College is a really strange time in our lives. We are faced with a million different decisions each and every day. We spend a lot of our time stressed out about our future and are constantly questioning our life choices. At the same time, college brings about many exciting changes, opportunities, and fun life experiences. We make mistakes. A lot of them. We establish many new friendships and relationships, and are exposed to different new situations that we may have never been in before. College is a stage in our lives that we really do need to take advantage of. This four year chaotic journey is essentially the time for self-growth, as we begin to realize who we really are and who we aspire to be. When it comes to self-growth, there are a few components I believe every college student should truly keep in mind when going through whatever obstacles college throws at you.
1. Do what makes YOU happy.
One really great thing that I've learned while at school is that college is so...freeing. You can choose to go out on a Wednesday, you can choose to stay in and Netflix, you can choose to eat lunch whenever you please. There is absolutely no reason to ever make decisions that compromise your own happiness. A lot of people probably forget this sometimes. It can become difficult not to get caught up in trying to please everyone, trying to make everyone happy. However, at some point your own happiness needs to become a priority. And you should never feel guilty about this.
2. Leave your comfort zone.
Feeling safe and secure is a desirable feeling that is simply human nature. It's understandable to cling to the comforting feeling of what is familiar. However, self-growth is all about striving for more. There are so many opportunities in college to leave your comfort zone. Take a chance and immerse yourself in a new experience. You may meet someone who could change your life for the better. You may land yourself an opportunity you never would've expected.
3. Spend time with those who lift you up.
This is so important when it comes to both friendships and college relationships. So many times I have watched others be so incredibly held back because of who they chose to surround themselves with. Be with people who support your goals, who want to see you happy, and want you to make the most of your time in college.
4. Learn from your mistakes.
It's okay to make mistakes. It's NORMAL. If humans didn't make mistakes we would never learn anything about ourselves, or even others. Our mistakes do not define who we are. Do not beat yourself up and agonize over poor decisions! Recognize and own up to them, always. Self-growth is an all around learning experience and college is the time to make these mistakes.
