POST-GRADUATION BLUES: A TEST OF ENDURANCE

The transition from university to professional life is often accompanied with glaring self-doubt and concerns about the future. A feeling exclusive to graduates and a cycle that starts every July, post-graduation anxiety is a real struggle!

Although it’s been many months since I walked across the podium, I can still remember the uncertainty that took over as I embarked on my journey into unfamiliar territory.

But, fast forward a year, I am now part of an incredible team, fulfilling the position of Junior Account Executive. While I’ve only been here at Open Comms for a short time, I have already learnt a tremendous amount, developing both professionally and personally.

So, from someone who’s been there and done that I can happily confirm that there is light at the end of the tunnel! The path may seem bleak at times and maintaining motivation can be challenging but you have to trust the process. Yes, this is easier said than done, but there are ways to stay positive during a tricky time in life.

Reflect on your successes

I often found myself fixated on all the things I had yet to achieve, especially because life seemed to be at a halt. If you find yourself in this very predicament it’s time to take a step back and reflect on your achievements.

Graduating from university is not an easy task, it requires determination, perseverance and a lot of hard work, so if you got through it, remember to acknowledge that!

Switch off sometimes

Regardless of how you do it, it’s important to take a break from thinking. For me it’s when I’m at the gym or engrossed in a Netflix special. The mind is our most powerful tool; it can elevate us into positivity but also drown us with worry. Taking a break simply allows us to end any pesky negative thought loops and focus our energy into something else, even if it is for a short while.

Don’t compare yourself to others

A common mistake and an easy trap to fall into is comparing ourselves to our peers. Allowing others to set a benchmark for success only derails us from achieving the very best of our OWN dynamic abilities.

Talk it out

Perhaps not an easy option for some, but personally I have always found significant relief after talking about my worries with friends and family. Like the saying goes, a problem shared is a problem halved. Simple conversations with loved ones can offer different perspectives and help us view things more clearly.

My experience with post-graduation anxiety lasted almost a year, but I’m thrilled to say those days are behind me. I hope for anyone who might be in the position I was, there is comfort in knowing that the negative feelings do not last forever.

In a world of possibility, graduation is just the start of an exciting journey filled with opportunity! Enjoy it.