There are certain experiences everyone goes through in college. Some, like late night pizza and pulling all-nighters, are more widely discussed (or posted on social) than others. No matter how “put together” you may appear, there will be a moment (or more likely, moments) where you feel, well, a bit lost. There is rarely someone who knows exactly who they are, who they want to be, and even more so how to bridge the gap between the two.
These moments of unknowing are not without merit. Think about it: you leave high school and are thrown into a world full of new people, opportunities, and freedom. It’s as intimidating as it is invigorating, and for many, it’s a time devoted to truly discovering your full potential and becoming the person you aspire to be.
With the real world approaching faster than ever, many of us are completely avoiding the thought of adulting and being a real person. Instead, we’re using the last few semesters we have to expand our minds, to find ourselves, and pave the way toward our futures. So if you’re anything like us, and recognize the small gap between where you are and where you want to be, what’s stopping you?
Here’s six steps to bring you closer to your desired destiny. (Photo via @samanthaneira)
Love Yourself— Self love is the first step toward a positive mentality and future. And while our brains are always so critical of failure, it’s important to train our minds to instead, be grateful. So often we find ourselves envying others that we forget the personal talents, beauty, and brilliance we’re made up of. So it’s important to remember, on both on and off days, to admire how special you are when you look in the mirror. You are your own soulmate. (Photo via @jaidabrinkley)
Set Goals— It’s easy to forget to make time to catch up with yourself, process where you’re at, and recognize where you want to be. So establishing a plan, making a list, and setting goals is key. With ambition, comes accomplishments.
Challenge Yourself— Although your comfort zone is dreamy af, nothing ever seems to grow there, and as an experience-hungry millennial, you’re crazy if you don’t take every opportunity you’re given and make the most of it. Your 20s are prime time for risky, unstable decision-making and putting yourself out there is all part of the awkward discovery. Whether that means breaking out of your shell and traveling to new territory or finally publishing a personal piece after years of preparation; no matter the circumstances, you’ll be surprised with what you learn about yourself in the process. (Photo via @luxbylily)
Use Your Resources— Universities offer thousands of options right at your fingertips, so why not take advantage? You aren’t paying thousands of dollars just to nap in-between classes. Instead, take a detour and stop in the career expo department for extra advice on your resume; having a bad day? drop by the counseling center to clear your head and gain a professional perspective; or simply join a new club on campus and get involved. The options are endless, just grab an extra cup of coffee and look for them.
Be Present— As tempting as it is, putting down your phone and exposing yourself in the moment can be so rewarding, giving you the opportunity to learn from the people around you and gain as much insight as the world has to offer. So next time you’re out, keep social media to a minimum, and live out loud. It seems so simple, but is forgotten so frequently. (Photo via @lovelyykelly)
Let Go— While every relationship appears to be made up of good intensions, some strip you of the best version of yourself along the way. Negativity has a way of dragging you backwards instead of forwards, and you simply don’t have time for that. Don’t set yourself on fire to keep others warm. Relationships involve mutual appreciation, and although your heart wants to see the best in everyone, your wellbeing is a priority above all. So know your boundaries, and never compromise a positive headspace for a toxic connection.
(Photo via @gabscherer)
No matter what place you’re at in your journey, be easy, take your time, and remember, you are coming home…. to yourself. It’s time to start living, and spend time just doing you.
How do you quiet the noise and embrace your potential? Share your tips in the comments below.
