Throughout high school, I had a mental countdown until graduation. As the years, months, and weeks went by and graduation drew closer, I became stressed about what would happen next. Graduation felt like the ultimate turning point — the ending of life as I knew it. Since the future felt like a huge mystery, it felt like the only thing I could be sure about were the days leading up to it.
I slowly started questioning what life would be like once high school was over. I wondered what it would feel like to move so far away from home, become an adult, and make new friends in a new place. These questions were always swirling around the back of my mind, making every passing day seem more intense. I kept thinking that once I graduated, something big would happen — like a switch flipping. I thought my life would explode into something totally different, and I’d have no idea what to do.
But here’s the thing: when graduation finally came and went, nothing exploded. My life kept going. Days, weeks, and months passed, and everything was fine. I actually had some of the best times of my life that summer, hanging out with friends, enjoying the weather, and taking advantage of my freedom. The world didn’t collapse beneath my feet, even though I’d built graduation up in my head to be something huge.
The truth is, life after high school isn’t as intimidating as it may seem. After I graduated and started college in a different state, I realized something important: I was still me. Yes, I was in a different place, surrounded by new people, and adjusting to new routines, but I didn’t lose myself in the process. I’m still in touch with some of my friends and teachers from high school. The idea that everything would change instantly after graduation wasn’t entirely true; things change slowly, and that’s okay.
Here’s the thing: It’s normal to feel stressed leading up to graduation. The idea of moving on to the next stage of life – whether it’s college or a gap year- can feel overwhelming. However, there are ways to feel less stressed about it.
Here are a few tips that helped me deal with my stress surrounding graduation:
Talk It Out: If you’re feeling scared or overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to talk to someone about it. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or counselor, sharing your thoughts can be a huge relief. The perspective of other people who have felt the same way can be really helpful.
Break it Down: Instead of focusing on the big picture, try breaking things down into smaller, more manageable goals. For example, focus on fun things happening in the next week or even the next day instead of obsessing about the far future.
Remember to Take Breaks: Amid the chaos of senior year, it’s easy to get caught up in studying, activities, and preparing for the future. But don’t forget to take time for yourself. Whether it’s hanging out with friends, reading a book, or just taking a walk, relaxation is so important.
Stay Connected: No matter where you end up after graduation, stay in touch with the people who matter to you. Your high school friends, family, and even teachers can be great sources of support as you navigate this transition. Remember, the connections you have now don’t have to end just because graduation has passed.
In the end, the countdown to graduation might feel like a ticking time bomb, but once the day arrives, life goes on. You’re still you, and the future doesn’t have to be this scary unknown. With time, you’ll find your rhythm and realize that what happens next doesn’t have to be perfect — it just needs to be you.
