By Kevin Williams
Graduates today receive an overwhelming flood of advice, much like the steady stream of credit card and loan offers that arrive after commencement. Well-meaning adults point toward a horizon and try to hand young people a compass. The trouble is that unlike map directions, life directions are subjective—what feels like north to one person can feel like east or west to another. Only you can decide which way you want to go.
I’ve spent the quarter-century since I tossed my cap into the air trying to figure out my own path. In that time I’ve learned a few things I wish I could tell my 17-year-old self. Here are the lessons I’d pass along:
EMBRACE ADVERSITY: You will make bad decisions—and you will make good ones. Use the setbacks as fuel for growth. Some of the richest soil comes from volcanic ash; let the heat and ruin of your worst moments enrich the ground of your life. Plow the ashes of adversity into your future and let them fertilize something stronger.
BE PATIENT: People find their stride at different times. Some arrive early, others after 10, 20, or even 30 years. Persistence matters more than timing. Keep going even if success takes longer than you expected.
STAY IN SHAPE: Your body will begin to resist you gradually. The more you invest in your physical well-being now, the longer you can delay those small declines. Run, lift weights, play tennis, swim, bike, hike—move regularly and protect that reservoir of youth.
OWN YOUR WORST, BUT CREATE YOUR BEST: Everyone has mistakes in their past. Accept them—own them—but don’t let them become your entire identity. Deliberately create and highlight your best moments so they shape who you are.
DEFINE YOURSELF: Material things fade and experiences pass. The truest thing you have is your story. Write it actively; don’t let others write it for you. Know your value—you’re capable and worthy. Remind yourself of that often.
BE UNCONVENTIONAL: Popular paths exist because many people follow them blindly. You don’t have to. If you choose thoughtfully, going somewhere different can lead to fresh opportunities and a life that’s truly yours.
BE CONVENTIONAL: At the same time, convention often exists for good reasons. Familiar approaches can work well. Balance creativity with proven methods when it makes sense.
TRUTH IS CURRENCY — Spend it wisely and accept it generously. Honesty builds trust and lasting relationships; guard and use it with care.
OTHER PRACTICAL ADVICE: Attend festivals and live events when you can. Visit the ocean often. Read widely. Learn to enjoy your own company—dine out or see a movie alone without fear. Learn to manage money early. Know when to follow rules and when to question them. Indulge in a good slice of pie now and then. If you’re curious about geography, try visiting high points in different states and study maps. Embrace history, learn to paint if it calls to you, and cultivate many friendships.
These are the things I would tell my younger self—practical, human-centered lessons meant to point you toward a life that feels like your own.