Graduating from the university is an experience most undergraduates look forward to but when graduation itself comes, post-graduation anxiety comes knocking.
It’s a period where you have to separate from people you have bonded with over time, and the routine you have become accustomed to.
Everyone talks about life after graduation; the job, promotions, vacations, and marriage like it’s easy to navigate.
What universities don’t prepare us for is the roller coaster of emotions you feel about transitions into real life where you have no laid down routine or guidance.
It becomes worse when you have not figured out exactly what you want to do and the pressure that comes from the family relying on you to feed them.
However, it is totally normal to feel lost after graduating as post-graduation anxiety affects young adults who are finding it hard to adapt to real-life situations.
It is important to remember that it is okay for you to feel this way and that you are not alone.
Signs of Post graduation anxiety
While it has not been officially diagnosed due to a lack of studies in that area, some of the common symptoms of post-graduation anxiety include;
- A lack of motivation
- Being generally pessimistic
- Substance abuse
- Staying in bed all day and lack of concentration
Tips to help overcome post-graduation anxiety
As you enter the real world, try to shift your perspective and adopt the growth mindset. Don’t let rejections weigh you down rather see it as a learning experience.
- Don’t compare yourself to others
One thing that is common nowadays is the fact that many people compare themselves to others. Social media has also contributed to this and many young people are looking for a chance to show the world that they have made it at a particular age.
This comparison and the urge to post only your achievements can lead to depression.
Everyone has their time to succeed; instead of comparing yourself to others, learn new things, network with others, and be intentional about your growth.
- Focus on the present
Remember how you said that you want to work at one of the big 5 companies after graduation?
It might happen and it might not happen. Rather than obsessing over whether or would or not, work on the skills you need, and live in the moment. Don’t beat yourself up as it won’t solve anything.
- Get a professional mentor
If you are having a hard time getting jobs or you notice that no recruiter gets back to you after applying for a job, you can seek the help of professionals in that field.
You can always reach out to the same people you compare yourself to or go on Linkedin and send cold emails to professionals. It is normal if you don’t get any reply, just keep trying but don’t do it in a way that would become overwhelming for the other person.
- Find something you are passionate about
If you are passionate about other things like cooking, sport, or painting, find a way to invest in those things too. Regain your focus by doing other things that make you happy.
- Trust the process
While this is not an aspire to perspire post, it is necessary for you to not only believe in yourself but what you are doing. The moment you stop worrying about how everything should be in your life, you will get access to more opportunities to learn and grow.
Don’t allow your uncertainty about the future to consume your present life.
Take a deep breath and set realistic expectations for yourself.