As I write my final PRowl blog post, I am equally shocked and elated. Once December 19th rolls around, I will no longer have to abide by the obligation of being a student for the first instance in my life. Is that nervewracking? Of course, but I can’t help but think about the journey that’s waiting for me on the other end — one with unending possibilities and greater freedom to create change. Does this make me qualified to give advice? Maybe, but I’ll try my best anyway.
Your plans are going to change. There are no two ways about it: change is petrifying. In high school, I had been made to believe that choosing to change the direction of my college plans was not an option. I now know that this couldn’t be further from reality. The growth I’ve experienced throughout my college career is immeasurable. That wouldn’t be the case if I didn’t listen to myself and take the necessary risks to discover my truth.
Pay attention to what you don’t like. We’re constantly instructed to identify what our passions are. Seldom are we told to keep a lookout for what we don’t enjoy? I would argue that this is all the more revealing of what you want. Take note of that gut reaction because chances are, it’s happening for a reason.
Stop making excuses. This has become a personal mantra. I hate to break it to you, but everyone’s busy. Making excuses for yourself and others only waste your breath. There are moments in which I’ve had to be exceptionally honest with myself. Though these moments were not fun per se, they also were some of the most enlightening.
Don’t settle for anything less than what you deserve. Set your standard early on and adapt it as you see fit. Even though your standard may shift as you become more resolute in who you are, refuse to waver from it. This applies to anything and everything from your academics and career to your friendships and relationships. You know your worth. Don’t let anyone else, including yourself, convince you otherwise.
Give yourself a break. We’ve been conditioned to think that taking time for yourself is taboo. Let’s turn that idea on its head. If you aren’t taking care of yourself, you can’t be expected to give your all for others. Even if it’s just a half-hour each day to do absolutely nothing, any form of a break is well-earned. You’ve worked hard. Own it.
I admit that I am not a sage, but I have learned a thing or two while at Temple. Part of this is because I have allowed myself to be open about how I want to live. I encourage you to do the same. I hope that that helps you get closer to finding your bliss.
-Christina Borst
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