Back-to-school tips

1. Don’t waste your time on unnecessary stress

I remember how stressful it was to think about the first day back. Some even hindered me from exploring opportunities because of all the unnecessary stress. Remember you’ll regret the “What if’s” more than the failures. Follow your heart and go after what brings you peace and happiness. 

These were the questions I used to stress over and the advice I wish I could give my past self:

• Is it ok that I’ve changed over the summer? Yes, whether it’s good or bad, change is growth. Embrace it. Own it.
• Am I still going to be relevant this year? YOU ARE AMAZING, UNIQUE AND BEAUTIFUL. Believe in yourself, and your power as a smart, kind, hard-working person. You always will be worth everything good in life.
• Am I going to be ok socially and academically? Take it one step at a time. Make smart decisions and live intentionally. As long as you put your mind to it, you will achieve whatever you wish to accomplish in life.
• Did I really need to buy that expensive textbook? Yes, but it’s ok. It will pay off eventually. Just keep working hard. Keep your eye on the price but have fun. Enjoy the ride.
• Will I still have the same friends from last year? Old friends, new friends–it doesn’t matter. You’ll learn over the years that friendships are based on quality over quantity.
• Will I make friends? Don’t ask, do. Socialize, start conversations. Stop talking yourself out of anything. Introduce yourself! Find the right connection with someone who shares the same values and humor as you. You’ll create lasting friendships that way.
• What if I’m not cool enough? Don’t worry about what others say or think. What do YOU think? Start appreciating yourself little by little. You’ll be surprised to see how beautiful you really are because you’re YOU. Unique in your own way.  
• Will people like me? The truth is, you can’t please everyone and that’s ok. Instead of forcing relationships, try finding others who will appreciate you for who you really are. It’s WAY better to be genuinely appreciated for being you.
• Will I land a real job after college? I can’t answer that but I know this for sure: if you create opportunities for yourself, you’ll get there sooner than if you wait for something to come to you. KNOW WHAT YOU WANT. Be open to criticism, work hard, meet new people, be grateful, find mentors, build relationships… do more than you think you need to. Don’t sell yourself short. You got this!
• How much drama can I avoid this year? You know that saying “If it costs you your peace, it’s too expensive”? Avoid drama forever by surrounding yourself with goal-driven yet supportive and loving friends. They do exist. Just have to find the right ones.

2. Be you

It’s very important to remember that the right friends (and people in general) will naturally gravitate towards you. You don’t have to change anything about yourself just to belong. Focus on your dreams, aspirations and goals: the rest will fall naturally. Trust me on this.

3. Enjoy the journey

I was that person who spent so much time and energy towards pleasing others and being the best student I could be. In the end, what truly mattered was the experience/journey and my education.

4. True friendships are gold

As I mentioned above, it’s quality over quantity. Find those who will encourage you to grow and be the best version of yourself. They truly enjoy your company. Evaluate how you feel after hanging out with a friend. Did it make you feel happy and appreciated or did it make you question your value? Toxic friendships are hard to identify on the surface but deep inside, you’ll know. Remember, who you surround yourself with matters to your future.

5. Education is important

In the end, education comes first. The right people and opportunities will present itself at the right time. Best thing about education/knowledge/skill is: no one can take it away from you. No matter what your situation is, as long as you have the know-how, willingness to grow and with google by your side (or in your pocket), you will be just fine. Just remember to do good, be the good and good will come to you.

Hope this post empowered you to face the new school year with a new perspective. You are going to be amazing! Confidence is key in life. Own it, you got this!