Soo… what’s next?
Right now, like many others, I’m about to be out of school and at a major crossroads in my life. I’m in this weird limbo where I find myself dodging my family members’ prying questions and obsessively stalking potential employers on LinkedIn. I’m just getting over the thought that my year-long graduate program is quickly coming to an end. This is all happening so fast!
Sound familiar? Yeah, I thought so… I’ve been doing some serious soul searching over the past couple months and I’ve come to the conclusion you don’t need to have your next 1..2..5 years planned out. And here’s why…
There Is No Formula for Life, It Just Happens
Whether we’re ready for it or not, life goes on and we’ve either got to keep up or catch up. It’s great that some people know exactly what they want to do after graduation, but a lot of people have no idea what their next steps are, and that’s okay too! For me, searching for a full-time job has become a full-time job. I find myself scouring online job boards for hours on end and getting frustrated real fast. Things are going to happen for a reason and the right job, relationship, etc will happen when it’s meant to happen. Just be patient.
Rediscover Yourself
While the post-grad experience has been labeled as a transitional period, I think of it more as a transformational period. Having been through this once before after my undergrad, I’m excited to find out the things I’ll learn about myself this time around. This is the time for us to rediscover who we are and what we want. Think… is there something you’ve always wanted to do but never gave yourself the time to do it? Now is the time! Take a yoga class, write an e-book or learn how to cook. Travel the world, or at least outside your comfort zone.
Don’t Settle
Never be afraid to take risks. Follow your passions because they could turn into a career you love. Don’t take anyone else’s opinions too seriously because the only opinion that really matters is your own. The people who truly are meant to be in your life will accept and support any decision you make. If you know you’re not going to be happy with a job, don’t take it and wait for the next one. Opportunities will always arise. There are no wrong decisions when it comes to figuring out your life, but the truth is you do have to decide. I believe in creating your own future and success. Just remember, this is your life, do not settle for anything less than happiness.