Like many homes with young children, ours became the family and keeper of a small furry addition: the hamster.  She was chosen among her peers for her soft coat, alertness and general keenness.  We thought we were embarking on a “pet experience” – the fun and friendship we would share and the lessons our child would learn from the commitment of regular feeding and cleaning responsibilities.  We felt we would provide a good home – with good nutrition, fun outings and genuine care.  We didn’t know we could grow so attached and we certainly did not anticipate finding the hamster, the little furball we brought home in a cardboard canary box, demonstrating so many of the life skills, stress management, time management and successful work habits students are encouraged to develop.  We became pupils of the hamster.  Here is what she has to offer you:

Sleeping in Routine

• Keep a routine that suits your makeup and allows you to do your work.  (Sleep at your sleepy time, work at your best time.)
• Go to bed at the same time every day.
• Get ample sleep.
• Get up at the same time.
• Short naps are also just fine. 

Feeding

• Have frequent small meals and snacks.
• Eat plenty of seeds and fresh vegetables, some fruit and perhaps some occasional animal protein.
• Enjoy your food and take in-the-moment pure delight in new taste sensations.
• Save some food for later.
• Remember to drink water. 

Work & Play

• Work, even if you don’t have to.
• Take frequent breaks (get off the wheel, and get back on).
• Exercise and stay active your optimal amount (most of your waking hours).
• Give yourself new physical challenges (such as climbing overhead bars).
• Continue to use your full range of skills and talents.
• Play, even if you are on your own.
• Take advantage of opportunities to have new experiences (on your own terms).
• Never stop pursuing your ultimate experience – believe in yourself.                                                    
• Enjoy “time for you”: Wash and groom thoroughly and regularly – maybe even include the odd massage.
• Let others admire your perfectly groomed appearance, but there is no need to look in a mirror.
• Sustain good dental maintenance.
• Don’t worry in the least if you get a bit hippy as you grow to maturity – it’s in your genes and perfectly healthy. 

Lifestyle Philosophy

• Build and decorate your own nest/home/bed and fully enjoy it.
• Collect only the things you need and use – too many things make for a crowded house.
• Carry with you the food and things you need for the day in a pouch close to your body, so your limbs are free to move.
• Socialize as you need/want to outside your work time.
• Establish social boundaries.
• Stay the course and remain focused on your goal.
• Remain alert.
• Use all your senses.
• Explore fearlessly.

Student success involves time management, stress management, good study and work habits and a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle.  At ASC we offer lectures, workshops and one-on-one support to help you develop great skills and habits.  Everything you need to know, you can also learn from a hamster!

AG