Just in Time for Graduation
Graduating forty years ago
qualifies me for some nifty senior discounts. But it also comes with some
hard-earned lessons.
Here’s some advice I wish I could have given my 18-year-old
graduating self:
You were successful in
school, but you can’t be afraid to fail. Lessons from failure teach things
books never will.
The classroom isn’t the only place to learn. Life teaches
unforgettable lessons.
But there is a distinction
between unforgettable lessons and regrettable ones. Often the regrettable lessons
involve poor choices. (Like your choice to drink alcohol on that school trip).
You discovered that you can
make the choices, but the consequences are yours too. (Like losing a
scholarship because of the alcohol mishap. While it hurts now, this lesson will
help you).
Ask questions—it helps avoid costly mistakes. (Like before using the expensive equipment at the research laboratory where you’ll soon be working).
You’re lucky that you
graduated in 1976. Today’s students are bombarded with constant comparisons via
Facebook and Instagram—the purveyors of social media envy. You couldn’t have
handled it. See, you were born in the right era.
You are also fortunate that
no one had cell phone cameras. All the stuff you and your friends did are just
memories. Now everything is instantly posted and lasts FOREVER.
Use that box of fancy
embossed Thank You cards. Thank
everyone for their gifts and just as important, thank the teachers who made
your graduation possible.
Make writing thank you notes a lifelong habit.
You also need to learn the
art of apology—especially for those times when you know you’re right but your relationships
matter more. The people in your life will give you plenty of practice.
Finally, about money: pay
your bills (on time) and save for emergencies. You’ll work hard to get money, but
how you spend it causes the most arguments with those you love.
Which leads me to probably
the most important thing I learned:
When given the choice to make
more money and be stressed or be happier with less, I suggest choosing being
happier with less. But maybe that’s just me (or actually you, in about 15
years).
For post graduates, what
piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Then you will have hope for the
future, and your wishes will come true. Proverbs 23:18
The future lies before you
Like a field of driven snow,
Be careful how you tread it,
For every step will show.
~Author Unknown