It’s graduation season! I’ve been thinking about the advice I want to share with the high school seniors I work with. These are some tidbits I’ve learned over my journey so far that I think would have been helpful and encouraging to hear at 18. So, for those about to venture out into the wild unknown:
1) It doesn’t end here. You probably are terrified at the thought of being thrust out into the world, and don’t feel up to the task. Know that you are an unfinished masterpiece, as we all are. At any age, you can change. You are not fated to a destiny based on what you know now and how you respond to life now. You can question long-held beliefs, learn new skills, and empower yourself in ways you could not have done as a child. You can change the way you react, and the way you operate in your relationships, and the way you care for yourself. You can rewrite the script if it doesn’t work for you. Which leads me to the idea that…
2) Knowledge really is power. When you learn about anything at all, whether it’s child-rearing or nutrition or relationships, you’re less afraid of what life will bring to you. Ask a lot of questions and hold out for satisfying answers. Keep learning about the things that help you navigate whatever situation you are in.
3) Feelings are not wrong. They are your internal weather. You can learn from what your feelings reveal to you; whether to take it easy, take action, continue doing what you’re doing, or look for guidance. No one can tell you that your feelings are wrong or bad. Allow them to come and pass, as they always do.
4) Self-care is critical (and it’s very good). Make continuous deposits into your tank so that you have the strength to give and to make good choices. When you take care of yourself emotionally, physically, and spiritually, you lift the burden of caring for you off the people in your life. This significantly benefits your relationships and allows you to live and give from a place of strength. Do what you enjoy, and treat yourself like someone who deserves to be well-cared for (because you are).
5) Life is not lived relative to anyone or anything. You are not just in your own lane, you are in your own race. I know this is totally new, coming out of high school and all, but comparisons are utterly meaningless – in terms of spiritual growth, or milestones reached, or money made or experiences accrued. Relinquish control and enjoy your own story as it wondrously unfolds.
Welcome to adulthood! You have what it takes to live a wonderful life.
Share with your favorite high school senior 🙂
What would you add?
