It’s been a long time since I graduated high school. However, I do think that the process of visualizing your future happens at many points in your life. There is so much pressure to know exactly what to do at eighteen. Millennials have regretted getting into massive debt for a degree they don’t even use. I wanted to break down a thought process that anyone can chew on to take next steps in life or career….

After high school or college…..

Just graduating high school, the world is your oyster. There is a ton of pressure to go to college for the sake of it. This mindset is not up with the current times. There are other options such as a trade school, or even taking a gap year to sort things out. As far as graduating with an undergrad, it is also important to take a beat and decide what makes long term financial sense.

Gap year option….

This is a good time to stack your money with investing. You can get a job, live at home, and invest. Is it an exciting option? No. The sooner you start investing the more wealth you will accrue. Some people use a gap year to travel. You could do that in the micro-sense or travel across the globe.

Don’t try to force your degree….

When we have that official paper it is easy to pigeonhole ourselves to only do that degree. Your bachelors could lead to a piece of a skill to a job or career. Try not to turn down offers just because that wasn’t what you majored in.

What lifestyle suits you the best….

Some people thrive with waking up at 6am and going into work at 9am, while others are not early risers and want more freedom and flexibility. Be honest about when you are most energetic during your day. Are you a night owl or a morning lark?

The job isn’t going to be what you think….

When you are getting your degree you are learning in theory how everything will work. This is why an internship is super important. On paper, it might seem like a glamorous job, but the reality could be a lot of late nights and out-of-control clients.

What is a hobby and what is a job?….

The people who can’t decide on a career have a hard time with this. You could have a million interests and you can’t pick one. In this case, it might come down to trial and error and what sticks. See how much positive feedback you are getting and if doors are shutting or opening. You should not have to force anything too hard. When it’s right it is something you are passionate about, but is also lucrative.

Give yourself time….

Jobs and careers take time to develop. You don’t want to abandon something after a week; it will take work and discipline. Cut it off or pivot after 2-3 years.

Network….

The wrong way to network is a cold email asking if you “can pick their brain.” Networking can mean going to a networking event or being social and ready with an elevator pitch. When you are relaxed and in your element you attract people towards you. You never know who you are chatting with or how big their circle is. Another thing to think about is what your resources are and who you already know. Most people get hired by former classmates, friends, or relatives. See where there might be legs up in your social circle.

Bottom Line….

At many points you will need to take it back to square one and follow your passions. Take advantage of your young age to invest your money. Start out with good financial literacy that can set you up to buy a home later on. Take advantage of a gap year. It is not common for Americans to do a gap year, but it can really save you from panic-picking a major. Give yourself time to digest and see how the real working world is like. Most importantly, it is ok to not use your college degree the way you thought.