Be Authentic, Be You

Well it is currently 11:38pm and it is officially blog time. Today has surpassed all expectations. From Jake to packing a giant suitcase and having to go through bad check, to almost dying in our van ride to the hotel, our nap time, mini dance sessions, bonding time, Jimmy Johns,Starbucks, meeting new NGLA friends, and hearing @JamesTRobo give his presentation. Day 1 you are surely going to be hard to beat.

I have already spent  100 dollars, but that is okay because who doesn't splurge and freak out over glitter quarter zip letters...no one. I have gone into this experience with an open mind and clearly an open wallet. I so far have spent a decent amount of that cash money on food, but food is great and it was worth it. That is what travelers do, we spend mass amounts of money on food. I am sure you don't care to hear about how I spent my money, but too late I already said it, it happened.

I want to share with you how the opening presentation went! First of all, @JamesTRobo is #hilarious, he is a must see event. Everything about his speech was #goals. His first piece of dialogue was about his eating pancake experiences, which was quite funny and somewhat relate-able. He is the guy that enjoys his pancakes and completely drenches his pancakes in butter and syrup, but hey we all secretly do that. He also is that guy that strategically cuts his pancakes before eating them. James kept reiterating the fact that we all do something weird, and that is cool, that is what makes us, us.Instead of focusing on trying to fit in and change who you are, focus on what makes you, you. You are amazing, in your own quirky way, own it. Don't take down that awesome Instagram post because it did not get any likes within 15 minutes, if you think that picture is awesome, than you know what, it is. Don't delete the picture.

@JamesTRobo also mentioned acronym PHEAM, which stands for Posture, Handshake, Energy,Attitude, will make you memorable. His talked about the importance of all of these, and how we should approach new friends. No one wants to interact with that person who is slouching and arms crossed. Stand presentable, have good posture, and look approachable, because you want to be. Make sure when you go in for a handshake you give that awkward weird, not in the mood, give a good and firm handshake, it can go a long way. H could also stand for hugger, if you are a hugger like myself, maybe ask for that hug. There is always the non hugger in the room who is dreading being near you because they know that you know that you are a hugger.Have energy, be the person that gets the crowd going, start off the event on the right foot, break that ice. Also, try having a positive attitude, no one wants to hang around with "Sassy Sally", everyone wants to hang out with "Smiling Sam", who is clearly having a great time. Lastly, with all of these great things combined you are surely going to leave a great impression, and you will be remembered.What I got out of all of this is to stay true to yourself, be authentic, be you.