Since graduating, I’ve thought a lot about the last few months of college and where I’m at now. Like the stress of having to find a job, who was going to attend my graduation ceremony, what dress I was going to put under that awful blue robe that no one would be able to see anyway, and how the heck I was eventually going to have to pay for things (hello, new clothes because shopaholic). Plus, the constant questions as soon as you see your family of, “Where are you off to next?” or “Do you have a job lined up?” or “Are you dating anyone yet?” Still get that last one from the grandparents, but gotta love em right? Sorry g’ma, no great grandkids for you anytime soon.
Anyway, we LOVE having to prepare for those types of questions when attending family gatherings or stopping by the grandparents’ house. And even though the relatives seem like they are asking simple life questions, these are questions that can affect us the most. Especially with those who have no idea what their future holds or if they’re struggling to find a job.
I want to let you in on a little secret though… It’s okay not to know! Sometimes it might feel like you should have a plan or be at the same level as your peers, but it’s 1,000% okay not to be. Every person has a unique life path that they’re on. Not one person’s experience will ever be the same as another. That’s what makes us so special. If you work hard, are motivated, and passionate about wanting a great future, you will get one. Never feel like you’re behind just because all your friends are getting jobs while you’re still struggling to find one.
Believing that everything happens for a reason has gotten me to where I’m at today. When I was worried about my future, I went right back to my belief. It’s taught me to never constantly stress over my future. Yes, I’m human, obviously I get moments on the verge of a breakdown because of things I am worried or stressed about. But, they only end up lasting a few moments, because I make sure to take a step back and understand that life will take me where it needs to. Especially if you’ve worked hard and believe in yourself. We honestly never have control over the timing of our lives, so why stress about it? I’ve seen successful women and men struggle for the longest time trying to start a career and not having it go exactly as planned. But as they got more experience and were face with more obstacles, they finally ended up moving past those hardships and became successful. And trust me, there are so many jobs out there, it would be impossible for you not to get something. Even if you’re starting on the low end of the totem pole, you have every chance to climb up to the top or to whatever level you want to be at. The only limitation is your mind and having that fear and worry overcome you.
Looking back, I’m glad I didn’t lose sleep overthinking things I have no control over. So, instead of stressing about your future, wake up each morning with a positive attitude, doing the best you can, and looking FORWARD to your future. Perfect your resume, make multiple cover letters, set goals to apply for a certain amount of jobs per day, and continue to keep that drive into any interview and any job you get. All it takes is you. Don’t let worrying about where you’re going consume your life. As Van Wilder once said, “Worrying is like a rocking chair. It keeps you busy, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.” Focus on the now and trying your absolute best each and every day. I promise you’ll be taken places you could’ve never imagined.
Pro Tip: Next time you have to face the family questions, don’t make the answer hard. Simply tell them that you’re still figuring it out, but are excited to see where you end up. Then, grab yourself a tallll glass of wine and walk away 😉
HelloHollie 