深めて！南山GLS　学生の活躍　学生コラム

ライティングセンターTA：CYT

　Studying abroad can be an exciting but challenging experience. Many students, including myself, often focus so much on academics and finances that we forget to take care of our mental health. Through my study abroad journey in Japan, I realised how important it is to find something that makes me truly happy and something that helps me relax, smile, and stay myself even in difficult times.

　In spring 2024, I came to Japan to study abroad. It was my first time living far away from home and completely by myself. Before coming to Japan, I had studied Japanese for one and a half years at a language school in my country, so I thought I was well-prepared. However, once I actually started my new journey here, things did not go as smoothly as I expected. There were many unexpected challenges, such as cultural differences, daily life problems, and financial responsibilities. Since my family was not here to support me, I had to rely entirely on myself. Although I was grateful for the opportunity to study abroad, I started to feel that something was missing from my life.

　During my first year, I focused only on studying and completing assignments. I spent most of my time in the classroom, learning commons, or library, even on weekends. I was busy and productive, but I did not feel happy at all. I felt constantly tired, unmotivated, and stressed. Although I had friends around me, everything felt too heavy. Sometimes I needed to step away and spend time alone because I realised I was not okay inside. It was a dark period in my life where I was doing my best academically, but I completely forgot to take care of my heart and my mind.

　As time passed, I started to understand that I could not continue living like that. In my second year, I made a small but important change, and that was when everything began to improve. I started to find a better balance between my studies, part-time job, and personal life. Around that time, I began to do 推し活 again.

　When I was a child, I loved supporting my favourite idols. Watching their performances and listening to their songs always cheered me up, especially during stressful times at school. After I came to Japan, I was too busy to continue, so I lost touch with that part of myself. One day, during the school break, I happened to watch a new performance video of my 推し. Seeing their smiles and energy reminded me of how much joy they had given me over the years. I remembered how happy and excited I used to feel when I supported them, but I had lost that sparkle since coming to Japan. That one moment made me recognise how important my hobby was in keeping me positive.

　Since I am on a budget and busy, I try to enjoy everything at once. When I go to a concert, I treat it as a short trip where I can visit new places, enjoy the scenery, and try local food. If I have an assignment due around that time, I finish it in advance so I can enjoy the trip without stress. Even though I have become busier than before, I feel more fulfilled and motivated. These small moments of happiness keep me moving forward and give me energy. I have learned that doing what I love helps me release stress and recharge my mind. Many people around me said I looked happier, brighter, and more confident this year, which made me understand how much I had grown.

　I also started to notice the small happy moments in my daily life, like the jokes my friends make, the beautiful street view, or the tasty cakes at a café.  As I paid more attention to these small joys around me, I learned to appreciate the little things that bring colour to my life and make it brighter. Little by little, I realised that happiness does not always come from big events. It can also be found in the simple moments that make everyday life feel special.

　In the end, I discovered that being busy and productive does not mean being happy. Life can be harsh and full of obstacles, but it is too short to spend it only chasing success or feeling down. Finding something that makes you happy, no matter how small it seems, can give you strength, hope, and balance in life. Now, I try to enjoy every moment, take breaks when I need them, and remind myself that happiness is not a luxury. It is something that everyone deserves and something we should always protect.

 

So, find something that makes you happy!

Be positive, be kind to yourself, and don't forget to smile :)