Twenty-eight years ago, I walked across the stage and was handed my high school diploma. At 17 I had the whole world ahead of me and truthfully the only thing I was certain about is that my life would be far away from central Oregon and that there had to be more to life than milking cows. The take-home lessons that I share with my children is it’s okay to get outside your comfort zone and your zip code and never say never.
This past weekend, I was weepy eyed as I watched my oldest son, Tyler, graduate from high school. As any mother will tell you, it all happens in a blink of an eye. As a parent, you question if you have taught them all that there is to know and if they are prepared for all that life will hand them. Then you realize that part of going through life is learning through life.
I think of the advice I offer to Tyler and other graduates who are ready to start a new life chapter. These are my top five.
- Hit the pause button. Power down and unplug every now and then. Look up and take in the view. Don’t focus so hard on getting to the destination that you forget to enjoy the journey.
- Comparison is a thief of joy. It’s easy to become envious with jealousy. Others might experience their life highlight now and yours is yet to come. Don’t compare. Stay in your lane and be patient.
- Extend grace to yourself. We are all human. Mistakes will happen. Learn from them and move on.
- Say yes to opportunity. Make connections and realize that networking happens everywhere. The answers might not be immediate, but introducing your hand into a formal introduction and showcasing your passion for life connects you to more opportunities than you ever realize.
- Discover your why. When we find our passion and then follow it, we lead a purpose-filled life. One that brings joy to your hearts and intention to the world. Go find yours.
As we started Tyler’s senior year, I told him to take it one step at a time so it wouldn’t be so overwhelming. Now, I realize this advice was more of a pep talk to myself.
I could not be prouder of my now 18-year-old son. Tyler’s future is bright. He plans to head to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in August to study Agriculture Business and play football as a linebacker.
What additional pieces of advice would you offer to a recent graduate? Drop me a note in the comments below.
