We are not promised tomorrow.
I know you’ve heard this before, and every once in a while, you’ll say you want to live life to the fullest because something bad happens and you realize how grateful you are to be alive.
Don’t wait for something bad to happen. Start now. Start today.
Wake up early, get your homework done, send that risky text, call your old friend, hang out with your mom, join that club. Do whatever it is you’ve been putting off. As university students we follow the art of procrastination so religiously that we even apply it to our private lives. Don’t let silence grow between you and someone you care about. Don’t let an argument or fight last unnecessarily long.
On the other hand, if something is over or in the past, get over it. Focus your attention elsewhere.
I know it’s easier said than done. Believe me, even I struggle to follow my own advice. But this is a reminder that you can always try. You never know when your life is going to change direction or what might come up unexpectedly. It’s hard to be prepared for change, but if you live every day with purpose and intention, you’ll likely feel more prepared…or at least you won’t have regrets.
Our society enforces a lot of unspoken rules about our behaviour with others. Sometimes, they can be handy. But other times, they’re just kind of dumb. Why aren’t we allowed to double text? Why do I have to pretend I’m still mad at someone if I’m not? Why do I have to wait until I’m an upper year to have a leadership position?
My dear UTM friends, I highly encourage you to do whatever it is you really want to do within the limits of your life. That said, be responsible about it. I’m not saying you should ignore all your school work and job commitments to go party with your friends every night because that’s what you really want to do. But, if that’s something you really want right now, make time in your schedule. Organize your schedule so that you have at least one night off where you can have a good time without feeling guilty or blowing off all your responsibilities. It’s doable.
Take a look around you and count your blessings. You’re alive today and you have a lot to live for, even if you don’t always see it. Make the most of what you’ve got and strive to be the best version of you that you can be today.
And for goodness sake, be nice to people. It’s cute and funny when friends or classmates tease each other, but it’s also appreciated when you compliment others, remind people of their significance, and take time out of your schedule to show someone you care. It will go a long way, and you’d know it if you’ve ever been on the receiving end.
