“What are your plans now that you’re about to graduate?” A simple question that has the power to make you feel that your world is crumbling at your feet.
Graduation is closer than ever and you think you’ve got it all figured out, then someone asks you that million-dollar question and all you can think of is What am I doing with my life? Where do I start? Where am I headed? A myriad of questions spirals in your mind, desperate for some kind of an answer.
It’s not easy being in your shoes right now. It’s a bitter-sweet time when you feel happy and sad and everything in between. But guess what? You’re not alone.
“What is the right answer?” you ask. Well, I believe there is no direct answer but if there’s one thing I’m certain of, it’s: worry not. Here’s a piece of advice from a soon-to-be graduate to another.
It’s okay to be unsure.
Take a step back and decide what’s the next best step for you.
It’s okay if you don’t get it right the first time.
Life is a roller coaster and after all, you’ll be working for the next 40 years or so, you’ll have plenty of time to find your way.
It’s okay to feel lost, to cry and lose track of your plans.
The funny thing about plans is that they don’t always work out the way we want them to – and more often than not, for the best.
It’s okay if you haven’t figured it all out yet, you just have to be working on creating something of importance; not of importance to anyone but you.
Remember, once you graduate, things beyond your scope of finding a job – and yourself – will come your way but once again, worry not. You’re only young once. You have your entire life ahead of you. Nothing has been taken away.
Also, bear in mind that the day you graduate is called commencement day for it is the commencement of a new journey. A journey in which you join the real world. So for now, take a moment to realize how far you’ve come and all that you’ve accomplished. Be proud and say to yourself “I did it!”
