We are in the midst of graduation season, as seniors complete their high school educations and prepare for the next stage of their lives, generally with more independence and responsibility for themselves. It is a time of lots of advice being given, so we think it’s only fair that we offer our own contributions.
First off, it is a busy time, a lot is happening, but try to slow down and take it in. Look around at how many people are happy for what you’ve accomplished. Remember that. There will likely be times in your life when you feel isolated and on your own. At those times, it can help to remember that there are so many people who want you to succeed. When someone tells you that they are proud of you, take them seriously.
When you need to reach out, you can. But many times, just remembering that people believe in you and care can make a difference.
We also advise you to have hobbies, and more importantly, spend time enjoying them. Find things you enjoy doing, that help you relax, and make time for them, even when life is busy. Ideally, you’ll have at least one hobby you can enjoy on your own and at least one that works well in groups—sometimes those can even be the same hobby.
Hobbies are much better than scrolling through social media or watching television for unwinding after a difficult day. They can raise your sense of well-being, improve your cognitive function, and are good ways to get to know other people.
A skill that can be a tremendous help for your mental health is diagnosing what is and isn’t worth stressing over. There will be so many things in your personal and professional lives that you can stress out about, but only a fraction of them will actually be worth worrying over.
This isn’t to say not to care about those other things, but don’t let them keep you awake at night.
A related skill that can be similarly helpful is not taking it personally every time someone is rude or inconsiderate. Occasionally, you will encounter someone who, for whatever reason, acts like a jerk. Unless that person stands between you and your goals, dwelling on it will only ruin your day.
This month’s new graduates also have to contend with whether, when, and how to use artificial intelligence tools. Our advice is to learn how to use AI tools, including understanding how they generate their results, but to be judicious about using them and always double-check the results. Don’t outsource your thinking.
This is especially true for new graduates who plan to continue their education in college. There will be times when you are tempted to have AI do an assignment for you. But that defeats the purpose. The professor didn’t give a writing assignment because she needs the themes of “White Noise” explained to her. She assigned it because the best way to learn to analyze things is to do it. Do the work, so you can learn the skills.
The possibilities facing you are endless. Take good care of yourself and put in the work so you can make the most of your opportunities.
– The Hutchinson Tribune Editorial Board