In the Spotlight

Members of the Interactive Measurement Group are identifying and pursuing their individual goals and helping others to do the same:

• Lab News: Mindfulness meditation and new computers helped us design climate change research and complete several posters
• J.D. Watts pursued his goal of becoming a software developer
• Fitsum Ayele completed the Diversifying I-O Psychology scholars program
• As the UNLV Law School Director of Externships, Dawn Nielsen is connecting students with mentors

A Big Change is Easier than a Small One: Changing My Habits by Changing My Identity
by Gemma Ortega

Do you have habits that conflict with the person you want to be? As discussed by James Clear in his book Atomic Habits, our habits are often a direct extension of how we view ourselves. If you want to change your habits, you may have to change aspects of your identity. Gemma shares how identifying herself as a successful student allowed her to build habits that match that identity.

Finding My Focus
by Susan Gutierrez

Do you ever have trouble focusing on the task at hand? Although it can be difficult to avoid distractions – both internal and external – being able to focus is essential for success in our academic and professional lives. Susan shares how selecting the right environment, clearing the clutter out of her mind, and scheduling her breaks enabled her to successfully focus and do her best work.

The Benefits of Leaving Your Comfort Zone
by Zain Raja

Have you ever let fear of the unknown keep you from seizing an opportunity? Leaving your comfort zone can be scary, but it can also launch you toward achieving your goals. Zain shares how Jia Jiang’s Rejection Proof: How I Beat Fear and Became Invincible Through 100 Days of Rejection encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone, take chances, and not let his fear of uncertainty stand in the way of success.

Socializing Made Me Whole
by Jelsy Cadenas-Santos

When we are busy, we often put off socializing with friends and family. However, that can make us lonely, like something is missing. Jelsy shares how making time for important relationships has improved her health and made her feel deeply happy.

Communication: You Get Out of it What You Put into It
by Cassandra K. Hoffman

Communicating is hard under the best of circumstances. Then add jet-lag, unfamiliar environments, cultural differences, and a language barrier: obstacles Cassandra overcame during her first trip to Europe. She realized the more you make an effort – learning to say hello and thank you and excuse me, gesturing and pointing when words fail – the better experience everyone will have.