As a senior graduating in May, I had one of those late-night shower thoughts about how there is so much I wish I had known when I started this journey four years ago. So, I have decided to make this series about things I want to share with anyone who still has time left in college, anyone about to embark on their college journey as you’re choosing where you will go after high school, or truly anyone graduating and can still benefit from these lessons I’ve learned.
Be Kind to Yourself
Today I want to focus on being kind to yourself in regards to what you define as your success. As a scholar on a full-ride scholarship, I thought I had to do everything and be the best at everything right from the get-go. While this behavior benefited me and my resume definitely shows the results of that hard work, I now know that growth into each phase of your life is critical to maintaining your life happiness.
I started so many extracurriculars, from independent neuroscience research to being the Director of Events for HCCU, and while I have loved every step of this journey, there were so many times I felt overwhelmed and felt like I had to meet success along an invisible and unattainable timeline. But when I stepped back, I realized no one had set a timeline I had to meet, and I could do everything in the time that was right for me. It led me to all of the success I have achieved in college.
This time in life is about finding yourself and discovering who you want to be and what fulfills you, so take the time to show yourself kindness; take a break, say no, and take a deep breath while you pursue your passions.