I’m struggling with two things: (1) how can it already be March; and (2) will we have a big snowstorm on St. Patty’s Day? I know that is nonsense, but sometimes getting away from serious issues clears the brain and helps to focus on important things again.
Life is full of important decisions. Especially for high school seniors. I am sure you are thinking about graduation, walking across the stage, and accepting your diploma. Then what?
Thinking about the “then what?” is important and sometimes one of those things that you put off “until later.” Unfortunately, like March coming too soon, “until later” becomes now. This is the time, if you are going to college, to evaluate your financial aid offers and make choices. If you are entering the work market, where will you get a job that can, perhaps, help to define your career and assist in paying for your education? If you are going into the trades or a vocational career, how will that happen, what are the associated costs, and where will you go?
During the past few months, you have explored many of these options and created your pathway. If not, you’re going to have to make some choices…and create your pathway. I know it is hard to make “life” decisions, but it is important to make some choices.
I am a great believer in fun. Fun is…well…fun. We all need social experiences, laughing, being with friends, or just hanging out. We all need time away from the seriousness of life. So, balance your fun with your serious. Take time to make those serious decisions and reward yourself by doing something fun.
In addition to having a pathway, having balance in life is often hard to learn. Sometimes, I think balance in life is one of the hardest things to learn. What is the right balance of obligations v fun. I’m still working on that, but have discovered that there are times that I am being way too serious and not having enough fun. That’s when I step back and evaluate what I am doing, its importance, and then figure out how to change that off-balance.
I think being in high school should be fun. Especially as a senior. You have so many enjoyable things to look forward to…spring break, prom, graduation, summer fun. Create fond memories, but don’t forget to move along your path. Balance.
Patricia G. Egan, MBA, CFRE
Executive Director, LEAF
|