This week was a big shift in our program. I started at my host company for the first time! Working remotely brings its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. To help set the right tone and keep those jitters in check, I have a few first-week rituals that I swear by. Here’s how I got ready to dive into this new adventure and made the most out of my first week:

Prepare the Night Before
Preparing the night before made a world of difference. I set up my workspace, made sure my laptop was charged, and had all necessary documents and materials ready. This simple routine not only saved me from morning chaos but also gave me peace of mind knowing I was ready to go. My Keurig machine has also been a real lifesaver with its automatic pre-heating feature at 8:15am every day. It’s been a game-changer!

Get a Good Night’s Sleep
There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep to set me up for a successful day. Unfortunately, I have always struggled with sleep issues, namely insomnia, but I’ve found melatonin in combination with L-theanine supplements to make a world of difference. I aimed for at least seven to eight hours of rest each night, so I could wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face whatever came my way. A well-rested mind is sharper and more focused, which is exactly what I needed for my first week because it was whirlwind for sure.

Morning Routine: Set the Tone
I’m not going to pretend I wake up at 5am and run three miles in the morning because I don’t. My morning routine is all about setting a positive tone in a way that feels right for me. Whether it’s listening to my favorite playlist, having a good breakfast, taking a refreshing walk, or just spending a few minutes meditating, these activities make me feel centered and energized. This routine acts as my grounding ritual, giving me a sense of stability amidst the newness and uncertainty of my first week. This routine is also not rigid or set in stone. Somedays I may take a walk while others I may wake up just in time to listen to a quick song before clocking in. I believe this flexibility is great and gives me a morning routine that is both realistic and “uniquely me.”

Stay Open-Minded and Curious
I approached my first week with an open mind and a curious attitude. I was ready to learn, ask questions, and soak up as much information as possible. Despite the unfamiliar terminology used by my peers, I found that embracing this mindset allowed me to quickly adapt and demonstrated my eagerness to become a part of the team.

Plan Your Breaks
I made sure to take note of break times and used them wisely. Short breaks helped me recharge, reflect on what I’d learned, and prepare for the next part of my day. They were also a perfect opportunity to step away from the screen, stretch, and refresh my mind. It’s amazing how a little bit of time dedicated to self-care can make such a big difference in our overall productivity and well-being.

In all transparency, balancing my responsibilities at Booz Allen Hamilton with the Develop Carolina program was no small feat. It felt like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle, but I am finding my rhythm and flow. Prioritizing tasks and staying organized were key. Knowing when to focus on one versus the other helped me manage my time and energy effectively. Despite my excitement, I couldn’t shake off the nerves and imposter syndrome. To keep them in check, I relied on positive self-talk, challenged the negative beliefs, and reminded myself that being nervous means I care about doing well.

Ultimately, I just wanted to be an asset to the team. I aimed to show my willingness to contribute and learn, bringing my best self to the table every day.

In conclusion, my first week at the host company was a stepping stone to many more achievements. By implementing these rituals and staying mindful of my emotions, I ensured a successful and fulfilling start. Here’s to new beginnings and making a mark in this exciting journey!