Fresh Outta High School 13 -

Short-term goals (13-18 years old)

The Excitement of Freedom

This week has been a mix of:

• Go to the party. But leave early enough to remember it.
• Tell your mom you love her. The silence of an empty house is louder than you think.
• Don't take out extra student loans for a "luxury" dorm. You will regret that $4,000 couch rental when you're 28.
• Take the photo. Even if you have acne. Even if your hair is stupid. Take the photo. In ten years, you will weep with joy seeing that stupid hair.
• You are not supposed to have it figured out. The most successful 30-year-olds you know were the biggest messes at 18. I promise.

• Be patient: Figuring out your life takes time. Don't put too much pressure on yourself to have everything figured out right away.
• Stay open-minded: Be willing to try new things, explore new interests, and take calculated risks.
• Seek support: Surround yourself with people who support and encourage you, whether it's family, friends, or a mentor.
• Focus on the present: Instead of worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, focus on what you can control in the present moment.