DD is back after a month-long hiatus with an incredible interview from multi-hyphenate Jasmine Nguyen. In this Advice Column, Jas shares how she gets through her to-do list as a labor delivery nurse, content creator, AND 20 something (Oh, and how you can too).
Have you ever scrolled through Instagram, stumbled upon someone you follow, and wondered, how do we have the same 24 hours in our days? That's how I feel whenever scrolling through @jasminewiin's stories/page (in the most positive way). Seeing her social media highlights always gives me a kick in the butt to go out and make the most of the day. Why? Because if she can keep organized, post branded content, deliver babies- and get a workout in, I can finish my "get done ASAP" list. She's a bada**, and I am so grateful that she agreed to come on DD and share with us all her tips. Because although we are now rolling into March, it is never too late to start new resolutions and habits to better yourself.
DD: Introduce yourself to our Dear Diary readers.
Jasmine Nguyen: "Hi, Dear Diary XO Readers! I'm Jas, a Philadelphia-based labor and delivery nurse who runs the lifestyle IG @jasminewiin. I'm originally from Lancaster, PA, and moved to Philly for college. I can't believe it has already been ten years since I've moved here!"
DD: You are a labor and delivery nurse by day (and night) and a blogger in between. How did you come to be both?
Jas: "When I was 10, I got to go into the delivery room when my aunt delivered my cousin. I remember standing there like, 'holy sh*t, this is INSANE!' but I loved every moment of it. I saw how my aunt was pushed far beyond her limits, and I saw how supportive the nurses were during such a vulnerable time. I actually videotaped it with a tape recorder, kind of crazy to think about since that isn't allowed anymore! I would say that is what sparked my interest in labor and delivery, and then nursing clinical solidified that decision!"
"It's funny- in nursing school, I would joke around with my classmates, 'use code Jas10 for 10% off your coffee.' Fast forward to taking my story to IG of getting laid off from Hahnemann Hospital and discussing the reality of being a novice nurse excited to start practicing all to get laid off within the first five months. I was so shocked by the overwhelming support I received from people. Some people I didn't even know! It was all so comforting. Then one day, I was sitting in the kitchen with my roommate, and she was telling me I should start blogging because every time I find something I love, I have to tell everyone and their mom about it! She kept telling me what you have to lose, just go for it! In my head, I was like, really?! Who will care what products I like or restaurants I love!? Fast forward to today, and I can't believe how far I've come. I wish I would've had more confidence in myself to start sooner."
DD: What is the hardest part about managing your full-time job, content creation, partnerships, living a healthy lifestyle, and managing your relationships/personal life?
Jas: "TIME! It always feels like time flies, and there aren't enough hours in the day to get everything I want to be done. Therefore, I have really leaned into my planner (aka what I call my bible). I am a paper and pen gal. If it isn't written down, it doesn't exist! Planning everything out from scheduling to deadlines, and time blocking for self-care / making time for others is how I manage!"
DD: Do you believe in resolutions? Why or why not?
Jas: "I do! Obviously, I am a firm believer that you can ignite change at any moment in your life, but I understand how these holidays can be a good piece of motivation for people. I feel like it has always served as a gentle reminder to people, "new year, new opportunity to start something," kind of like on valentine's day, we are reminded to take care of ourselves or be more intentional about sending love to others!"
DD: Best tips and tricks for organizing, especially while sticking to a resolution or new habit?
Jas: "PLANNER!! I've used Erin Condren planners practically my entire life. I love how customizable they are! I've recently invested in a paper planner ( it's much smaller). Going to give this one a try!"
"NOTEBOOK! A huge believer in to-do lists. When you have it written down, you are putting it into existence, and you will more likely get it done! Plus, how good does it feel to check it off your list!!!!"
DD: Any tools, apps, or accessories you recommend for staying organized?
Jas: "I really love the "To-Do List" app to make quick lists on the go. I use this for grocery shopping or planning out what I need to pack for a trip!"
"I also admire a good organized system when it comes to anything in life. Not only is it super satisfying to channel your inner Marie Kondo, but it helps make things easier to find and keeps you on track!"
DD: Advice you wish you knew in your early twenties as a post-grad?
Jas: "Everyone has some sort of debt. After graduating college, I remember having panic attack after panic attack and realizing my student loans were about to kick in for repayment. I was like, how am I ever going to repay these loans? Who will ever want to marry me with this kind of debt? The list goes on and on with what I would tell myself. It was so scary! However, I have come to realize that it is just a part of life and, to be honest, everyone has some sort of debt, whether it be from student loans or credit cards. As long as you make a plan on how you are going to budget and pay, you will be OKAY!!"
DD: Now, for our final question of each interview, what now?
Jas: "I love where I am in life right now! I am hungry to learn and continue to be a better version of myself. I am still navigating the crazy world of labor and delivery, continuously being a better nurse for my patients. I am also still learning about this crazy blogging world. I am currently brainstorming ways to continue to grow as a content creator. Hopefully, I will launch some sort of product in the next year!"
XO