By Avreet Jagdev

Whether it’s from high school or post-secondary, graduating school is a huge milestone to be proud of. A lot of work leads up to the big day, but the aftermath can feel daunting and confusing. Especially for those who have recently graduated and are unsure of what to do next, graduating can be an isolating and stressful time.

However, it doesn’t have to be! And although feelings of being lost or confused are completely normal and valid, it is important to not let them hold you back. Here are some pieces of advice to help you navigate these feelings and decide where to go next.

1. Remind yourself that this is normal

Although it might seem like other graduates have their lives together, chances are that most of them are in the same boat as you. Remind yourself of how far you’ve come in your educational journey, and that it’s okay to feel lost or confused about how to move forward.

2. Take some time off

This can look different for different people, since not everyone has the ability to completely take a break from work or other commitments. However, before rushing to find a job or apply to more schools, consider taking some time off to rejuvenate. Remember that rest is productive, and it is important to take care of yourself and your health.

3. Rekindle old hobbies, or find a new one you’ll love

Although the open-endedness that comes with graduating can seem daunting, it’s also a great opportunity to try new hobbies, or pick old ones back up again. Whether you’ve been meaning to get a gym membership, learn how to crochet, or get back to your long-lost love for reading, now is a great time to do so!

4. Consider all of your options

Once you graduate, it can be easy to box yourself up into very specific options, such as finding full-time employment in the field you studied, or considering more schooling.  However, it is important to remember that there are many more options available to you. For example, you might look into volunteering, starting an initiative in your community you’ve always wanted to, taking some time off to travel, or visiting family that lives far away.

5. Utilize your resources

Being a fresh grad can definitely feel lonely and isolating, but chances are that you have some useful resources available to you, so take advantage of them! Look into the institution you graduated from, to see if they offer career development programming or job boards for recent grads. You can also look for resources at your local public library, and even on websites such as LinkedIn or Indeed!

6. Prioritize your mental and physical well-being

Unfortunately, stress, burnout, and anxiety are all too common among students, and something you might’ve experienced yourself. To ensure that these don’t continue into your post-grad life, make sure that you prioritize your mental and physical health. This means getting fresh air, taking breaks when needed, and eating healthy. Remember that you have your whole life ahead of you, and that you don’t need to feel pressured to figure out everything right away.