I was ready!
But no one asked.
If I were to give a commencement speech for a high school or college, I would discuss the following points.
To the graduating class of 2025:
What is the biggest misconception many students have when graduating?
Many believe their life will follow a clear, predictable, linear path.
It will not.
Real life is unpredictable, messy and full of detours and surprises. Careers zigzag. Opportunities come from unexpected places. Setbacks happen. Passions change. The future rarely looks like the plan you have today.
I have some suggestions that will help you navigate the challenges and achieve success. My speech will only take four minutes. That deserves a big applause.
As you head into the future, keep these ideas in mind:
1. Take care of your mind, body and spirit.
Warren Buffett once said, “If you had only one car for your entire life, you’d take good care of it.” You only get one body.
- Be selective in what you eat and drink.
- Keep your self-talk accurate, kind and empowering.
- Develop a few reliable habits to manage stress — yoga, meditation, regular exercise or a trusted support group.
When your physical, emotional and mental health are in good shape, you will be most productive.
2. Close the gap — keep improving.
We all have a gap between our potential and our performance. Close it by seeking feedback, reflecting on your behavior, trying new approaches and committing to lifelong learning. Find a mentor to help you grow in areas that matter most.
The people who consistently close that gap are the ones who succeed.
3. Become really good at something.
It could be cooking, writing poetry, playing tennis, leading meetings or organizing a fundraiser. Mastery teaches you focus, discipline and perseverance. These essential traits will help you in all areas of your life. Additionally, being an expert enhances your confidence.
4. Identify the few critical behaviors.
In most pursuits, there are a handful of behaviors that produce excellent results. Winners focus on those. Observe the best performers and identify the three to five most important behaviors that will improve your performance.
5. Ask insightful questions.
A great question opens doors to insight, reframes problems and uncovers hidden opportunities. It signals curiosity and engages people. Those who ask the best questions often spark the most significant breakthroughs. What questions will you ask today?
6. Make eye contact.
When speaking or listening, maintain eye contact. It builds connection, signals respect and keeps you focused. Making eye contact indicates self-confidence and your interest in understanding what the other person is saying.
The most successful people are comfortable making eye contact.
7. Add value.
In all your conversations, meetings and gatherings, ask yourself this question: How can I add value? Identify what you can say or do to enhance the current situation. What do people need to move forward? What would strengthen the relationship? Be an attentive listener, supporter, and admirer.
8. Take ownership of your career.
Your career is yours to manage. Take time to plan the actions you will take to grow and develop. Consider the next position you will pursue, as well as the one after that. Use your network and mentors to help you identify and pursue the most suitable opportunities.
Let me end with this — the best thing, the worst thing and the first thing.
- The best thing you can do is take care of yourself and add value wherever you go.
- The worst thing you can do is this be a victim and blame others for your mistakes and setbacks.
- The first thing you need to do is share a few of your most positive memories of your college experience with the people who supported you over the past four years.
Best wishes, and thank you for allowing me to be part of your commencement.
Opinions expressed by SmartBrief contributors are their own.
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