Hi professor thank you for sharing! I also have been wanting to try new things and hobbies i can find a passion for. Communication has recently caught my eye. it's fascinating how were able to connect thru words.
Thank you for your candor and transparency. Much of what you said speaks to me and my current situation. Your experience and approach have encouraged me to look at my life through a different lens that might lead to different and more satisfying decisions.
Thanks for your comment, Joseph. Learning to live a more satisfying life is something I think we're all work on, but I sincerely believe its worth the effort.
Hi Professor! This post was very insightful, thank you for sharing this with us all. I think trying new things takes a lot of bravery because you truly never know the outcome, but I think the worst thing that can happen is you find out you really don't like that new thing you tried. Live and learn. Something new that I've tried recently is sewing using a machine and it honestly didn't go very well. I met up with some ladies that host a sewing class and they told me they could help me this upcoming Friday. Despite it not going well, I haven't given up just yet. So I learned about myself that I am persistent and patient, even when things are difficult. -Barbie
Thank you for your post. Live and learn for sure! I'll be curious to hear how the sewing adventure goes. Either way, sounds like there's a good lesson there. Wonder what it will be? Good luck!
I enjoyed reading this post. It shows how you’ve lived through your mistakes but also owned up to it and self reflected on how and what you can do to become a better version of yourself. This has taught me that though life may seem short, there is still enough time we can develop personal growth (you as an example!) Recently I have been enjoying going on hikes and swimming. It made me learn that I value quality time with loved ones. :)
I really admire the way you laid this post out. I find it especially inspiring to note how your “re-imagining” of certain aspects of your life has genuinely improved it. I think it takes humility and bravery to, first, realize an area of our lives that we feel can and should be improved and, second, bravery to take a step of action to improve that area. As someone interested in writing, I can also appreciate your authenticity and self-awareness. Thank you for making this decision and including your students in it— I imagine I am not the only one left feeling inspired!
I’m glad to know you are are interested in writing. I have found some wonderful (free) writing communities on Substack to support my writing efforts (classes, teachers who provide writing tips and prompts, writers who share their success and challenges with craft…). Thank you for your comment and encouragement. I’m glad you found me on Substack.
Yes I do have thoughts about trying new things. However I get stuck in a rut at times. So I find myself doing the same things. I sometimes get to comfortable in this rut. So I try to or have a desire to try new things.
Is there something new you’ve tried recently?
Something new I have tried recently was when I got off work one day. I get to travel to different locations for work . I usually drive straight home after. But I’ve lately started walking around the area I am in.
How did it go, and what did you learn about yourself?
It went well I got to enjoy the sites and experience a different setting. Different people and places. I learned that getting out of the rut and simple exercise are good for the mind body and soul.
Thank you for being so responsive and helpful this past semester. I am grateful to be one step closer to achieve a degree. I am also grateful for the lessons taught in interpersonal communication.
I love your example of trying new things. It’s the sort of option that everyone can do—breaking a daily living pattern. Most often, when I’m driving from point A to Point B I am laser focused. I’m in a hurry, I’m on the clock. I wonder what would happen if I pulled over mid trip and walked around someplace unfamiliar? Maybe found the local bookstore and roamed for 30 minutes? Sounds like a great idea for a writing exercise :-). Thank you for sharing.
Yes, I typically want to try new things. Sometimes find it hard to though. I usually get stuck in a rut and feel comfortable in it.
Is there something new you’ve tried recently?
Yes! For work I travel to different locations around the greater Sacramento area. One day I got off work in the beautiful el dorado hills area. I usually drive straight home after getting off. On this day I decided to walk around and enjoy the area.
How did it go, and what did you learn about yourself?
It went good I learned that taking time to enjoy the moment is important. Exploring areas can be fun and relaxing. To also notice the different people and things I see in this area. Rather than my local one.
I really enjoyed reading your first post and can’t wait to follow the journey- and interacting along the way :). Not often do us students have an opportunity to relate personally to our professors so this was both refreshing and inspiring. Lately I have been pulled to be more creative, I have found interest in taking dance lessons and pottery. I’ve had this thought for a while now but struggle with perfectionism. The fear of not being perfect and being my worst critic while learning honestly is what has not allowed me to move forward. But I plan to change that! Recently I found a pottery class that works in my schedule and I’ve signed up. It starts in January and I am very excited and nervous. So we’ll see, anyways it was great being in your class this semester. Congrats on your first post and new chapter!
I love reading that you are feeling a pull towards creativity. I always think of that thing inside, the thing that wakes up and pulls us towards creation, as our real self. Nurture this spark! Thank you for your kind words and for finding my on Substack!
I really enjoyed reading the first post and am really glad that you are pursuing something new. Along with the fact that it is bringing joy to your life, which actually got me thinking about me wanting to take up something new. I felt inspired to try to learn a new instrument, even though I know how to play one, just so I am able to get out of my comfort zone. So your first post is really giving me that extra push. Again, I am really happy that you are embarking on this new journey, and will definitely come to see what else you post in the future.
Yes! I love that you feel pulled to learn a new instrument. What a beautiful gift to give yourself. I really hope you DO IT! Getting out of our comfort zone makes us feel alive! Thanks for your encouragement and for finding me on Substack.
it was so interesting reading about your experiences not just as of now but in the past! I really like how you described self growth and how you were able to share your own perspective on the topic. Thank you for introducing me onto this platform, It seems so interesting.
Thank you for your encouragement! I’m still learning on this platform, but I like it. I’m meeting other teachers, writers, people…who share their craft and seem open and collaborative. I hope you find communities on Substack that inspire you! Thank you for subscribing!
Hi, Thank you for a great semester and for being so present this semester. I appreciated the fast grading, comments, and lessons throughout this semester.
I really enjoyed reading your first post and am glad that you discovered something new that brings joy to your life. This also helped me realize some things that I would like to try out, things that I want to pursue but never tried to. For me personally it would be trying to play guitar, I have been mostly playing drums and guitar is a more technical instrument to play. But it does bring me the same joy of figuring something out and having it all click! Anyways, I am really interested in this journey and would definitely come check in every once in a while when I need some guidance.
I love your description of “having it all click.” At least in my case, that doesn’t usually happen without some effort, some wondering, some trying new directions, some moments of frustration…so when I finally feel that “click,” wow, is it satisfying. I hope you do try guitar and that you have many moments of “click!!!” Thankyou for sharing.
I enjoyed reading your feelings and thoughts regarding academic, personal, memoir writings. It is funny but my personal favorite quote from Shakespeare is, “To thine own self be true” and for most of my ADHD life, a life of jack of all trades and master of none, I am not so sure if that stance is the wisest. We all should have some core values and beliefs, but what we are is so dynamic and hard to pinpoint like star dust. I think your process of putting thoughts on paper and in discovering yourself through writing is quite admirable and I hope to connect you more.
Dr. Parabon is also known as Andrew at one time or another.
Your post touched a personal cord in me. One of my daughters has ADHD. She is brilliant. Funny. Beautiful. Creative. Attended U.C. Berkely for seven years, before dropping out… Your claim to be “a jack of all trades and master of none,” makes me think of her. Like you, she is dynamic but hard to pinpoint. And yet, I trust that she will find her way. Her path won’t be linear, her destination will probably be unexpected, but the star dust she emits makes her glow bright. Her journey will make a spectacular story. I imagine you share some of these admirable qualities so I’ll say the same thing to you that I say to her: Be kind and patient with yourself. Know that you are not alone. Trust in your own brilliance. Thank you for your post, Dr. Parabon. It’s been a pleasure to get to know you.
Hi professor thank you for sharing! I also have been wanting to try new things and hobbies i can find a passion for. Communication has recently caught my eye. it's fascinating how were able to connect thru words.
Hi Sara,
Thanks for your comment. I'm biased (not surprisingly!) but I think comm is a great major. Glad its on your radar.
Thank you for your candor and transparency. Much of what you said speaks to me and my current situation. Your experience and approach have encouraged me to look at my life through a different lens that might lead to different and more satisfying decisions.
Thanks for your comment, Joseph. Learning to live a more satisfying life is something I think we're all work on, but I sincerely believe its worth the effort.
Hi Professor! This post was very insightful, thank you for sharing this with us all. I think trying new things takes a lot of bravery because you truly never know the outcome, but I think the worst thing that can happen is you find out you really don't like that new thing you tried. Live and learn. Something new that I've tried recently is sewing using a machine and it honestly didn't go very well. I met up with some ladies that host a sewing class and they told me they could help me this upcoming Friday. Despite it not going well, I haven't given up just yet. So I learned about myself that I am persistent and patient, even when things are difficult. -Barbie
Hi Barbie,
Thank you for your post. Live and learn for sure! I'll be curious to hear how the sewing adventure goes. Either way, sounds like there's a good lesson there. Wonder what it will be? Good luck!
Hi Professor,
I enjoyed reading this post. It shows how you’ve lived through your mistakes but also owned up to it and self reflected on how and what you can do to become a better version of yourself. This has taught me that though life may seem short, there is still enough time we can develop personal growth (you as an example!) Recently I have been enjoying going on hikes and swimming. It made me learn that I value quality time with loved ones. :)
Hey Professor,
I actually love that you created this platform it really shows when certain teachers care about their students. Thank you for being one of them! :)
Hi Rhea!
Thanks for the kind comment and welcome to Comm 321! I hope your summer is off to a great start.
Hey Professor,
I really admire the way you laid this post out. I find it especially inspiring to note how your “re-imagining” of certain aspects of your life has genuinely improved it. I think it takes humility and bravery to, first, realize an area of our lives that we feel can and should be improved and, second, bravery to take a step of action to improve that area. As someone interested in writing, I can also appreciate your authenticity and self-awareness. Thank you for making this decision and including your students in it— I imagine I am not the only one left feeling inspired!
- Daniel G. w2002623
Hi Daniel!
I’m glad to know you are are interested in writing. I have found some wonderful (free) writing communities on Substack to support my writing efforts (classes, teachers who provide writing tips and prompts, writers who share their success and challenges with craft…). Thank you for your comment and encouragement. I’m glad you found me on Substack.
Hello Professor! & all who read my response!
Do you have thoughts about trying new things?
Yes I do have thoughts about trying new things. However I get stuck in a rut at times. So I find myself doing the same things. I sometimes get to comfortable in this rut. So I try to or have a desire to try new things.
Is there something new you’ve tried recently?
Something new I have tried recently was when I got off work one day. I get to travel to different locations for work . I usually drive straight home after. But I’ve lately started walking around the area I am in.
How did it go, and what did you learn about yourself?
It went well I got to enjoy the sites and experience a different setting. Different people and places. I learned that getting out of the rut and simple exercise are good for the mind body and soul.
Thank you for being so responsive and helpful this past semester. I am grateful to be one step closer to achieve a degree. I am also grateful for the lessons taught in interpersonal communication.
Hi Tyler!
I love your example of trying new things. It’s the sort of option that everyone can do—breaking a daily living pattern. Most often, when I’m driving from point A to Point B I am laser focused. I’m in a hurry, I’m on the clock. I wonder what would happen if I pulled over mid trip and walked around someplace unfamiliar? Maybe found the local bookstore and roamed for 30 minutes? Sounds like a great idea for a writing exercise :-). Thank you for sharing.
Do you have thoughts about trying new things?
Yes, I typically want to try new things. Sometimes find it hard to though. I usually get stuck in a rut and feel comfortable in it.
Is there something new you’ve tried recently?
Yes! For work I travel to different locations around the greater Sacramento area. One day I got off work in the beautiful el dorado hills area. I usually drive straight home after getting off. On this day I decided to walk around and enjoy the area.
How did it go, and what did you learn about yourself?
It went good I learned that taking time to enjoy the moment is important. Exploring areas can be fun and relaxing. To also notice the different people and things I see in this area. Rather than my local one.
Great Illustration! Thanks for your response.
Hey Professor,
I really enjoyed reading your first post and can’t wait to follow the journey- and interacting along the way :). Not often do us students have an opportunity to relate personally to our professors so this was both refreshing and inspiring. Lately I have been pulled to be more creative, I have found interest in taking dance lessons and pottery. I’ve had this thought for a while now but struggle with perfectionism. The fear of not being perfect and being my worst critic while learning honestly is what has not allowed me to move forward. But I plan to change that! Recently I found a pottery class that works in my schedule and I’ve signed up. It starts in January and I am very excited and nervous. So we’ll see, anyways it was great being in your class this semester. Congrats on your first post and new chapter!
Hi Shakiah,
I love reading that you are feeling a pull towards creativity. I always think of that thing inside, the thing that wakes up and pulls us towards creation, as our real self. Nurture this spark! Thank you for your kind words and for finding my on Substack!
Hi Professor,
I really enjoyed reading the first post and am really glad that you are pursuing something new. Along with the fact that it is bringing joy to your life, which actually got me thinking about me wanting to take up something new. I felt inspired to try to learn a new instrument, even though I know how to play one, just so I am able to get out of my comfort zone. So your first post is really giving me that extra push. Again, I am really happy that you are embarking on this new journey, and will definitely come to see what else you post in the future.
Hi Ethan,
Yes! I love that you feel pulled to learn a new instrument. What a beautiful gift to give yourself. I really hope you DO IT! Getting out of our comfort zone makes us feel alive! Thanks for your encouragement and for finding me on Substack.
Hi Professor,
it was so interesting reading about your experiences not just as of now but in the past! I really like how you described self growth and how you were able to share your own perspective on the topic. Thank you for introducing me onto this platform, It seems so interesting.
Hi Annelise,
Thank you for your encouragement! I’m still learning on this platform, but I like it. I’m meeting other teachers, writers, people…who share their craft and seem open and collaborative. I hope you find communities on Substack that inspire you! Thank you for subscribing!
Hi, Thank you for a great semester and for being so present this semester. I appreciated the fast grading, comments, and lessons throughout this semester.
Hi Zamyrah,
It was wonderful to have you in my class! Thank you for the kind words and for finding me on Substack!
hi!
Hi Professor
I really enjoyed reading your first post and am glad that you discovered something new that brings joy to your life. This also helped me realize some things that I would like to try out, things that I want to pursue but never tried to. For me personally it would be trying to play guitar, I have been mostly playing drums and guitar is a more technical instrument to play. But it does bring me the same joy of figuring something out and having it all click! Anyways, I am really interested in this journey and would definitely come check in every once in a while when I need some guidance.
Hi Ethan,
I love your description of “having it all click.” At least in my case, that doesn’t usually happen without some effort, some wondering, some trying new directions, some moments of frustration…so when I finally feel that “click,” wow, is it satisfying. I hope you do try guitar and that you have many moments of “click!!!” Thankyou for sharing.
Hello Professor,
I enjoyed reading your post. It’s good to hear that you started exploring therapeutic writing and how it’s opened your vulnerability.
Hi Ato!
Thank you for your kind words and for finding me on Substack! Happy holidays.
Hi professor Hodgkinson,
I enjoyed reading your feelings and thoughts regarding academic, personal, memoir writings. It is funny but my personal favorite quote from Shakespeare is, “To thine own self be true” and for most of my ADHD life, a life of jack of all trades and master of none, I am not so sure if that stance is the wisest. We all should have some core values and beliefs, but what we are is so dynamic and hard to pinpoint like star dust. I think your process of putting thoughts on paper and in discovering yourself through writing is quite admirable and I hope to connect you more.
Dr. Parabon is also known as Andrew at one time or another.
Hi Dr. Parabon (a.k.a. Andrew),
Your post touched a personal cord in me. One of my daughters has ADHD. She is brilliant. Funny. Beautiful. Creative. Attended U.C. Berkely for seven years, before dropping out… Your claim to be “a jack of all trades and master of none,” makes me think of her. Like you, she is dynamic but hard to pinpoint. And yet, I trust that she will find her way. Her path won’t be linear, her destination will probably be unexpected, but the star dust she emits makes her glow bright. Her journey will make a spectacular story. I imagine you share some of these admirable qualities so I’ll say the same thing to you that I say to her: Be kind and patient with yourself. Know that you are not alone. Trust in your own brilliance. Thank you for your post, Dr. Parabon. It’s been a pleasure to get to know you.