September - Growing Pains

Life has been weird lately. Normally, I would be getting ready for my 8am class, but instead I'm writing this blog because I graduated in May.

There are no more 8ams or English classes to attend.

but what next?

That's what I keep being asked, and it's honestly... it's exhausting.

and I know I'm not the only one feeling this way.

The thing is, I can confidently say I'm a different person than I was when I graduated in May.

It's so comforting that the people closest to me have pointed it out.

Here's what I want you to know (no matter what season you are in)

1. you do not have to have it all figured out

2. drown out the noise

3. don't compare your journey to others (especially people on instagram)

4. you and your journey are unique. God has specified your purpose just for you. A purpose ONLY YOU can accomplish.

5. Be obedient to the Lord, and the Lord will open doors for you.

6. Be patient - the Lord's timing is perfect.

7. Don't waste the waiting. Exercise your gift(s) God has given you.

8. focus on THE WORD

9. throw out your timeline.

10. Say "yes" even if it's scary or not what you expected. If God is in it you will not fail.

Adulting is hard ya'll, but there is no specific "look" despite what people may tell you, expect of you, or what you see on social media.

You don't have to have the job lined up right after graduation.

You don't have to go to college.

You don't have to go to grad school.

You don't have to use your degree to be successful

It's okay to get your GED.

it's okay to change your major. (even if it's several times)

taking a break is okay

Do not feel bad for taking care of yourself.

My last semester of college I had a freak out moment because I realized one day.

"oh my gosh, I only have a few more months with my best friends"

"what if long distance friendships don't make it?" (My friends and I are doing fine. Although I do miss seeing their faces every day.)

"I've been a college student for 4 1/2 years. What the heck do I do?"

I was so scared of what was to come, and the changes that were going to take place.

I want to encourage you wherever you are in life:

1. post grad (high school or college - it doesn't matter how long it's been)

2. college students

3. momma's

4. seniors

5. the person struggling alone

6. the person who feels under pressure by the world

7. families trying to do their best for themselves and their children

8. people who are overwhelmed

9. the person who is in a flourishing season

10. the person who is working towards his or her dream

11. my single people

12. the person who is struggling to know their purpose.

13. the person who is lonely

Growing hurts

You are not alone.

it's okay not to know.

Don't let the world's opinions of you and where you are at in your life grab hold of your emotions. God's opinion of you is the only opinion that matters

Follow Him

instagram: @laurenvictoria__