Dear Graduate:

You did it. Four years of hard work and study are over. Your family came and sat for hours in various climates anxiously waiting for their 30ish seconds to witness your walk across the platform, the handshake and receipt of your diploma. Their hearts swelled with pride and their eyes filled with tears as they regaled in your accomplishment.

There were parties and dinners, laughter and tears. Four years of possessions were gathered up for transit. Four years of friendships were memorialized with emotion. For some, the next step of your journey is mapped out, you will continue directly to graduate schools or jobs. For many, for the first time in your life, you will proceed to the unknown.
Your graduation comes at a time of historic economic challenges. Your job search will require courage, motivation and persistence in a time when you are vulnerable, overwhelmed and scared. Searching for shelter, uninvited inquires from loved family and friends invade your space with The Question, “So, what are you going to do?” How you wish you could give them an answer.

Whatever our age, whatever our stage, the unknown is a powerful enemy. We hate limbo. Yet, you will survive—you will thrive. In fact, learning to live and endure without answers is an integral life skill that will serve you well.

Enjoy this moment. Explore many options. This too will pass—it is time limited.

Next week’s blog will give you some specific steps to help in your search.

I would love to hear your comments. Please e-mail me: laura@realwomenwin.com