This Is The Most Important Question People Forget All-Too Often

By

You’ve probably read a lot of articles on graduation lately since it is that time of year where a new graduating class is tossed into the real world. Around this time, people reminisce on the past four years and contemplate if they are on the “right” path in their life. I am sure many would have to agree with me that the idea of graduating is just plain weird. It’s like we are stuck in-between wanting to see what our future holds, which gives us this excitement to finally be entering the real world, but then we realize that we are actually leaving. Leaving the people that have become a part of our lives and the place we have called home for four years. I think that is what life is all about though. Change. It seems to me, change is what makes everyone’s story unique and builds character in each person I have met. As our friendships may become long distance, memories will never fade. What we have learned in college will stay with us the rest of our lives and help us become the best version of ourselves. All those late nights studying hopefully will land us a career we love. All those late nights out on the town hopefully will have taught us what our limits are.

The most important question that people forget about is, “What makes you happy?” Do not accept a job offer just to feel the security behind having one. Instead, find enjoyment in knowing that you can do and be just about anything you put your mind to after graduation. It is normal to feel confused about what lies ahead next in life, but that confusion is what brings spontaneity and adventure in figuring out what makes you happy. For what does make you happy is an important answer in figuring out who, what, when, where, and why. Graduation is a great accomplishment but also is an important stepping-stone to solidifying your path to what is going to mold the beginnings of your life. That’s right, I said beginning. For those who are upset about feeling old, let’s put into perspective that even though life is oh so short, we are only just about to experience what it is like living in the real world. It’s a fresh start where many will make new friends, explore new cities, and add several life long memories to the ones they have already accumulated. This is the time to figure out what you want to do, who you want to be with, and how you’re going to live life to its fullest.

With that being said, sometimes the pressure of life complicates things when really they’re quite simple. For example: If you can’t stop thinking about it, don’t stop working for it and never let the odds keep you from doing what you know you are meant to do. I’ve seen and experienced first hand how stress can affect day-to-day sleeping habits and since rest is a valuable thing, we all become frustrated when it is not attainable. Are you one of those people that can’t sleep at night but can’t wake up in the morning? If so, the next time you cannot fall asleep due to stress over what’s next to come in your life, try to focus your energy on things that are going to make you happy. Whether that is big dreams, good music, or expensive taste…think about it! As a French proverb once said best, “There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience.”