Wisdom for Graduates from an Old Dog
To those graduating this spring, perhaps some helpful wisdom from an old dog.
As you reflect on the past 18-22 years, you've begun to shape your identity. Some of you are still exploring, while others feel they've narrowed it down. The fascinating thing about life is that it's a continuous journey of growth and discovery, both professionally and personally. This journey doesn't end at retirement; it evolves throughout your entire life.
Embrace new opportunities and remain open to change. Your perspectives will shift as you experience different facets of life. It's essential to keep exploring, trying new things, and documenting your interests and skills. Here are some steps to guide you:
Create Lists:
1. What you enjoy doing: Identify activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
2. What you want to try: Note down things that intrigue you and you’d like to experience.
3. Suggestions from others: Consider recommendations from friends and family about what they think you might enjoy.
4. Your strengths: Recognize what you’re good at and where your talents lie.
5. Learnings and interests: Reflect on what you’ve learned and what you’re curious about.
Periodic Reflection:
Set aside time at different milestones (e.g., 25 years old, 30 years old, or when significant life changes occur such as relationships evolving, job satisfaction waning, or other pivotal moments) to reflect on these questions and update your lists. I would do this more frequently earlier in life, which may help you make future choices faster.
By consistently evaluating and documenting your interests and skills, you'll gradually define "who you are" and "where you're going." Initially, it might not seem clear, but as you look back later in life, you'll be able to connect the dots and understand how you arrived at your current position.
This process of self-discovery and reflection will help you make informed decisions and may lead to a fulfilling life. Keep exploring, stay curious, and embrace the journey ahead.
The Point:
The main takeaway is the importance of periodically re-evaluating your decisions and paradigms. Are you on the right path? Are your choices leading to fulfillment and success?
In your career and life, it's crucial to pause and reflect, ensuring your decisions align with your goals and values. Sometimes, unconventional paths can lead to remarkable outcomes if you stay adaptable and open to re-evaluation.
I’ve always appreciated a good quote, and I wanted to share a few with you. Consider printing them out and revisiting them in 10 years—you might be surprised at how your perspective changes over time.
Practical Advice
1. Call your mother: Your parents love you and think about you more than you know. Call your mom and visit often—they’ll appreciate it and so will you
2. Don’t chase money: The desire for wealth is a desire that can never be satisfied—you’ll never have enough. Pursue meaning and contribution with your life instead—it’s way more fulfilling in the long run
3. Encourage others often: The most effective way to succeed in life is to help someone else succeed in theirs
4. Find a mentor: Find someone that you admire and can look up to as an example. A good coach is worth their weight in gold
5. Find happiness today: Happiness isn’t an emotion that accompanies perfect circumstances. Happiness is a decision you make every day
6. Grow in faith: Believe in something bigger than yourself
7. Live life intentionally: Be very intentional in what you allow in your life. Don’t allow society or your friends to tell you what is important, choose for yourself
8. Look up more: That person in front of you is more important than your phone. Look up, and at them
9. Love your job: Even if it’s not your greatest passion, your current job can be enjoyed, appreciated, and loved
For our graduating college students, here is some practical advice.
Practical Advice
10. Start Saving for Retirement Now:
Begin investing early, even if it's a small amount. Compound interest will help your savings grow over time
11. Live Your Own Life:
Don't feel pressured to follow a predetermined path. Create a life that reflects your values and aspirations
12. Be Open to Change:
Embrace new opportunities and be flexible. Sometimes the best paths are the ones you didn't plan for
13. Network and Build Relationships:
Connect with people in your field and beyond. Networking can open doors and provide valuable support
14. Learn Continuously:
Never stop learning. Take courses, read books, and stay curious. Continuous learning will keep you adaptable and innovative
15. Manage Your Finances Wisely:
Budget your expenses, avoid unnecessary debt, and save regularly. Financial stability is crucial for long-term success
16. Take Care of Your Health:
Prioritize physical and mental health. Exercise regularly, eat well, and seek help when needed
17. Find a Mentor:
Seek guidance from experienced professionals. A mentor can provide valuable insights and support your career growth
18. Be Honest and Own Your Mistakes:
Transparency and accountability are key. Learn from your mistakes and use them as stepping stones to success
19. Stay Positive and Proactive:
Approach challenges with a positive mindset and take initiative. Being proactive can lead to new opportunities and achievements
20. Reputation
It takes a lifetime to build a reputation and minutes to lose it Be more concerned with your character than with your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are