I never thought I’d get where I am from where I was.
A year ago, I was a nervous freshman in a class filled with sophomores, learning how to write the basics of a news story. I didn’t know if I’d be good at this reporting stuff, and the mere thought of interviewing people all over campus was enough stress to induce a chronic eye twitch. Just three classes into the course and I was already questioning the sanity of my career choice.
Today, I am the managing editor of this university’s student newspaper.
To clarify, I’m not bragging. I’m not even attempting the ever-popular humble brag. This is tough, more so than I ever imagined.
What I’m trying to say is that I decided on something, and I worked to get it. And besides gender, ethnicity and/or appearances, there isn’t so much of a difference between you and me.
You know what you want to do, so go and do it.
Yes, that’s easier said than done, but what if you just haven’t tried hard enough?
I’ll admit I could have done better on countless projects and exams. I could have applied for that one position. I could have taken initiative sooner. And who knows, maybe I would be so much more than I am now.
But what matters is that I awake each morning and know that, today, I possess the power to do whatever I set my mind to.
Today is the last day of January. Thirty-one days ago you had the chance to make resolutions. You either stuck with those wishes – go you, that’s awesome – or you let them fade.
If you’re of the latter category, such as myself, I urge you to forget those resolutions. They were wishes, idealizations of what the distant future could hold.
Instead, make decisions. Focus on one day at a time. Tackle the little things first.
Stuck in the “late-sleeper” cycle? Wake yourself up early to watch the sunrise. Putting off that essay until a divine revelation intercedes? Read the materials, pick up a pen and write. Want to do better on that next pop quiz? Choose to study now, instead of getting lost on social media until 1 a.m.
Mornings are tough, commitments get in the way and your overall essence may beg you to rest for just a little longer. I urge you to get up and get going.
