Jake M.
If you’re reading this, know that you have time.
Time to take a risk. Time to explore. Time to take a break and enjoy genuine moments with your friends and family.
As someone who’s always been incredibly competitive, I often catch myself racing towards the next internship, the next project, the next milestone that society says should matter. It’s so easy to fall into comparison - measuring yourself against peers in specific aspects, to the point where it feels that you are already behind, regardless of how much success you have already achieved. But the truth? Success isn’t linear whatsoever. Life unfolds differently for everyone. Some people hit their stride at 25, others at 50. Some stumble into opportunity by accident; others grind for years before the doors finally open. Life isn’t always fair, but nothing is ever set in stone.
The danger looms when we let this chase become all-consuming. It breeds stress, strains relationships, and blinds us to the unique opportunities that surround us daily. The picture is so much grander than the narrow timeline we have set for ourselves, which has been partially dictated by others. Have peace with the unknown. Trust that there is greatness ahead, even if it hasn’t revealed itself yet. Growing a career is certainly important; however, it is just as important to grow holistically.
If you have the chance to be spontaneous, take it. Learn to sail. Explore Asia. Do that overnight hike in 20-degree temperatures. Eat that hot pepper. Make that impulsive road trip out west with friends you met a week ago. This will help you grow. Chase the things that give you life, even if they don’t fit neatly into your “plan.” Because you have time - not just to pursue dreams, but to fail, reset, and pursue them again.
Obviously, this mindset switch is considerably more difficult in actual practice, but if you work at it daily, the mental clarity is incredible. Begin each day with a purpose, and while setting out to accomplish that purpose, leave some room to grow a new area of yourself.
Time is the greatest gift we have, but it’s also so different for everyone. As Tolstoy said, “The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.” Use time as a tool, not a couch. Work hard, yes, but don’t lose yourself trying to sprint the race of another. Your journey is your own. Be proud of it. And support others in theirs.
Lastly, never forget just how incredibly special Clemson is. This place, these people, this family - you get to be a part of it. Be a catalyst for the environment here. Add to it. Strengthen it. Cherish it. Smile often.
Carpe Diem
Love you all,
Jake M., Clemson University
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