What are you going to do with your life?

College students HATE this question. We don't want to decide what we're doing with our lives because then we have to face the fact that we have to make decisions for ourselves and lead our own lives. This is a huge decision. I had a panic attack recently when thinking about this question. I'd like to share a few tips that calmed me down.

1. Take a deep breath- everyone has had to answer this question. There is something out there for you- some apartment, some job, some activity that will fulfill you. You won't be stuck wondering and wandering around forever. Most likely you're not going to end up as a bum on the street, so take a deep breathe, you can do this.

2. Make a plan- everything seems more manageable with a plan. Talk to your advisor, your parents, your friends, and come up with a plan. Then find out the best way t put that plan into action. This will immediately relieve stress. Just the thought that I would have a plan soon helped me.

3. You don't have to choose everything right now- Many people change jobs several times. Chances are you aren't going to stay at your first real job forever. So you're not making a decision that will effect the course of your entire life. And don't forget, if you don't like it, you can change your mind. And don't be afraid of that, because most people do.

4. Be smart about your decisions- Shoot for that dream career, just have a back-up plan. Decide what you want to do and then don't be afraid if it's going to take you a while to get there. Think of some awesome thing to do in the meantime, or a job that will help you get to that dream job. Not many people start out with their dream job, many have to work for it and pay their dues, and that's fine.

5. Get excited!- You get to plan your amazing life! Make the most of it!