If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve graduated – or you’re close to.
It’s a major accomplishment. All those years spent hunched over a desk studying. Now, you can stand tall, walk proud and reach for your dreams. This is the next milestone in your life. Who knows what the future holds?
But before you hurl yourself into a world of possibilities, we’d like to set you off on the right foot. Because from this point forward, you’ll define who you are as a person and what type of life you will lead.
So, here’s some advice for the road ahead: 20 life skills (from those of us with a few more years under our belt). Print them out. Memorise them. Keep them close to your heart. They’re your salvation to a bright and successful future:
1/ Whatever you do for your first job, do it with pride. It might not be your dream role, but you’re working for a business that somebody feels passionate about. Someday, you may be the employer and you’ll expect your employees to do the same for you.
2/ On that note, if you ever have a job serving coffee – be polite and smile. For many people, coffee is the one small pleasure in their day.
3/ Look after your skin. You’ll thank the high heavens you did when you’re older.
4/ Embrace your failures. They will make you stronger and wiser.
5/ Say ‘yes’ as much as possible. Otherwise, you might just miss out on your biggest opportunity.
6/ Cans and Subway wrappers go in the bin – look after your planet. One day, your generation will be in charge of it and you don’t want to make the job any more difficult than it needs to be.
7/ Have patience. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Each small step you take, you’re a little closer to fulfilling your dreams.
8/ Colour outside of the lines. Those that dare to be different achieve great things.
9/ Put the darn phone down – especially when in company. Life is slipping past you.
10/ Dance like nobody’s watching – and they probably all will.
11/ Be kind. Always. Including to yourself.
12/ You were fooled by your parents – you’re not entitled to anything. In the real world you have to work for it.
13/ Oh and btw, stop using acronyms. You are now a mature member of society (lol).
14/ When you think you’ve hit rock bottom, watch an episode of Dr Phil. You’ll quickly realise you have a long way to go.
15/ Never tell your parents how uncool they are. One day your children will feel exactly the same way about you.
16/ And have patience with elderly drivers. We all know they shouldn’t be driving, but no-one has the guts to tell them.
17/ Don’t point out the problem unless you’re willing to be part of the solution.
18/ Travel. Everywhere. Except, perhaps, to Brussels.
19/ Laugh, often. Even if you don’t feel like it. Laughing is infectious, so you’ll be creating a happier world.
20/ Listen, learn, inspire. The world is yours now, so put yourself out there.
If you can master these skills early, your journey through life will be smoother, richer and more rewarding. We wish you the best of luck, graduate. Don’t be afraid to reach for the stars – may your adventure begin!