Back to Blogging: Life Updates & Big Goals

 Man, it feels like forever since I last wrote for my blog! I usually have scheduled posts and try to batch-write to stay ahead, but life has been full of chaos lately. Between Valentine’s Day at the florist, wrapping up my first term at WGU, and applying to Capella University (which I start on 03/03!), I’ve barely had a moment to breathe. On top of that, I’ve been pushing hard to earn more credits toward my bachelor’s degree so I can graduate faster.

The Hustle Never Stops

Capella offers free classes through Sophia Learning for enrolled students, and let me tell you—I jumped on that opportunity. I’ve already completed eight classes there, which means I’m moving even closer to my goal. My schedule has been non-stop:

• Wake up at 7:00 AM

• Be at work by 9:00 AM

• Leave at 2:30 PM (except for Valentine’s week, when I stayed until 5:00 PM)

• Do school all night

Since January 1st, I haven’t gone a single day without doing school. Am I exhausted? Yes. Do I need a break? Absolutely. But can I stop myself from pushing forward? Nope! My plan is to graduate as early as possible, dive straight into my master’s degree, and finish that by early 2026. Crazy? Maybe. But if you know me, you know that once I set a goal, I won’t stop until I reach it. And honestly, I think it’s an amazing goal to chase!

Life Outside of School (Sort Of)

In other news, I’m sick again with laryngitis. Fun times. But honestly, not being able to talk is probably a blessing in disguise because it keeps me focused.

Last night, I actually took a little break and went to a Galentine’s event with some friends. It reminded me that I really do need to get out more because I’ve been practically glued to my house for the past six months, just grinding away at school. Thankfully, as an introvert, that doesn’t really bother me.

However, the one downside to my school-first lifestyle is that I haven’t been able to read anything. My brain just won’t focus on a book, and honestly, that makes me sad. Last year, I read 54 books, and I set a goal of 75 books this year—but so far, I’ve read exactly zero. I have so many other goals that I’m chasing, so I can’t be too upset with myself, but I really miss reading. Books are everything to me!

Maybe once I finish my degree and jet off to Europe, I’ll finally have a summer to read before my master’s program starts. Who knows? We shall see!

Wrapping It Up

I just wanted to check in and give a little update for those of you who actually keep up with my posts. Thank you for following along with my chaotic little life—I appreciate you! More updates coming soon, and hopefully, I’ll have some fun things to share along the way!

Payton Blackwood