We do not need magic to change the world. We carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: We have the power to imagine better.
J. K. Rowling
It’s graduation time!
Maybe you’re headed off to college.
Maybe you’re working or traveling or diving into service of some kind.
But, whatever’s next for you, one thing’s for sure:
Your wellness should be your top priority.
Today we’re sharing 10 emotional wellness tips for graduating seniors:
1. Stay connected to home.
Maybe you can’t wait to leave home. Maybe the prospect terrifies you. Either way, it’s a good idea to find ways of keeping yourself connected after graduating. A favorite stuffed animal, some photos, or a friendly, familiar voice to call can go a long way towards helping you feel grounded as you make a new start.
2. Be open to meeting new people.
Soon you’ll find yourself surrounded by new faces. Your new roommate(s), your new classmates, your new coworkers, your new neighbors. Challenge yourself to be the first one to say hello, to start a conversation. “Putting yourself out there” is a skill you can develop over time. Start now!
3. Go easy on yourself.
All this time, you thought graduating was the hard part… but now there’s so much to think through and handle! Be patient with yourself: This is uncharted territory, and you’re doing the best you can.
4. Let yourself dream.
From their school guidance counselors, to commencement speakers, to relatives with hard opinions, graduating seniors are given a whole lot of unsolicited advice. Allow yourself to dream about your future for awhile. And if someone asks you what your exact, 10-year plan is, don’t worry if you’re not sure just yet. (Spoiler alert: None of us are!)
5. Care for your body.
We know you’ve heard it all before, but sometimes it helps to hear it from someone other than your dad or your health teacher: Drink plenty of water. Find exercise you enjoy and make time for it each day. Get enough sleep. Educate yourself on sexual health. Nourish your body with colorful, nutritious, satisfying food. This is age-old advice for a reason, we promise you.
6. Learn to quiet the mind, naturally.
From round-the-clock fast food access to drugs and alcohol to credit card reps offering you a special low-interest rate, you won’t have to look far for potential ways to distract yourself. Our advice? Learn to quiet your mind naturally, and you’ll have access to all the calming benefits without the consequences.
7. Savor the experience.
This summer after graduating will be over in the blink of an eye. Try to pause every now and then to breathe in, look around, and take a mental snapshot of what you’re experiencing.
8. Give thanks.
There will be moments after graduating when you can’t believe how much fun you’re having. And there will be moments when life feels anything but “fun”. Learn to feel gratitude in both extremes (and every situation in between), and you’ll have unlocked a key to lasting wellness.
9. Be a helper, and accept help yourself.
There’s this idea floating around that the world is divided into those who help others and those who need help. But, that’s a lie. We’re both, every one of us. So, look out for the people around you. And when you’re in need of help, ask for it.
10. Embrace change.
There’s no doubt about it: Change is hard. You might feel yourself being pulled in new directions, and you might notice changes in your relationships with the people around you and at home. Try to remember: Change is growth. Give yourself time and freedom to evolve. And if you could use some support along the way, we’re here for you.
Enjoy this post? You might also like:
Heading to College? Keep These 3 Things in Mind
Self-Compassion: 4 Ways to Start Practicing It Today
Your Emotional Wellness: 50+ Ways to Support It
Graduating? Could you use a little extra support?