“The fireworks begin today. Each diploma is a lighted match. Each one of you is a fuse.” – Edward Koch

Graduating from high school or college is an exciting adventure. It’s the big reward to sticking it out when there were days when you thought you couldn’t possibly understand what was being thrown at you.

Graduation is taking the next big step in life and it’s similar to one giant door opening and of course, one closing. Your daily routine and life as you know it is going to change.

That can be scary for some. You may feel apprehensive or assume that now that you have accomplished this major feat that life will be a breeze. There will be challenges.

For the days when the challenges seem overwhelming, here’s some sage advice for the new graduate.

Work to live; don’t work to live. Take a job you enjoy. When you enjoy your work, you will feel more fulfilled. Don’t work 7 days a week chasing the almighty dollar.

Be a lifetime learner. Just because you are done with school, it doesn’t mean you quit learning. There are always opportunities to learn.

Never give up. There will be some tough times and you may long for the days when your life revolved around school and not a job or bills. Keep your chin up and keep pressing forward.

Be true to who you are. Don’t change who you are to please anybody else, including a boss, employer, friends or spouse. You are you and you must do what you feel is right.

Save more, spend less and always live within your means. Avoid the credit card trap that will be so appealing once you get a fulltime job. Save money and live frugally. Don’t get caught up in buying fancy things on credit that you cannot truly afford.

Keep your friendships strong and alive. Your friends will offer you support and be there to celebrate your successes. They can help you through the tough times.

Make a difference. Don’t be satisfied to go with the flow. Make a real effort to make a difference in the world or in your small corner of the world. Be kind and consider others.

Be bold and dare to dream. Don’t be afraid to take chances. Work at fulfilling at least one of your lifetime dreams. Set goals and work hard to achieve those goals.

Always be kind. Never let your stresses and the weight of the world turn you into someone you cannot be.

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About Alex Blackwell
Alex Blackwell is a father, husband and writer