Simple Habits Lead to More Happiness during PC Service
Thoughts about an article on INC.com and how it could relate to PC service
A recent article from INC., "How I Finally Learned to Experience More Happiness and a Better Life with 6 Simple Habits" gives some good suggestions on how to be happier. I thought they were a good starting point for Peace Corps volunteers too.
1. Simplify how you manage your day
Life as a PCV is 24/7 and you have a lot of people pulling you all different ways. And, let's face it, you can't do it all. Simplify your day by limiting your time to a few key items. My daily to-do list only has 3 items on it - and even with that, I sometimes don't get them all done. And limit your commitments, especially in your first year. You have plenty of time for those "big" ideas after Mid-Service.
2. Let go of people who bring you stress
In your community, there are bound to be some people who don't trust you or don't like you because you are an American/foreigner. Or they don't think a young volunteer can do anything productive. I would recommend working with those people who "want" to work with you and limit contact with those who don't. After a time, those doubters might change their minds, but don't waste energy on the impossible.
3. Distance yourself from vicious gossip
Large cohorts of volunteers can be a vicious gossip factory. Especially now, with even remote volunteers, technology negates the distance. So, volunteers communicate with each other a lot more (compared to even 10 years ago). With a lot fewer distractions, it is easier to fill in the void with every little tidbit about your fellow volunteers. It happens. Don't get sucked in. It's not healthy and never will be. Then you'll be a lot more appreciative when you see everyone at the conferences.
4. Listen more and speak less
Even volunteers will little experience, seem to come to service with a lot of ideas. It's natural and what is a positive aspect of our culture. We generate ideas all the time. But when coming to a different culture and environment, it does make a lot more sense to sit back and take it all in. Experience it first, at least for the first 6 months before you start sharing your ideas - but then do it slowly. Then if things are going well, you can pull out the stops in your 2nd year because of your experience and understanding.
5. Stop "faking it till you make it."
It is alright to not know anything. It is alright to not change the world (or even your community) overnight. Admit that you don't know something and find someone who can fill those gaps. It could be PC staff, other volunteers, info on the internet, or even someone in the village. But the first step in learning what you don't know is admitting you don't know it in the first place.
6. Set smaller goals
I love this one. Again, it's our American culture that pushes us to dream big. Nothing wrong with that, but to get there, you have to take baby steps. In the Peace Corps, those could be measured in inches, not feet or yards. By setting smaller goals, you will see measurable progress sooner and faster. And it's easier to adapt when things are not going to plan. Two years of service can be a long time, and if you set your goals right, you'll make huge gains by the time you COS.
The Peace Corps journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and by incorporating these habits, you'll find joy. As you weather the challenges and celebrate the victories, these habits can guide you towards a more content and impactful service. Here's wishing you a Peace Corps experience filled with growth, resilience, and genuine happiness. Cheers to your remarkable journey ahead!