I love the analogy of comparing the real world to a dark room. The educational system is there to provide light and prepare us for the darkness. Each person experiences a different amount of light, but we are all feeling around hoping that one day we will understand and see it all. Being thrown out into the dark room myself, I have put together a list of 3 principles to keep in mind as you wander aimlessly in the real world.
Bet on yourself
Facebook leads us to believe that everybody else loves what they do, has everything figured out, and hangs out with actual lions all day. I’m here to tell you that nobody’s life is perfect. And you shouldn’t compare yourself to everyone else.
Set your own goals, bet on yourself, and enjoy the perks that come with achieving those goals. Create a contagious confidence that attracts and inspires others. Surround yourself with like-minded and intelligent individuals. If you aren’t betting on yourself, who will?
Challenge yourself
Although not my case, working a 9 to 5, button mashing, isolated job could be your worst nightmare. However, you might have to start there to get into the role you really want. Post college is a time where you should embrace and seek out opportunities to fail. Put yourself out there, take chances, and meet as many people as you can along the way.
Come up with a process to constantly question if there is a better or faster way. Strive to be different and strive to improve. Don’t let yourself get complacent and constantly seek out learning opportunities. Get out there and create the best version of “you”!
Find yourself
This may be the most important of all three. The real world may be overwhelming, but it allows for plenty of opportunities to try new things and find out about yourself. Experiment, travel, volunteer, and learn about the working world and where you fit in. Finding what you don’t like is equally as important as finding what you do like.
This isn’t a 12 step guide on how to make your life better. This is just three basic principles I believe are key to a happy transition into real life. Go out there and find yourself, take risks, and bet on yourself to make the best of them.
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Stay casual until next Tuesday!
EVB
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