Today, I am celebrating my 32nd birthday. It seemed like yesterday I was just getting into my 30s, let alone being 22! 🙂 It made me realize how time has flown by and a lot has happened since I was 22. I was just finishing up my bachelor’s degree at the University of Florida and planning the process of graduating with my degree and applying to graduate school. I also was taking the GRE around this time and thinking about what the future would hold for me.
Ten years later, I can say that they have really been filled with life long lessons, great experiences, time with my amazing family and friends, travels all around the world, and of course working hard. Both physically and of course mentally. During this time, I was finishing up my collegiate eligibility as a track and field athlete and transitioning into my new profession in PR. I spent the last six of the ten years in graduate school – that makes you think for sure. However, there are some lessons I have learned in these last ten years that have shaped me into this person and professional I am today.
- Invest in experiences: We seem to focus on getting new cars, phones, etc – however, we need to be investing in ourselves. Our experiences and the lessons we learn from them are what matter. In the ten years since I was 22, I have traveled to more countries than I ever thought was possible. The stories, people, and lessons I learned from this have been invaluable.
- Working hard: It will pay off – trust me. I learned how to work hard as an athlete, and it has transferred over to what I am doing now. I am no longer throwing the shot put, but I am still spending the same quality time researching, working on papers and projects, and investing in my profession to be the best I can be.
- Life is too short to have drama: Taking each day as a gift is key. Spend time with those who support, encourage, and really value you as a person. I have been very fortunate to have an amazing family and have besties who are there for me at any time. Life is precious and should be celebrated!
- Learn from your mistakes and be persistent: I was pretty dedicated and focused as an athlete, and that helped me over come challenges and obstacles over the years. Along with hard work, persistence is the other key to the equation. You have to be focused and yes, you may face obstacles that are road blocks for you. You need to evaluate the situation and figure out what to do next in Plan B. You may have to go through several plans, but keeping your eye on the prize is key.
Karla drew a really cute picture for me to celebrate my birthday – thanks Karla! She’s very talented!
Hope you all are having a great day!
Best Wishes,
Karen
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