We have all felt overwhelmed at some point in our lives. We have all taken an extra class, joined an extra club, taken on extra responsibility. Furthermore, we have all have taken extra responsibilities that have caused us to feel overwhelmed.
Life can often be, and feel, overwhelming. Then come the questions that seem to be strategically composed to target the insecurities of the majority of students.
What’s your major? What are you going to do with that? Where are you going to work? Why don’t you have internship experience? Why did you switch majors? Why don’t you have your life together?
Do you sometimes feel like there are more questions than solutions that you can provide?
However, you need to feel comfortable with not knowing everything. I’m not saying you shouldn’t have a plan or goals. What I’m saying is that you should have a plan B, C, D, E etc. But realize that there is only so much you can control. No matter how perfect you plan something out, life will do its thing and change it. If you’ve read this far, you’re probably asking yourself “Where is the solution to not drowning?"
There isn’t one. There are too many variables and environmental differences and other factors to take into consideration. There just isn’t a universal solution that will work for everyone.
However, I can tell you that there are things that you can focus on that can help you feel more in control of your life.
- Feel comfortable with not knowing everything, believe in the process. Trying to find justification to everything that happens in your life will drain your energy.
- Understand that you can’t control what life is going to throw at you. However, you can control how you react to life's spontaneity. Don’t underestimate a smile and a positive mind.
- It’s all about finding balance; everyone has a different threshold for dealing with everything. Invest time in understanding how much you can manage at one time and still be efficient.
If you feel like you’re drowning, congratulations you’ve discovered a milestone in understanding how much you can balance. Learn from this, adapt to this, and find ways to become the most efficient human being you can become.
I know what it is like to feel like you’re drowning; because of this I've discovered my balance; how much weight I can carry on my shoulder and still clime. However, if you feel like the weight you are carrying isn’t allowing you to move forward, stop, and find your balance.
I am a senior, taking five classes, an internship, and working almost 30 hours a week at a pizza shop. And I love it. I found my balance.
