5 Reasons Why It's Okay To Not Know What To Do With Your Life
We’ve all had the awkward conversation at parties or family get togethers where someone will ask you “So what are you doing for work?” or “What kind of profession are you thinking of getting into?” and your brain is buzzing a thousand words a minute for a professional answer that isn’t “Um, I don’t know…” When really it’s a lot more complicated than that. The expectations of picking the right units for your HSC are heightened to a state of panic as you decide the path for the rest of your life.
Let’s start by answering this question; are your ATAR and HSC grades really that important?
Basically, no.
1: High School Grades
Your grades are important but do no set the ground work for your future career. Your ATAR is a Wonka ticket that gets you into uni fast. I've seen a lot of first years have a culture shock when they realise that the content isn't all going to be spoon fed to them. The tutors won't chase you up for a late essay, it’s up to you to be organised. A lot of first years drop out because they have no friends and that is so not the point of uni! You can always join muggle quidditch later.
2. What do YOU want?
Take time to find out what YOU want! Not what other people want from you or think what works for your friends will work for you. Once you turn 21, you’re considered a mature age student and you don't need an ATAR to get into uni. It's less if you use certain diplomas from TAFE to get in (that's how I got into uni). Is three years or less really that long to wait? You may find that the time after high school is really the time to plan what you want to do. As long as you’re engaging yourself.
3. The Epiphany
We've all heard other peers say their five year plan to become vets or astronauts. That's great for them. But what about the rest of us? When dose the epiphany hit?
Well I can tell you, it may never come. However, things eventually fall into place.
In the long run, those who think they know what they want are at a disadvantage because what if that field of industry changes? Their skills and life ambitions have been narrowed into one little frame and you my friend will have the advantage being flexible and a jack of all trades.
4. Rites of passage to adulthood
Things have changed in the last few years to what our parents’ expectations were. Family structures are different. Rates of pay are different. None of us can afford to leave the nest before thirty. Less young people have a drivers licence and little need for a car. Although there is nothing wrong with getting married young, in my opinion, a marriage certificate doesn’t make a relationship anymore significate than one that is not recognised by the courts. Marriage is betting someone half your stuff you’ll love them forever. Forever is a very long time, why rush? Build your career first.
5. Educate yourself.
Education is the most important thing. It gives us freedom, power and consensus. Be open to as many educational opportunities as you can get your hands on. That includes jobs too. There's no reason you can't blaze your own path. My best friend says adulthood is another way of saying we make it up as we go along. It may be rough and you might fail time and again, but be resilient and I have no doubt you'll make your dreams come true. Don't forget these dreams are okay to change. Your happiness is the most important thing!
