Living A Good Life. 14 Suggestions for the Class of 2014
What does it take to lead a fulfilling life?
Duke Today asked faculty, staff and alumni to share advice with this year’s graduating class. Here are 14 of their responses, illustrated by Duke Today designer Jonathan Lee.
“Read outside of your chosen field, read broadly, read enthusiastically. Creativity is a necessary life skill and some inspirations will come from unexpected sources.”
“As you move forward into the next stage of your life, do not forget to stop and look back to discover the meaning of where you have been. That will help you better understand who you are, where you may be heading, and how you can get there.”
“Don’t be afraid to diverge from your ‘plan.’ Embrace ambiguity. The uncertain and what may appear high risk in relationships, jobs and life is usually very cool and worthwhile.”
“Learn to reframe rejection. Whether you’re working towards a leadership position or building a company, people will frequently tell you no. Instead of seeing it as a shutdown, look at it as an opportunity to figure out why. Are you asking the wrong person? Have you not yet demonstrated you can handle the new responsibility? Over time, ‘no’ becomes just another opportunity to wait, learn and try again.”
“People always obsess over big decisions (e.g., which job/ position to accept), but really, tomorrow will always be a blur. Plan with calmness, and then take the leap in the direction you think is best, knowing that there will rarely be a ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ but just a choice that leads to the next steps of life.”