The first few years leading into high school graduation and after can be some of the most terrifying for young adults ready to make their mark on the world. These years are like the rite-of-passage for what they will do to become independent, society-contributing adults. Some of these "tributes" have the help of their family and friends; others don't want help in their fight to survive "The Hunger Games." This is almost a literal definition of life after high school, at least for a few years. Ramen noodles and mac and cheese will only go so far!
Many will say that they won't have to work hard to provide for themselves; they will find a high-paying job and be "making bank" by the time they are 25, with or without a college education. But the reality is that few will actually accomplish this. With so much of the unknown in play, what is the most discouraging thing as a young high school graduate? Let me tell you. It's the disapproving look from those who ask what you have decided to do with your life.
By now, you may be wondering if this article will be as uplifting as the title makes it seem. Trust me, we are getting there! Here's the reality of every aspiring young adult's situation: You need to do what makes you happy — "Do what you love and you will never work a day in your life." If you are truly passionate about what you are doing, then you will find a way to be successful and provide for yourself and those you care about. But there is no easy solution to being successful at life, at least successful by society's standards. College will not make it or break it for you, and neither will not going to college. Here's what will: not staying true to yourself.
"Success is the maximum utilization of the ability that you have." –Zig Ziglar
You have the ability to carve your pathway through life. You must measure your success by what makes you the happiest, not by how much money you make. I know that it is hard to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life, but I have great news — you don't have to know right now! Even if you didn't know five years after you graduate high school, that's OK! You are right in line with some 30-year-olds who are still trying to decide what will make them happy!
Some of the most successful people didn't get it right the first time. It was their drive to keep trying, to keep searching that led them to their own standard of success. One's success will not be achieved without work; you will have to work to determine what will make you happy and then achieve that goal, but it will be worth it. You are the only one on this planet who can do something no one else can: being you! You are the only one who is the best at making you happy! You may not know what that happiness is yet, but you will figure it out someday. Just keep living life and strive to find that one thing every day.
It may seem scary trying to decide which college you want to go to or what you want to major in, if you even decide to pursue higher education. But remember, your success is dependent on your happiness and no one else's. Do what you love. This is your life, so live it!
