As a university student, I have learned many valuable lessons throughout my academic journey. Some of these lessons have been easy to learn, while others have been more challenging.
For anyone about to start your college journey, I want to share with you the most difficult lesson I have learned, and how it has impacted my life.
I was just as lost a student as any other young person:
Growing up, I relied heavily on the opinions of others to shape my identity. I wanted to be accepted and validated by those around me, but I struggled to find a sense of self-worth.
However, as I progressed through university, I came to the realization that I am a limited edition. I am unique and special in my own way, and that is something to be celebrated. This lesson has helped me to love and accept myself for who I am, and it has made a significant impact on my life.
If you ever have doubts about yourself, here is what I want to share:
1. You cannot depend on someone too much
It’s important to have a support system, but relying solely on others for your happiness and well-being can lead to disappointment and frustration. You must learn to be self-sufficient and take responsibility for your own life.
2. Patience is key.
You can’t understand everything immediately, sometimes you need to wait. This lesson has been particularly challenging for me because I am someone who likes to have everything figured out. However, I have come to realize that some things take time to understand, and that’s okay. It’s important to be patient with yourself and the learning process.
3. It’s okay to say no.
There will be times when you won’t be invited, included, or considered. This can be a tough pill to swallow, but sometimes, it’s necessary. It’s a way for you to look out for yourself and prioritize your own well-being. It’s important to remember that you don’t always have to be a part of everything, and it’s okay to say no.
4. Keep pushing forward.
When things are going against you, then remember the airplane takes off against the wind. This quote is a reminder that even when things are tough, there is always a way to overcome them. It’s important to keep pushing forward, even when the odds are against you.
5. Honesty is important, but so is tact.
The difference between being direct and blunt is the tone. You can be honest in a polite manner or in a rude way. This lesson has been particularly challenging for me because I am someone who values honesty. However, I have come to realize that there is a way to be honest without being hurtful. It’s important to consider the feelings of others and communicate in a way that is respectful.
6. Sometimes, silence is the best response.
The best way to respond to someone who does not value or understand your words is by being silent. This lesson has been difficult for me because I am someone who likes to have the last word. However, I have come to realize that sometimes, the best thing you can do is not say anything at all. It’s a way to show that you are the bigger person and that you don’t need validation from others.
7. Not all friendships are meant to last.
You can be friends with someone for years, only to realize that it was never friendship in the first place. This lesson has been particularly challenging for me because I am someone who values loyalty and trust. However, I have come to realize that people come and go in our lives for a reason, and sometimes, it’s necessary to let go of certain relationships. It’s important to focus on the relationships that bring positivity and growth into your life.
In the end, you don’t have to be perfect
Throughout my academic journey, I have learned many valuable lessons. The most difficult lesson I have learned is that you cannot depend on someone too much, as even our own shadow leaves us in the dark. Other valuable lessons I have learned include the importance of patience, saying no, and being honest in a polite manner. Remember, you are a limited edition, and it’s important to love and accept yourself for who you are. By learning these lessons, we can grow and become better versions of ourselves.
