day One is a free app for your laptop or phone, and I have been journalling every day since I got it. What I love about the daily journal prompts it has for you is that they are so simple yet so thoughtful. As I mentioned, you can also see your photos from each day and add additional notes and journal entries. I enjoy having it on my laptop because as I check my inbox for the morning, I have the icon right next to my Outlook app and I take 5 minutes to journal and am reminded to do it before I start my day

Just wanted to share because I have been enjoying it to much. It is free too. Let me know if you give it a try!

Tomorrow, I fly home to Saint Martin. I am so excited, but as always, it does not feel real until the plane lands. For the next few weeks, I intend to be present and soak up the limited time I have with my family. I hope to relax after a tough year, enjoy some time in the ocean, and make memories with the people I love deeply.

I may be a little less consistent with my posts - but I am reminding myself that it is ok. And I know you all understand.

Until next time

Kye