Embracing Life’s Fast Pace
By Isabella Tricarico
As I get older, one thing I noticed about my life is how fast time moves. It feels if as every year I get older time picks up its pace pushing me faster towards the real world. As a junior in college with 2 months left, I am feeling overwhelmed at how fast my college experience is going. The transition from college to the real world feels both exhilarating and overwhelming. With this transition comes a whirlwind of responsibilities and uncertainties, but also is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.
For many of us, it is a huge transition and a significant milestone to go from graduating college to starting a new job or venturing to find something you genuinely enjoy doing. The safety net of familiar routines and structure that was present in college is suddenly not there. The certainty is replaced with uncertainty and life is filled with new responsibilities and decisions.
The transition gives a whole new meaning of freedom. Freedom in college was the ability to be off on your own and live away from your parents while having fun in the college environment. Now, freedom is making choices to secure stability in life, financially and socially. There is the overwhelming pressure to succeed professionally which results in feelings of anxiety about the future.
Amongst all of this chaos, it is important to remember that we are not alone in this journey. We are all navigating our way around adulthood trying to get through the successes and failures that come with not knowing what our plan is supposed to be. Feeling overwhelmed or even afraid of what will come next is okay. It is somewhat beautiful and comforting to know that everyone in this world deals with their own trials and tribulations. Looking at parents and grandparents we have evidence that everything works out and what is occurring now is only temporary. In the moment certain decisions may feel wrong or you may feel this was not what you thought your life would be but, in the end, you are exactly where you are supposed to be.
In embracing life’s fast pace, it is essential to create a sense of self-compassion and resilience. Allow yourself the grace to fail along the way, knowing that failure is just a detour on your journey to success. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family that will guide and encourage you during all of life’s uncertainties. Most importantly, remember to prioritize yourself. Self-care is essential during the chaos, take time to care for your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Honoring your needs will help build strength and grace to get through the journey will an open mind. Take a deep breath, trust in the process, and know that you are more capable than you could ever imagine.
