Highlights from 30 Weeks of Next Steps
...and a note about what's next.
30 weeks ago, I decided to commit to writing again, sharing lessons I’m learning as I’m learning them. Since then, we’ve covered everything from career choices to jealousy, from showing up to stepping down. I’ve learned a lot in these last few months as I’ve finished college, moved across the state, and started a new job. For all the change in my life, there have been a few constants; thank you, dear reader, for sticking with me all these weeks.
These Tuesday morning posts will keep showing up in your inbox, but now it will be every other week instead of weekly. In this season of life, I’m shifting some things around to stay balanced—writing is deeply meaningful to me, and this will allow me to spend more time on each piece instead of rushing to have something posted every week. Thank you, again, for making this project mean so much to me.
With that, let’s get on to the highlights. These five posts were some of my favorites to write because they resonated so deeply with me, and consequently they seemed to resonate deeply with you. Take a trip down memory lane and make sure to share any or all of these pieces with friends who could use some encouragement.
Kill Your Envy
I don’t want to admit this to you. It’s something I’m genuinely ashamed of. But, I think that’s why I need to admit it.
I have a big problem with jealousy.
My natural tendency is to see the rest of the world as my competition, so whenever someone shows up who threatens my self-determined competitive edges, my defense mechanism kicks in. Unfortunately...
Don't You Dare Self-Eliminate
People like me don’t do that.”
I can almost feel the caffeine running through my veins as I wrap my wrists, chalky hands shaking. Making an attempt at a deep breath...
Don't Network Like Everyone Else
There was this one time I attended a conference on sustainable agriculture because my favorite podcast hosts were on the agenda. Little did I know that 1) only three other attendees (out of hundreds) were also college students, and 2) I would end up with a summer internship simply because I showed up, introduced myself to the podcast host, and...
No One Actually Knows What They're Doing With Their Lives
Have you ever felt like you don’t know what you’re supposed to do with your life? Perhaps, in those seasons, you felt like you were the only one. I’ve been there, too. The more I talk to successful, well-established adults, the more I realize: it’s not just you and me.
The Dying Art of Showing Up
As she rounded the last corner of the route, an ill-placed hill standing between her tired feet and the finish line, determination was written all over her face. Suddenly, joy layered on top of the determination as she was greeted by the cheers of her friends on the edge of the track. Christina finished her second half-marathon with a smile on her face …
Journal Prompt of the Week
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned so far this year? How are you living your life differently as a result?
Share with the Community
Which of these posts hit closest to home for you? Did your favorite not make the list? If so, which was it and why did you appreciate it?
P.S. I only learn so much from looking at stats; what really matters to me is your genuine reactions to the writings I share. If something stands out to you, please reach out and let me know! If you disagree, I want to hear from you, too. I’m always open to feedback, ideas for future topics to cover, and stories of how The Next Step has influenced your life. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being here.