This is graduation weekend for the university at which I teach. Many high schools and colleges have already had or will be having commencement ceremonies. Here is my bit of advice for the graduates:
Protest less. We have become a society that yells but doesn’t listen. Sit down with those you disagree with and discuss your differences.
Work more. You are just starting out in the “real world”. Expect to work hard to establish yourself. You are young and have fewer responsibilities. Dedicate yourself now to preparing your career so you don’t have to work the long hours when you do have the responsibilities of home and family.
Play outside. Be physically active in the outdoors—hike, bike, kayak, etc. This is a generation of virtual play. Give the PlayStation, Nintendo, Xbox, etc. a rest and get out of the house.
Use a pen. Take a break from the computer, smart phone, e-mail, and social media, regularly, and write a letter or a note. Journal in a paper notebook. Communicate the “old fashion” way—with pen and paper. There are some of us who still appreciate the feel of a letter and the effort and thought that goes into writing.
Use good grammar and words. In this age of Twitter and texting, we are getting lazy in our writing. Don’t be lazy.
Use your phone for that which it was originally intended! Let’s not forget that we have vocal cords. Call people more and text them less. Have conversations!
Read. “School’s out, forever” (Alice Cooper), but learning should not end. Read regularly—paper or electronic; books or articles; fiction or non-fiction; technical or pleasure. It doesn’t matter, per se, what you read. Just read! Learn.
Exercise. It is easier to maintain fitness than to gain or regain it. Don’t wait to establish regular exercise habits. Make the time now. Make it a part of your routine.
Play after every storm. Great advice from Mattie Stepanek. Trials and difficulties will come and go. That is life. Deal with it! Deal with it, but don’t dwell on it. Learn and grow from difficulties. Receive them with gratitude and move on.
Love your neighbor. You don’t have to like them, but you do need to love them. Do good. Do no harm. Treat others with the care and respect that you demand.
Take responsibility. Don’t blame others for your misfortune or lack of opportunity. You are in the circumstances you are in for reasons that are, perhaps, out of your control, but the decision to remain in your present circumstances are entirely up to you. True, the road might be harder for some. If it is hard, know for certain that you are capable. Accept the challenge. Be responsible for your own success or failure.
Fail. While you are young, take risks. Challenge yourself. Make mistakes and learn. If you aren’t “failing” from time to time, you aren’t learning.
Sleep less. Arnold Schwartenegger told an audience of graduates: “If you need more than six hours of sleep, sleep faster.” Establish regular sleeping patterns. Don’t spend more than 8 hours in bed (unless, of course, you are sick). You can’t accomplish anything sleeping. Be productive. Use your time wisely.
Live in New York City. “Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard” (Mary Schmich).
Live in Northern California. “Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft” (Mary Schmich).
Wear Sunscreen. O.K., now I am just starting to steal from Mary Schmich (Wear Sunscreen: A Primer for Real Life).
Find a career, not a job. College doesn’t teach students to make a career for one’s self. Academics teach to their perspective of the discipline—unfortunately. If you are going off to college, seek an expansive education. Challenge to curriculum. If you are a college graduate, be a jobs creator. Learn from employers early—back to work hard—and use this “job” as a springboard to something greater.
Be (extra)ordinary.
Carpe momento!