Our generation was raised to be ambitious, goal-oriented, and fearless. This is an amazing thing; young people, especially girls, need to be encouraged to reach their full potential.
However, sometimes, all of that can become overwhelming. I know that I often obsess over what I should be doing or where I should be in life so much that it makes me anxious.
I’ve realized that I have been confusing the dreams and desires I have for regulations. I made them into things that I have to do and placed my worth on whether I did them, or was on track to do them, or not. I admit, I still get flustered when I change my mind about something pertaining to my future; seeing my plans rearranged is hard because I like to feel in control. However, giving yourself the space to grow and change is a must, and will give you more fulfillment than accomplishing something that you’re no longer passionate about ever will.
It’s important to be flexible with your plans; many times, things will not quite go your way. Something that I have been learning is that you can’t make a setback into a failure. Remember, you always have a choice in the matter: you can either find another way to make it happen, or move on to something different, and possibly better.
For worriers out there like myself, I suggest making vision boards or lists. However, instead of comprising them of long-term goals, fill them with monthly goals. This way, you’ll be able to tackle things on a smaller scale. Monthly goals help you focus on the current state of your life, and puts things into a perspective that’s a little easier to grasp. Sometimes those that can be “overachievers” really need to ground themselves in the present.
There’s no need to put unnecessary pressure on yourself. Our best is all we have to give in this confusing world, and that is enough.