Finding Your Way Through Year 12 and Beyond

Year 12 can be a rough journey especially when you’re not sure what you’re future looks like. This is my advice to other young people that might find themselves a bit lost, like I was. I didn’t know where I was going or what I was doing. It looked a bit like this.

To get a bit clearer about your future is not easy.
I’m usually very organized and I like everything planned out. But sometimes the water can be a bit rough when the weather is bad and our boat becomes unstable.
So here’s my advice.

  1. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. There’s always someone you can get guidance from.
  2. Its OK to have a big goal, but make sure you set little, more manageable goals to get to the big goal.
  3. Take advice from others, but adapt it to suit your situation.

Following these tips is how I got to where I am now.

I have a much clearer picture of where I am headed. It is still hard work to get there, but I know I can do it. Having a strong belief and values system can help you get there. Don’t let other people diminish what values and beliefs are important to you. They are there for a reason. Here are my top three values and beliefs.

  1. Honesty. Keep it real. I don’t shy away from things I need to say.
  2. Genuineness, authenticity. In my friendships, I treat other people how I want to be treated. When I put out honesty in friendship, that’s what I get back. If I keep being honest, they will accept me for me. I don’t want to be a fake friend.
  3. Determination. Believing in myself is so important. When “I know I can do it”, I know I will eventually get there. And it will be worth the effort.

Next year, my map clearly shows I’m off to university. Some things are certain and some things are still unknown and it can feel like I’m wearing a blindfold and stepping off into unchartered deep waters. But in my boat, I have the support of friends from year 12, I am determined to hold onto. I also have the support of my family.

With my beliefs and values intact, I know that whatever comes my way, I will swim, not sink.

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