5 Tips for a Positive Post-Graduation Mindset
Congratulations! You just graduated, and that’s a huge accomplishment. If you have a job lined up after graduation, that’s spectacular. You’re probably feeling a mix of emotions and trying to process it all. If you don’t, then that’s still spectacular. You’re also likely feeling a mix of emotions and trying to process it all.
Society preaches that graduating seniors should have it all figured out by the time they walk across the stage, but it doesn’t happen that way for everyone. This can create a confusing, stressful, and exhausting mindset for a graduate just trying to figure out their life. Here’s what we recommend for the next few months if you just received your diploma, but you’re still finding your footing.
1. Maintain a positive mindset
A job search can be a true test of confidence. If you’ve been job hunting your entire senior year without much luck, then you may be losing some momentum. However, it’s more important than ever to maintain a positive mindset. While it may be taking longer than expected, you find a position well-suited for you. Check out our post Want to Find a Job? 3 Tips for Your Toolkit – to get more help on finding a job.
2. Pace yourself
Your life is not your job. We repeat — your life is not your job! Don’t become so consumed by the job search that you forget other activities, hobbies, or rewarding elements of your life. Some people find jobs immediately and others spend months searching for optimal opportunities. If you lose yourself completely in this process, you’re more likely to feel like it’s never going to get better. Take a step back, breathe, and remember that finding a job will happen with consistent effort.
3. Lean on your support system
Some people isolate themselves when they feel their lives aren’t going well. They may feel ashamed or embarrassed if life isn’t turning out exactly as they planned. However, there are plenty of people in your life who can support you through this, even providing ideas or tips if desired. Friends and family members are an ideal place to start, but you can consider reaching out to therapists or career coaches as well if you need additional support.
4. Find your own definition of success
At the same time, there are often a lot of voices surrounding graduating students. Block out the noise that isn’t helpful to you. You don’t have to follow the advice of your professors, parents, or peers if it isn’t what success looks like to YOU. Ask yourself, “What will make me happy? What will make me feel fulfilled? What will help me find success?”
5. Create a timeline
When you graduate, everyone will tell you that you “have your whole life ahead of you.” This is meant to feel inspiring, but it can easily feel daunting. What happens if you don’t have a plan for tomorrow or next week?
Start by creating a timeline for the next month or until the end of the summer. This will help you understand your success in a defined period, and it can help you gain confidence.
Final Thoughts
Are you feeling nervous about your job search? Read our blog Want to Find a Job? 3 Tips for Your Toolkit or sign up for Career Coaching with the Quarterlife Center. We’re here to help you make this transition to adulthood as seamless as possible.
If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or you’d like more information, please call us at 1-844-QLC-TALK (1-844-752-8255) or email us here.
