Each year, each month and each day presents new challenges and new opportunities to learn and grow.
As you navigate college life and start down your career path, knowing how to make the most of each day and handle challenging situations with grace and diligence will take you far. There are some things that will take you longer to learn than others, but here are some things you should consider pertinent in your young adult life.
Be enthusiastic in your endeavors.
Each day you spend in worry and sorrow is a day wasted. As you know, these days are never productive. When you embrace each morning with enthusiasm, you open yourself up to the beauty and delight each day has to offer. Even when it is difficult, smile. The days are a lot lighter and easier, for you and everyone you find yourself in the presence of when you do.
Choose to do the things that bring you the greatest joy.
In the words of the great philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string.” Don’t worry about what other people think of your lifestyle and career choices, even if others see what you are doing as menial or beneath you, if it brings you happiness, then it doesn’t matter.
Perseverance always pays off.
Sometimes we have to take on classes or jobs that aren’t easy or that we find less than enjoyable. Every challenge is an opportunity. Make the most of these classes and jobs, seeking to find a way to make them enjoyable and they will be easier to manage and get through. Without them, you can’t progress to the next level.
Know your priorities.
Say “no” when you have to. Putting yourself first isn’t selfish. Personal and professional growth is necessary. Saying “yes” to your friends and family all the time will drain you of your energy. It’s good to be there for others, but not at the expense of not reaching your goals as well as managing your own health and well-being.
Be confident, but be humble.
It’s okay to be assertive and confident, but it’s not okay to be rude or arrogant. It’s a fine line sometimes, but one that is important to learn. Approaching situations with integrity and compassion will gain you the respect and trust of those around you.
Surround yourself with positive people who support you and bring you encouragement.
Steer clear of people who are unwelcoming and negative. People with these types of attitudes seem to enjoy bringing others down to their level and will try to drag you down with them. You must not try to “solve” these people, you must leave it with them, let them figure it out for themselves. Life is too short to be in the presence of those that drain you of your productivity and excitement.
College life is stressful, and it doesn’t get any easier as you enter the career world.
Problems will always present themselves and you will be surrounded by a diverse mix of cultures and personalities. However, if you know how to stay positive, embrace your day with enthusiasm, surround yourself with people who encourage you, and pursue activities that bring you joy, your life will that much more fruitful and productive.
About the author:
Rachel Savering is a marketing student at Strayer University and will be graduating this spring with her Bachelor’s Degree. In addition to being a student, she is also in sales as an assistant manager and enjoys helping others. Rachel is passionate about writing as well as an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking and running.
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