#jacobsmith

Before I start off with the main purpose of this blog, I would like to share what I have been doing for the past month since I have had many new experiences that were all extremely fun!

First off, I completed my freshman year at Johnson and Wales University. I must be honest, It was tough at times, but I definitely had a great first year, and I can’t wait to be back in Colorado. I am now back in Texas for the summer, but it seems like I’ve been gone for the majority of the time attending conferences, events, and trying my best to stay involved in what I love to do! So far it’s working out:) If you would like to see a few pictures from end of my freshman year, or pictures from the trips I’ve been on, check out my facebook page!

With that, I have to remind you all that my entire purpose for this blog is to encourage you all to change your perspective on life. I can definitely say that I have a completely different perspective on life due to the indescribable experiences that have evolved into meaning and value! I was invited a few weeks ago to speak at a 4th grade graduation. After I spoke, a few students came up to me and really wanted to hear more from me. As we continued to speak, I continued to think about this whole idea of “Changing Your Perspective”. I realized something….

We must not allow our perceptions to BLIND our perspective!

What do you think I mean by that? Well, it is very simple. It seems like we already have this view of how life is suppose to be. We are suppose to get an education, get a job, and then just work everyday. Right? There may be a few extra things on the list but I’m sure you already understand what I’m getting to. Society has created this perception about life that I do not agree with at all. We should be able to continually reflect back on our days and create our own perceptions! There is not reason to live a life based on how someone expects you to live your life.

Now you may think this is quite different considering that my goal is to become a youth motivational speaker, but I will always let anyone that I come in contact with know that it is their life, and their choices. They should have their own imagination, and do as much as possible to make it a reality. It’s not my job to tell anyone what life actually is. Especially since I am still trying to figure out:)

Your perspective of life involved your attitude, and how you view life to be. Your perception is how you choose to understand, and interpret life. Have your own way of life!

As always, below are a few photos that can hopefully show you how incredible the past month has been for me. Feel free to share this post with your family, friends, and colleagues.

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Commencement Address at Ramey Elementary

GDOF- Campus Greatest Day of Fun

Improving Colorado’s Road Health Summit

Brain Injury Awareness Month 2016

On April 12, 2014 my life changed completely.

I had just finished attending a state conference for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). That evening as we were driving home, the school vehicle I was in was hit head on by a distracted driver. I was in critical condition and immediately arlifted to the hospital for treatment. I sustained many injuries including a Traumatic Brain…

No matter how many times you wake up with a positive attitude, you must create the day you want to live.

I know I often speak about how fortunate I am to be alive, attending colllege on a full ride scholarship, and so much more. In spite of all that I have been through, I still must not  just think about the past. I have to make sure I am embracing the life that has been given to me.

Have you ever thought about doing something new? Changing your day up a bit? We all have our daily routine, but we sometimes never do anything new and outside of our routine. I encourage you all to go outside of your daily routine, and do something new.

I have taken out time during the past few weeks to do something new, and embrace life. Take a look at these great photos.

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I went to Comedy Work in Denver to ssee my favorite comedian, Drew Lynch.

The Broncos won! Went with a few friends to the Championship Parade!

We are all busy, but I believe we make time for what we want. Treat yourself to a comedy show with friends, or go out and volunteer for a local nonprofit organization. This is what I call embracing life.

“You’ll never be the person you were before, but you can always strive to better.” Those exact words that my occupational therapist said to me will always stick.

I have to be honest. I didn’t enjoy being in an inpatient rehab facility. I would have much rather been the person I was before. Who had the ability to do things on my own. Who was able to read a book, and watch a movie without having to…

Before I get into the heart of what I’d like to write about in this blog, I’d like to introduce myself.

I am a college freshman attending Johnson and Wales University majoring in Business Administration with a concentration in marketing and finance pursuing a dream of becoming a youth motivational speaker, and a career in traffic safety. My dream is to reach out and inspire youth nationwide to not settle for less, and continue to pursue their dreams no matter what comes in their way.

I come from a family of 5 which includes a twin brother and an older sister. I like to think that I have an amazing family that is strong and preserves through anything that comes our way. My siblings and I are all now separated due to us attending different universities, but we keep in touch and love each other more and more each day.

One my favorite quotes comes from Booker T. Washington, “Success is to be measured not so much by the position one has reached, as by the obstacles he has overcome”. This quote continually reminds me that we will all go through obstacles during our life, but it is those very obstacles that make us stronger, and can empower us to be more, and do more.

I will post much about my daily life, my journey as a Traumatic Brain Injury survivor , as well as life lessons, and many other things. I hope this is a place that brings inspiration and positive vibes to you!

Finally, a few photos of myself to put a face to these words. :)