22 Thoughts

So I’ve graduated, what now?

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Brielle Gines

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I’ve been reflecting on this question a lot, especially in the period leading up to graduation, when it seems everyone wants to know what’s next. It wasn’t until an evening spent cooking that I realized the importance of embracing the slow pace of this in-between phase—between working, studying, and starting new projects.

While making a vinaigrette, I initially felt the urge to rush and move on, but then I paused and realized there was nothing urgent demanding my attention at that moment. No impending assignment deadlines or projects due at midnight. It was a moment of clarity when I realized I could slow down more than I ever did during my time in school.

My undergraduate journey has been amazing, marked by significant milestones. However, along with these achievements, I’ve also experienced anxiety, restlessness, and uncertainty about the future. Now, as I transition into this new phase of life, I’m learning to embrace each day as it comes, allowing it to unfold as a pleasant surprise rather than adhering to structured expectations.

One of the greatest joys has been removing Canvas from my phone and leaving class GroupMe chats behind. Shedding these layers of obligation has been liberating. I’m now focused on creating new habits and traditions centered around my true desires, with actionable steps to achieve them. For example, I’ve started waking up early to walk 2 miles for my health and dedicating time to work on projects at my own pace, ensuring they meet my high standards.

If you, like me, are wondering what’s next, I want to share the advice a friend gave me after graduation: “Enjoy the stillness.” It’s a simple concept but a transformative process. Embracing stillness and taking each day as it comes has brought me immense joy and fulfillment, and I’m loving every moment of this new chapter.

2 responses to “So I’ve graduated, what now?”

  1. Surayya Raheem Avatar
    Surayya Raheem

    I resonate with this heavily. I’m often in between this feeling of embracing stillness and pressuring myself to decide my next move. I believe it has a lot to do with societal expectations. I graduated almost a year ago now and I did not expect to be hit with the looming question of “who am i, if not a student?” This is where my focus has been these days. Figuring out who I am; and sometimes the only way to do this is in those minutes of stillness. Thank you for this read.

    Liked by 1 person

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    1. Brielle Gines Avatar
      Brielle Gines

      You’re so welcome, Surraya! I share in your sentiments as well being in the in-between of stillness and dealing with the pressures of a next move. I hear that you so loud! What I’ve been learning about expectations that when not healthy are usually always conforming you to take the path of someone else or do something within the crowd and this can become unrealistic as 1) It’s not us and 2) It’s selling us someone else’s dream or path. Your best bet always is to discover what it is you enjoy doing and tap into that more, allowing your mind to be stretched by your curiosity and not an expectation especially those that some from society because it changes everyday. As with being a student, the education system definitely hits in that of providing that structure and routine, and speaking for myself with just graduating, it’s been a learning curve so far with wanting to find a job or move somewhere else, but I take each day as it comes and allow myself to be in the day rather than trying to manufacture a day due to what I’ve done before in the past with being in school! I hope this helps and I’m glad my post resonated with you 🙂 I’m always down to chat so if you wanna send me a DM or comment more, I’ll be here!

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Hello,

I’m Brielle

Welcome to 22 Thoughts, a place where travel enthusiasts, self-love advocates, and those seeking to live their best lives can find inspiration and practical tips.

I am a passionate traveler who believes that exploring new places opens the door to personal growth and self-discovery. Through her own experiences, she has learned the importance of self-love and prioritizing mental and emotional well-being.

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