Graduating from college can be one of the most thrilling and intimidating experiences in life. You’ve spent years dedicating yourself to achieving this goal and now you’re ready to take the next step. While knowing that you’ve earned your degree can — and should — make you feel excited and proud, there might also be a sense of anxiety that comes with facing the unknown.
One way to navigate these competing emotions is to channel your thoughts in a healthy way: Taking time to repeat a few positive statements each day might provide some encouragement and help guide your racing mind. Whether you speak them out loud or simply reflect on each idea, these affirmations are intended for you to slow down and remind yourself of your worth during your post-grad life:
“I have the tools to succeed.”
It can be easy to forget all that you’ve learned since you first began college. The knowledge you’ve compiled isn’t just limited to academics, either. Classroom study, work, relationships, and learning how to live independently are experiences that have likely challenged you and taught you how to overcome whatever is thrown your way. Going forward, remind yourself that you have these skills to tap into.
“It’s okay to ask for help when I need it.”
Asking for help is not a weakness. In fact, it shows a desire to improve and do better. Reaching out to those around you for support is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Who knows, you might be surprised by how this action embolds other people around you, and maybe they’ll feel safe enough to do the same.
“I will not allow rejection to discourage me.”
If you’re someone who has often heard the word “yes” when it comes to opportunities in college, it might be a bit of a shock to face rejection post-grad. It’s possible that you spend months applying to jobs without hearing back or to graduate programs that end up declining to admit you. Rejection can be difficult, but it’s also an important way to build resilience so that you can move on to the next great thing. Like asking for help, rejection is not failure. Rather, it’s redirection.
“My value is not defined by my achievements.”
Having an extensive résumé or racking up a list of accomplishments might seem like the most important thing to have done when you graduate. While you should be proud of what you’ve worked hard for and earned, it’s important to appreciate yourself beyond your achievements. Self-realization allows you to develop a sense of self that recognizes your worth beyond the superficial. With this kind of quiet confidence and belief in yourself, you can ultimately take on any challenge and pursue any goal.
“I will welcome new and unexpected opportunities.”
Some people might know what they’ve wanted to do with their lives since childhood. But for the rest of us who still don’t know what we want to be when we grow up, the endless possibilities might seem daunting. Instead of getting stuck in that fear, try turning that curiosity into an opportunity to explore. Work at different jobs, go back to school if you want to, travel, and don’t be afraid of doing something you never thought you would. These might be the learning moments that help you grow into a well-rounded person and find what you enjoy most.
“I will not be afraid of not having all the answers; I trust myself to find them.”
When you graduate, it can feel as though there is an expectation to “have it all figured out.” While you’ve definitely learned more about yourself during college, your life is just beginning in so many ways. Now is your chance to make choices and take risks when it comes to your career, meeting new people, and structuring your life the way you want it to be. There are still plenty of firsts to have and there may be times when you’re less prepared than you thought you’d be. Remember all that you didn’t know before this time in your life and how you learned to find answers. You’ll realize that you can rely on yourself to be resourceful again.
“I will trust my instincts when making difficult decisions.”
There will be plenty of decisions to make as you graduate and you’ll have to consider which next steps you want to take. Do you move to a new city? Do you consider graduate school? Are you exhausted and just want to take some time off? As you consider the different paths ahead of you, it’s important to listen to what your instincts tell you. This will help you develop confidence in yourself, which is a skill that you will need throughout life.
“I will listen to feedback and advice from others without losing my sense of self.”
Family, friends, advisers, and even strangers will have no shortage of advice to give you as a recent grad. While usually well-intentioned, sometimes this feedback might make you feel more unsure of yourself and your choices than before. One way to deal with this bombardment of ideas is to remember that you know yourself better than anyone else. You can listen to what others have to say without forgetting what you need to feel happy and successful.
“I will try to spend more time living in the present.”
There will always be a sense of nostalgia when you reflect back on your time in college and an excitement for what lies ahead when you consider the future. During the whirlwind of finishing your last few classes, it can be easy to get wrapped up in thinking about the past and what’s to come. But don’t forget to take in the wonder of the present. Enjoy your graduation and even the time after it by intentionally being present with your loved ones and appreciating the moments of joy.
“My existence matters and I will use it to do good.”
You’ve spent time in college figuring out who you are. And guess what — the learning doesn’t stop once you get your diploma. There is so much ahead of you in all aspects of your life and knowing that you matter in this world is essential. As long as you navigate your journey with a sense of integrity and a commitment to doing the right thing, you will undoubtedly leave a positive impact along the way.
As you reflect on these affirmations, remind yourself of all that empowers you. It’s normal to feel a mixture of emotions as you graduate and you should take time to sit with them as they arise. Remember that you are more capable than you realize and to not place limitations on yourself. Your adventure is just beginning, and you deserve to believe in every possibility that awaits you.