Self-Reflection and Acknowledging Progress
Whether you have the summer off from school, just graduated, or have planned a vacation away from work, I recommend taking some time this month to stop and reflect.
Take a break
In my previous post, we talked about how transitioning from school to work can be difficult. I think it’s important to take the time between finishing school and starting a job to mentally regroup.
Even years after graduating, working full or part time can sometimes feel like a constant grind. It’s important to take advantage of paid time off, mentally check-out, and allow yourself to relax.
By doing these things, we give ourselves the opportunity to get re-energized both physically and mentally before getting back to our normal routine.
Stepping away from school or work also gives you time to reflect and acknowledge the progress you’ve made over time.
Progress takes different forms
When reflecting, think about the progress you have made over the past year. Keep in mind that progress looks different depending on where you are in your life now and where you were a year ago.
Graduation is an obvious milestone - pat yourself on the back and appreciate all the hard work that went into it.
If you just completed your first year of college, think about all the changes and adjustments you have made - surviving academically (hopefully thriving), new friends, new living situation.
Maybe you transferred schools - adjusting to a new location, new classes, making new friends.
Maybe you just completed your first full year of work and this is the first time that there won't be a summer break. That in itself is a big adjustment. Getting through the last year probably included a ton of changes.
Sometimes, progress is less tangible than a physical change. It can be the realization that your self-talk, your inner voice, is a bit more optimistic.
What does your progress look like?
The goal here is to take the time to see and appreciate how far you’ve come over the last year. Savor that feeling of accomplishment so next time you are faced with a challenge, you remember these accomplishments and know that you are more than capable of being successful.
Moving forward
Remember that you have the ability to handle challenges in life. Even if they look different as you get older (and they will), you know what you were capable of in the past. This way of building confidence can be a valuable tool which will allow you to overcome hurdles as life goes on.
Being an adult is hard. But you’re able to do it. Give yourself credit, whether you’re brand new at it or have been doing it for years.
And if you think you could use some support, reach out. Whether it is to point out the accomplishments or to plan your next steps, I’m here to help.