Mar 27, 2018
In The Job Market As A Millenial
At another fork in the road. What now?
As I approach the end of a fellowship I’ve been involved in for almost 2 years after graduation from university, I’m faced with a very familiar sort of cocktail blend of exhilaration, anxiety, fear and anticipation. I say familiar, because at every defining stage — leaving high-school and leaving university — I’ve felt the same way and I’m sure everyone has experienced it in some shape or form.
It’s the feeling of coming face-to-face with uncertainty. Of course, every day is uncertain, but when we have some sort of routine, it gives us a false sense of comfort even when things get tough. However, when we’re between jobs or concrete plans, it brings reality to the forefront which is frightening. On the other hand, when you look at it in a positive sense, it gives you an opportunity to press the reset button and evaluate your life and your goals, and step forward in a new direction, good or bad, but definitely forward.
I though I had finally figured out what I’m passionate about and where I want to be, but as I go about job searching, I realize that I may not land what I really want right away. I have to expand my options, much in the same way that I did at my previous stages of “What do I do with myself now?”. Except, I have to recognize and appreciate the fact that even as I expand my options, I’m coming from a place of more experience and have definitely gained more knowledge and skills. It adds more confidence and the ability to back up all the expanding possibilities with some hard-earned proof.
When I think of the amazing people I have around me, also trying to adult and figure out their position in life and how they can best fulfill their higher purpose, I realize that I have learnt so much about life: It’s about figuring out your goals, values and priorities. It’s about putting your health and mental well-being first. It’s about valuing your happiness and recognizing your worth — and standing up for yourself when it’s needed. And more than anything, about being positive through tough experiences. Resilience and persistence will get you further than you ever imagined.
All in all, I’m still concerned about where life will go from here for me, but I’m also extremely open to signs from the universe because I believe something amazing is lined up next that will take me further towards my greater goals. I’m up for the challenges and obstacles that may come in my way on the way there because I realize that the toughest experiences I have had to date have made me who I am and I’m grateful for them.
