Why Gaining Independence Your First Year Of Post-Grad Is So Important

Graduating from college is a significant milestone for many individuals. It signifies the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting, new chapter in life. For most recent graduates, the first year of post-grad life can be a challenging transition that no one truly prepares you for. One of the most crucial things that you can do during your first years of post-grad time is to gain independence. Here's why.

The Importance of Being Comfortable with Yourself

One of the most significant advantages of gaining independence is that it helps you become more comfortable with yourself. When you're no longer dependent on your parents or college friends, you're forced to rely on yourself for everything from paying bills to making new friends. This can be intimidating at first, but it also gives you the opportunity to learn more about who you are as a person. You'll discover your strengths and weaknesses, and you'll learn how to navigate the world on your terms. Being independent allows for freedom to do what you want when you want. Your life depends on YOUR decisions now.

Being comfortable with yourself means you trust yourself to make the right decisions that align with your beliefs and values. When you're not constantly seeking validation from others, you're free to pursue your passions and interests without fear of judgment. This can be incredibly liberating and empowering, and it can help you create a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Opportunities will come your way and you will have the ability to create the dream life you have always wanted. But only you can do that for yourself.

Go Out and Do Things on Your Own

Another scary but essential aspect of gaining independence is being able to go out and do things on your own. This might mean traveling solo, trying out new hobbies, or simply going to a movie by yourself. When you're not afraid to do things alone, you open yourself up to new experiences and opportunities. You'll also become more confident in your ability to be present in public. You will be able to fully observe your surroundings and take in who and what is around you.

When you're not constantly surrounded by familiar faces, you're forced to rely on your instincts and judgment. This can be frightening at first, but it can also be incredibly humbling. And the hardest part about doing things alone? Avoiding constant “nose in the phone.” When you are practicing doing things on your own, keep the phone down. Sit, and look around you.

If you are anxiously scrolling through your phone to look busy, you are missing the opportunity to grow as an independent person. Put the phone on do not disturb and enjoy your “you” time. One day, you will be wishing you had this time back. Enjoy it now while you can. Do the things you always want to do but can’t seem to get anyone to do them with you. Never be afraid of spoiling yourself a little bit.

When You Depend on Others Less, You Find Out More About Yourself

Gaining independence is critical to discovering more about yourself. When you're not constantly relying on others, you're forced to take charge of your life. This means making decisions based on your wants and needs, rather than what other people think is best for you. By doing this, you'll learn what truly makes you happy and fulfilled, and you'll be able to make choices that align with your values and goals. The world opens up when you take charge of your life.

When you depend on others less, you also have the opportunity to explore new interests and passions. This might mean taking up a new hobby, traveling to a new place, or simply trying something new. You'll develop a deeper understanding of what you want out of life that you might not have thought about before. Try as many new things as you can to become a more well-rounded person. You never know what skill or hobby you will pick up!

You Learn to Set More Boundaries

Setting boundaries is vital to protecting your peace. When you're no longer dependent on others, you have the freedom to decide who you want to spend time with and how you want to spend your time. This means saying no to things that you don’t want to do and setting boundaries with people who don't respect your choices. By doing this, you'll learn to prioritize your needs. Never feel bad for saying no to someone if it means you are better off. Make the best decision for yourself, not others. If you do not feel like doing something, do not do it. Plain and simple.

Setting boundaries allows you to protect your mental and emotional health. When you're constantly saying yes to everything and everyone, you can quickly become overwhelmed and burnt out. Social and professional exhaustion can quickly sneak up on you. By setting boundaries, you'll be able to create a healthy work-life balance, and you'll be able to prioritize the things that truly matter to you. Time is something you can never get back. Do not waste it doing things that are not serving you a purpose. If you do not find value in it, do not waste your precious minutes on this earth.

Having more time dedicated to yourself allows you to recharge and rejuvenate. When you're constantly on the go and surrounded by others, it can be challenging to find time for self-care and reflection. By carving out time for yourself, you'll be able to prioritize your mental and emotional health, and you'll be able to create a life that feels balanced and fulfilling.

Gaining independence during your first year of post-grad life is incredibly important. While it can be intimidating to take the leap into independence, it's a necessary step in becoming a confident and successful person. You are beginning this new chapter and you now can make the life you have always wanted. Never sell yourself short and always push for your dreams. Go out there and take charge of your life!