With finals being over and graduation right around the corner, it forces me to think about the future and what lies ahead. For some, their next step is clearly lined up. For others, me being part of that, the next step is not so clear. It was a lot easier graduating from high school. It was the general consensus that college follows high school. There is no general consensus for the next step following college. While I am incredibly excited to have reached this milestone, I am also very nervous for the future.
I know I am not alone in this situation.
Whether you are looking ahead to graduation, like I am, or facing another major milestone- the uncertainty of what’s next can really be overwhelming.
What should we do?
What will our lives be like?
What if I never figure it out?
As much as I wish it weren’t true sometimes, these questions never really disappear from our lives. There will always be a new milestone or a new opportunity to consider. Graduation is just one of many other moments in my life that will leave me wondering about the changes ahead. But I’ve learned that we don’t have to be so afraid of what’s next, even if we don’t know exactly what that is.
For those of you who are worried about the next step in your lives, here are some tips for getting through it.
Do not over-think it.
When you are constantly thinking about worrisome situations, you make yourself stress out too much. Take a step back and focus on what you have going on in the moment.
Remember that things have a funny way of working themselves out.
Do not feel like your life is over and that you have no options. Something will come along. Do not settle for things that make you unhappy either. Make sure you make decisions that will brighten up your life.
Think about your resources.
Somewhere along the way, you met people that could change your life, whether you know it at the time or not. Start taking notice of the people you pass along in life. These people could be connections to a great future. Do not forget your friends and family as well. These people are your greatest assets. Do not be afraid to reach out to them for help. They could give advice or open doors to various opportunities and adventures.
Do not be afraid of change.
Life was not meant to be constant. Life was meant to challenge you and take you on an adventure. Do not settle for comfort. Take risks, take chances. Changes in life can be for better or for worse, but you will never know unless you take that leap of faith.
As my graduation day approaches, I try to keep these thoughts in mind whenever the future pops into my head. I have no idea what is in store for me. That makes me really nervous, but also very curious.
I am excited to see what lies ahead for me. I know the waiting will bring moments of anxiety, but I also am very sure that I will end up somewhere that I want to be.
Everything is up to me, and I am excited to see what comes my way.