Caitlin's getting a reality check and learning to relax

As I've settled more into life here I've become more used to “South African time” and with that has come the realization of just how hectic life is in the US. When I first got here the pace of life really bothered me- I’m a very busy person to begin with, and I get anxious if I’m not constantly doing things. Despite the fact that I’m often late for things in my personal life, the constant lateness of everyone else, even in academic and work settings, was something I had to adjust to! I’m also used to over scheduling myself at school, so I’m always trying to multitask and maximize every minute of my day. While I’m still a little hyperactive, being in Cape Town has calmed me down a bit and reminded me to enjoy life instead of worrying about being productive all the time. In the US, at least in the circles I’ve traveled in, there’s also a lot of emphasis placed on “success”- on winning, being the best, doing the most, and being recognized for it. There’s a lot of focus on prestige, money, and academic achievements. This could be just because I’m still in school and have never been in the “real world” before, but I think part of it is also the competitive culture in the States. I think Cape Town has given me a reality check in that regard, by exposing me to a lot of people who wouldn’t be considered “successful” by those standards but who are nonetheless positive, engaged citizens making a difference in their communities. It’s a reminder to me to check my judgments and resist stereotyping people based on their situations. And to relax!