What High School Can Teach Us About Who We’re Becoming (Even as Adults)

This morning, I was driving my daughter to school when I asked her a simple question:
“What have you learned after two years of high school?”

She paused for a moment. I could tell she was thinking deeper than just math lessons and class periods. And it got me thinking, too.

high school students sitting in a classroom

When I look back on my own high school years, I realize just how much they shaped the woman I am today—not because I peaked in high school (definitely not), but because it was the first time I started asking myself big questions.
Who am I?
What kind of people do I like to be around?
How do I learn best?
What excites me or drains me?

Even though I didn’t have all the answers at 15 or 17, the experiences I had then planted seeds I’m still learning from in my 40s.

🎭 Freshman Friends Aren’t Always Senior Friends

One of the biggest lessons I shared with my daughter was this:
The friends you start with aren’t always the ones you finish with.
And that’s okay.

As we grow, we outgrow. We shift. We discover that some connections were for a season, not a lifetime—and there’s no shame in that.
That same truth applies in adulthood.
Your 20s might have been full of brunch squads, your 30s about motherhood circles or work friends, and now? In your 40s? You may be craving quiet connection, meaningful sisterhood, or just a safe space to be fully yourself.

🧠 How You Learn = How You Work

High school also helped me learn how I learn—and that understanding followed me right into adulthood.

Some of us thrive in structure, others in creativity. Some need quiet, others need collaboration. Knowing your learning style early on can help you in your career later.
For example, I realized I process things better when I write them out—hello journaling, blog posts, and lists. That learning tool became a life tool. GROWTH CAN LOOK LIKE…

So if you’re still trying to figure out what kind of work energizes you or why certain jobs leave you drained, go back to basics.
Ask: What environments did I learn best in? What topics lit me up then, and what still does now?

🤝 Learning About People Helps You Learn About Yourself

High school is often the first place we meet all kinds of people—different backgrounds, beliefs, energies, ambitions.

Some people challenge us, some inspire us, some teach us who we never want to be.
As adults, we keep learning those lessons.
And honestly? Some of us are still carrying around “high school energy” in our grown-up relationships: trying to fit in, stay in cliques, or prove ourselves to people who don’t even see us.

But adulthood can be your second chance to show up fully, choose your people intentionally, and become who you were always meant to be—not who you had to be to survive back then.

So maybe the most important thing I’ve learned—and what I hope to model for my daughter—is this:
We’re always evolving.
What started in high school didn’t stop there.
You’re still allowed to outgrow friends, shift learning styles, explore new careers, and change your mind about what success looks like.

High school is a training ground—but adulthood is where the real self-discovery happens.

And the good news? You don’t need to have it all figured out to keep moving forward.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

The One Lesson Many Learn Too Late (or Not at All)

During a recent conversation, I found myself saying something that stuck with me:

“Unfortunately, one of the things we learn too late in life—or not at all—is that we are responsible for our own happiness.”

green letter tiles on a colorful surface

For so long, many of us believe that happiness is something external—something given to us by others, our circumstances, or the right opportunities. We think:

If only they would apologize, I could move on.
If I had more money, I’d finally be happy.
If I had the right relationship, job, or home, everything would fall into place.

But the truth is, happiness is an inside job.

Regardless of what someone said or did, where you grew up, or how much money you have—you are still responsible for your happiness. HAPPINESS ISN’T A DESTINATION

That’s a tough reality to accept, but it’s also empowering. Because when you stop waiting for someone else to make you happy, you take back control of your life.

You don’t need:

The apology you never got.
The love you weren’t given.
The opportunity that never came.

You have the power to create your own happiness, despite what’s missing.

Stop Searching Outside, Start Looking Within

Everything we seek externally—peace, love, validation, fulfillment—already exists within us. But so many people spend their entire lives chasing happiness in the wrong places, only to realize too late that it was within them all along.

So, What Can You Do?

Let Go of Expectations – People won’t always do what you think they should. Release the need for closure, apologies, or validation.
Create Joy in the Present – Stop waiting for “one day.” Find happiness in the simple moments.
Choose Yourself Daily – Set boundaries, prioritize your peace, and do what makes you feel alive.
Shift Your Perspective – Instead of focusing on what you lack, focus on what you can create.
Take Responsibility – No one else can make you happy. The power has always been yours.

Happiness is a Choice

The hardest, yet most freeing lesson in life is realizing that your happiness is not dependent on anyone or anything but you.

So, I ask you—are you still waiting for happiness to come from outside sources, or are you ready to create it from within?

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

5 Things I’d Like to Do More Of: Embracing Positivity and Growth

It’s so easy to get caught up in the cycle of focusing on what we don’t like, what we don’t want, and what we feel we lack. But what if we shifted our mindset? What if we started thinking more about the things we want to do more of, the things that bring us joy and have a positive impact on our lives? This shift in language and focus can open the door to greater happiness, growth, and fulfillment. Here are a few things I’d like to do more of that I believe will enrich my life and well-being.

1. Read More

One of the first things I’d like to do more of is reading. We all know the benefits of reading—expanding our knowledge, improving our vocabulary, and keeping our minds sharp as we age. Reading also provides a great escape from the daily grind, allowing us to immerse ourselves in different worlds, perspectives, and ideas. As life gets busier, it’s easy to let reading fall by the wayside, but I’m determined to make it a bigger part of my routine. Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, or even articles and blogs, I want to read more and make time for this self care activity.

2. Improve My Posture

Sitting at a desk all day can take a toll on our posture, and I’ve noticed that I’m not immune to this. Poor posture can lead to a host of issues, from back pain to decreased energy levels. That’s why I’d like to focus more on improving my posture. This means being mindful of how I sit, stand, and move throughout the day. Not only will this help me physically, but it will also contribute to better overall health and well-being. Small adjustments can make a big difference, and I’m committed to making posture improvement a priority.

3. Practice More Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are activities I’d like to incorporate more into my routine. These practices are fantastic for stretching muscles, maintaining muscle memory, improving strength, and enhancing flexibility. They’re also great for mental clarity and stress relief. As I get older, I realize the importance of staying active and taking care of my body. By doing more yoga and Pilates, I hope to improve my overall well-being and keep my body strong and healthy. Don’t Wait Until the Weekend to Have Fun: Embrace Joy Every Day

4. Create More Memories and Experiences with Loved Ones

As I get older, I’ve found that experiences and memories with family and friends become far more valuable than material things. I want to focus more on creating those moments—whether it’s through simple get-togethers, travel, or new adventures. These are the memories that last a lifetime, and they’re what truly bring joy to our lives. I’d like to do more of this—more connection, more laughter, more shared experiences.

5. Stay Consistent with My Blog and Self-Care

Lastly, I want to stay consistent with my blog. Writing and sharing my thoughts are important to me, and I’d like to make sure I’m dedicating time to this creative outlet. This includes everything from exercising and eating well to setting aside time for relaxation and reflection. Consistency in these areas will help me maintain peace and balance in my life, ensuring that I’m not just working hard, but also taking the time to enjoy life and take care of what truly matters.

Focusing on the things we want to do more of, rather than what we lack or dislike, can have a positive effect on our lives. By committing to reading more, improving posture, practicing yoga and Pilates, creating meaningful experiences, and staying consistent with my blog and self-care, I’m taking steps toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.

What about you? What would you like to do more of? Let’s begin to shift our language and mindset about embracing positivity and growth in our daily lives. Afterall, we only get one shot at this thing called life.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Darkness Doesn’t Last Forever: Finding Hope in the Storm

Yesterday, as I ventured out to do some errands, I was met with dark and cloudy skies, wind, and a cast of grayness. The rain poured down so heavily my visibility was almost nonexistent, and it felt as if the gloom would never lift. But then, something beautiful happened when I walked out the store. Despite the rain still coming down, the sun broke through the clouds, shining brighter than before . And to put a cherry on top I looked up and a vibrant rainbow appeared in the sky.

Instantly, this reminded me of an important life lesson: darkness doesn’t last forever. Just as the storm passed and gave way to light and color, our toughest times are often followed by moments of joy and clarity.

The Storms of Life

We all face dark and stormy periods in our lives. These can come in many forms—personal loss, professional setbacks, health challenges, financial difficulties, or emotional struggles. In the midst of these storms, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless. Even at some point wanting to throw in the towel. The darkness can cloudy our vision, making it hard to see a way forward. We may feel as if the storm will never end, and the weight of our troubles can be almost unbearable.

The Power of Persistence

However, just as with the weather, the key is to persevere. No storm lasts forever, and neither do the challenges we face. By enduring and pushing through the tough times, we allow ourselves the opportunity to witness the brighter days that follow. It’s important to remember that the sun is always there, even when hidden behind clouds. Our moments of light and happiness are waiting to break through, often when we least expect it. When we feel like we’re about to break, that’s when the light will begin to peak through. HAPPINESS ISN’T A DESTINATION

The Symbolism of the Rainbow

The rainbow that appeared after the storm is a powerful symbol of hope, happiness, and renewal. Rainbows have long been seen as a sign of promise, indicating that even after the darkest times, beauty and joy can emerge. They remind us that life is a balance of both rain and sunshine, and that both are necessary to create the fullness of our experiences.

Embracing the Light

When the sun shines through the rain, it serves as a sign for finding light in our darkest moments. It encourages us to look for the positives even when we are struggling. It’s about finding those small glimmers of hope and holding onto them. These moments of light can come from various sources—support from loved ones, personal achievements, or simply taking time to appreciate the beauty around us.

Moving Forward with Hope

As we move through life, it’s essential to carry the lesson of the rainbow with us. When faced with adversity, remind yourself that this too shall pass. Tough times don’t last. Embrace the idea that after every storm, there is potential for renewal and joy. Allow yourself to feel the rain, but also be ready to welcome the sun when it shines again.

The experience of witnessing the sun break through a storm and seeing a rainbow reminds us that darkness is temporary. No matter how hard it rains or how dark it gets, the light will eventually shine through, bringing with it new opportunities for happiness and growth. So, the next time you find yourself in the midst of a storm, remember to hold on and look for the rainbow that follows. It’s a beautiful reminder that brighter days are always ahead.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

BEST THING I HEARD ALL WEEK

“You’ve done what the Lord has asked us all to do. What someone does with your gift or what intentions they had isn’t for you to worry about.” Once again I perked up at my desk. When my antennas go up my mind, spirit, and heart is open to receive.

Monday morning I had an email that read “I’ll have to explain it to you in person.” Come to find out a couple approached a lady that came to visit church Sunday morning. At the end of service they approached and welcomed her. Upon approaching, we’re going to call her “Tina”, they noticed she didn’t look well. So they asked if they could help her with anything.

Tina only communicated through a notepad, had 4 large bags with her, and it was cold and rainy out. After limited communication, the couple decided to place her in a hotel for a couple of nights until she could get to a shelter. Well after some thought they had buyers remorse and felt like they had been scammed. 10 MENTAL HEALTH REMINDERS

Meeting with them and hearing Tina was dressed in beautiful trench coat, high heals, hair done, she wasn’t wet when she came in, didn’t have body odor, and her bags of stuff was nicely clean and organize they felt like they were scammed. This couple wasn’t asking for their money back, I think they just wanted to vent their frustration. Get some confirmation of their feelings and simply process the events.

In the meeting the Pastor explained you did what our boss, God, told us to do. We opened the doors of the church. We gave them coffee and a bite to eat. Placed them in a room for comfort. You did the right thing and what you were supposed to do. Thus, your spirits and conscious is free, clear, and open to receive blessings. What another person does with our gifts, generosity, and kindness isn’t for us to deal with. That is their payday.

I needed this because I had been battling myself on how to proceed with certain relationships in my family. I’ve felt duped and bamboozled by my aunt. Betrayed by my brother of him directing his anger at me. Hearing that message gave me confirmation on continuing to do the right thing. Throughout the week I read twice on different media, don’t stop doing the right things, just because the wrong people didn’t appreciate or receive it.

Is it hard. YES!!!! But be good to yourself and others. Don’t worry about their payday. As long as you make sure you get paid when it’s time. Being good to others is good for the soul.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

FINDING JOY IN THE LITTLE THINGS

I saw this video where this girl discussed her pleasure and joy in having a Starbucks drink. How do you find joy in the little things. This young woman explained after having less than $2 in her bank account for a week, she decided on payday to get her a drink at Starbucks. Her Caption: “After surviving a week with $1.23 in my bank I decided to treat myself to a starbies drink.” As she took big gulps you can see the exhale and relief the drink was providing. As she sat in her car, gazing out the window, you can feel her joy and pleasure with the zen moment she was having.

shallow focus photo of coffee in a starbucks cup

5 Little Things I Enjoy

-Sheet Mask
-Going For A Walk
-Watching Football with my husband
-Listening to music
-Having a good cup of coffee

She had a mixed response. Some went the route of saying purchasing that coffee is the reason why she only had a dollar and change. She’s keeping herself broke while buying those kind of drinks. They have lots of calories anyway. While others understood her point, finding joy in the most simple things in life can bring you peace and comfort. It wasn’t about the money. After having an intense emotional rollercoaster of a week, she needed something to pickup herself up. She found it in a drink. It could have been found in something else worse.

But isn’t that what self care is about. When tough times approach you, how do you self soothe. What is the one thing you can do that gives you that instant boost of energy, courage, and motivation to tackle on the next week. The truth is we all have our vices. 10 DAILY SIMPLE SELF CARE ACTIVITIES THAT WORK

So often we look for the big house, Paris vacation, nice car, large diamonds, large closets, and more stuff to bring us joy and peace. When, if we paused for a moment it’s the most simple pleasures in life that brings the greatest amount joy. Finding joy in the smallest things will give you meaning, purpose, encouragement, inspiration, joy, happiness, confidence, and self worth.

Finding joy in the simple things allows you to experience the happiness guilt free. It doesn’t have any attachments. We’re in the month of November. Gratitude is the attitude. What are some simple things in life that brings you joy and happiness?

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

MENTAL NOTE OF THE DAY

” Sometimes happiness looks like staying home, minding your business, telling people no, and doing you.” – Myleik Teele

Please don’t get fooled by social media thinking you have to spend your life savings going on extravagant vacations, wearing expensive clothes, and having the latest IPhone. You can be happy taking a mini vacay to the next town over. Sight seeing, eating good food, and learning something new closer to home. Spending money on the latest trends requires a lot of time and money trying to keep up. No matter what you wear you define the outfit. Find your style and wear it with confidence. Labels doesn’t add value to you. KEY TO HAPPINESS: DO WHATEVER YOU WANT TO DO Create an environment at home to where you don’t ever want to leave.

Cozy Day At Home Essentials:

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Not only ensure it’s comfy, inviting, and secure, but make sure your home is safe mentally and emotionally. Declutter, clean, and infuse your home with scents of calm. This will allow for your home to give you a safe space mentally and emotionally. Happiness is being secure in who you are and not worry about what others are doing or what they have. How they live their life isn’t your business. The most freeing feeling is telling someone “no” without giving any explanation. So often we feel we need to explain why we’re declining an invitation, doesn’t want to do a favor, or be bothered. Happiness is simple, calm, and doesn’t require much. Enjoy the rest your day!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

YOUR PASSION AND PURPOSE IS ALREADY IN YOU

How do I know what my passion and purpose in life is? I have no idea where to begin or find it. The good news is, you don’t have to find it, its already in you. You’ve probably had a glimpse of it more than once. But due to fear, lack of resources, finances, and fear of “looking crazy” to family and friends you probably ignored it for many years just like I did. I too would always ask “What is my purpose?” “What am I passionate about?”

The truth is that, I already knew. But because no one else had my vision, or it seemed far out, I didn’t act upon it, or pursued it. Finally, one day I watched Steve Harvey Motivational Video about finding your gift and knowing what it is. He said “your gift is the thing you do the absolute best, with the least amount of effort.”

So I’m telling you, your gift is the one thing you do without thinking, breathing, or blinking. You do it so well that you don’t even realize you’re doing it. When you are in your gift, you are at peace, smiling, eager to continue, you don’t want it to end, and when it does all you can think about is doing it again. JOURNAL WRITING: 10 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU FIND YOURSELF Acknowledging or figuring out your gift will help you understand your passion and purpose.

Yesterday I had to admit some hard truths after speaking with a client. She simply called in for some insurance. Upon having a conversation and trying to get information she revealed she wasn’t in the best place mentally due to the death of her father. Without warning I sprung into action, speaking life into her. I totally left the quote in place until we were finish.

For an hour and half, without thinking or remembering I was at work, I poured into her until I can hear a sigh of relief in her voice. Immediately, I encouraged her to not apologize for being emotional. I let her know it was ok to grieve and to do so on her own terms. As I began to pour into her, she began to open up and tell me how she had been trying to deal with the realization of her loved one passing. At one point, she even said “I can’t believe I’m opening up to you like this but I needed this conversation.”

SideNote: Sometimes talking to strangers about your honest and raw emotions is easier than talking to family and friends. You can be as authentic as you need to be to express yourself and feelings. When we sometimes talk to family and friends we tend to hold back because we don’t want the judgement.

That’s when I knew. The more we continued to bond and talk, the more I wanted to encourage, motivate, and support. The more she felt better. Her voice no longer trembled. Her tears began to clear. And she said she feels like she can find a way to live with her father no longer being here in the physical.

After hanging up, I was ready to do it again. Before I knew, I said, “That is what I want to do.” I literally began thinking of ways I can talk to people and encourage them in whatever they were going through. I was jotting down notes and things. The rest of the day my mind was brainstorming and thinking of ways I could do it again and again. Even now I’m still thinking about it.

Yes I have a great cooperate job with an amazing company, benefits, flexibility, and support. But still with that, my heart is wanting to help heal, encourage, and motivate. That’s how I know what my purpose and passion is.

Think of that one time or more than one, when you were completely sound mind, body, and spirit. And you couldn’t wait to do it again. That’s your gift, purpose, and passion.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

10 WAYS TO LIVE HAPPIER

Happiness is a choice and journey. Therefore there are many ways we can live more happier. Here is a list of 10 things you can do to live happier. KEY TO HAPPINESS: DO WHATEVER YOU WANT TO DO

10 Ways to Live Happier

Stop Overthinking.
We all are guilty of this. Over thinking is rehashing the past or certain situations that we wish would have went differently, or have anxiety about a situation coming up. Overthinking stops us from recognizing our blessings, talents, and gifts that we do have. Thus halting our happiness.
Take a risk.
Most of the time we are unhappy because the one thing that we want to do, fear has trapped us from doing. When you ask an older person the one thing they regret, most of the time it’s not taking a risk on something. No matter what it is, take a risk. You never know what direction your life will turn.
Run Towards What Makes You Happy.
Whatever that one thing is that makes you happy and feel the most alive, don’t stop feeding it. Don’t let other’s opinions stop you. The lack of money. Fear of rejection. That one thing that keeps your heart fluttering will lead you down your path of true happiness.
Create Memories.
Have fun and let lose. It’s ok to poke fun of yourself, not be serious, and laugh. Take pictures, document, and create memories. It doesn’t have to be on a holiday, it could be any day of the year. Give yourself something to look back on.
Reinvent Yourself.
You don’t have to stay the same or do the same thing. You are supposed to grow and evolve. Change your look, the way you dress, redecorate you home, and work station. A new perspective instantly boosts confidence, self esteem, and happiness.
Learn From the Setback.
Don’t run from rejection, setbacks, and mistakes. SETBACKS, REJECTIONS, AND STUMBLING BLOCKS ARE NECESSARY FOR GROWTH Those moments are when we’re supposed to be open minded the most. Each ”negative” is teaching us an essential piece of wisdom needed to move forward. Embrace them and grow through them.
Invest in Yourself.
You are the constant in your life. Invest in yourself often. Be the best you and invest in your appearance. So when you go out, to wherever, you look good and feel good. Invest in your career, home, family, life, and health. You matter as well as your happiness.
Be comfortable now.
Yes we want more, and want to grow. But be comfortable with what you have now. Accept, love, and cherish the now so when greater come you’re able to value it like you should. When it’s time for us to have more, that blessing will come. Until then, show God you’re grateful for what he has given you so far.
Give Back.
No matter what your family situation is, give back. Whatever your financial situations is, give back. If you’re not feeling great, give back. The love, compassion, empathy, time, and money we give can save someone’s life. In return when we show support our mood and spirits are filled with gratitude. In result, more happiness.
Enjoy family and friends.
Unfortunately, there are people who still think they can live in this world alone. Even when the relationships aren’t the best, take the good and leave the rest. We all need community support.

Those are 10 things that makes us live more happier. Start here, be consistent, and watch your happiness grow. Enjoy the journey and healing process.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

HAPPINESS ISN’T A DESTINATION

Happiness isn’t a destination. You can be happy in the midst of a storm. You can be happy with $100 in the bank or a million dollars. Happiness is ever evolving depending on the season you are in.

The first thing to do is stop saying ” I’ll be happy when…” That puts in your subconscious you can’t and won’t be happy until you fulfill a certain milestone. Then the goal post will shift on to the next milestone. Your happiness begins with your approach in life and what you believe about the current events you are experiencing.

Happiness is journey not a destination. You can absolutely be happy in an apartment. You don’t need a huge house to be happy. That huge house brings more bills, responsibility, care, and time. We must be careful putting a price on our happiness. KEY TO HAPPINESS: DO WHATEVER YOU WANT TO DO

You know if I was making more money, I’ll be happier. No you won’t. The more money you make the more you spend. On things that aren’t needed or worth it. You know if I was in a bigger place then we’ll have the space we need. No, you’ll have more to clean. Get creative where you are. Furthermore, there are people on the lowest income bracket living in more peace than those that are in abundance. I’ve seen some amazing home decor in the smallest homes and apartments that looks and feels cozy. While those in a larger home isn’t happy with all that square footage.

Love being single. Will you get lonely sometimes. Absolutely!!!!!! But guess what, those in relationships and married get lonely sometimes as well. Your partner will come at the right time. Be happy with yourself first. Learn you. Love you. Know you. In the meantime, you’ll enter a partnership knowing your boundaries, needs, and wants.

No matter where you are, learn to be happy at that point. Yesterday is gone and we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. Alas, we don’t know what’s going to happen 2 hours from now. Just know wherever you are that’s where you are supposed to be. Enjoy the good in that moment. If you can be happy in the small place in your life, when God blesses you with a breakthrough you’’ll be able to handle it. #MondayMotivation

Have a great day everyone!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.