Words Of Wisdom

For anyone freaking out about when they finish university, here are some words of wisdom I have come across from two very clever people. The first is from this blog about graduating in a recession.

"By succeeding in a tough economy, you will be much better prepared for life than peers who graduate with offer letters waived under their noses the moment they cross the stage to collect their diploma. Constraints breed creativity. Creativity is the single most useful skill you will ever develop."

"Bad news: you may not work in a field that has anything to do with your major. Good news: just as there is no perfect major, there is no perfect job. A much better way to view your career is by observing the kind of work that interests you. Many find that their early career choices set in motion a highly pragmatic but intensely unsatisfying work life. Instead, follow the kinds of things you are really passionate about."

"I have no problem being strong, or working hard, but I never considered that being kind and generous was synonymous with a limp career. Here is the good news: being kind, generous and authentic is now seen as a brilliant career strategy."

"Your life is not a race. You have plenty of time to experiment and figure out what interests you. You should travel. Volunteer. Try really out really different kinds of jobs and see what lights your fire. There is not a universal timeline for figuring things out, although many will tell you there is. The real questions to ask yourself as you cruise through life are: Are you happy? Are you learning? Are you contributing something positive to the world? Are you interested in others? Are you enthusiastic?"

"Rugged individualism is highly overrated. By trying to do everything yourself, you will take longer, produce worse results, feel isolated and have fewer exciting experiences. Instead, build on your current network. Stay in touch with classmates, professors and old bosses. Fill your life with all kinds of smart, interesting and compassionate people."

You also might want to take a look at Seth Godin's post which is along similar lines, but with a more "do something freaking productive, you lazy wanker" tone, and he's quite right, of course.