When I heard JK Rowling say in an interview that she couldn't recall a single word from the commencement speech at her graduation, I laughed. The experience was mutual. Can you remember anything from the speech at your ceremony?
Graduation is celebratory, and yet it can often feel like a cocktail of emotions. There's the pride and relief of achievement, the anticipation of life's next stage... and maybe a summer holiday! There can be a sense of nostalgia recalling memories and knowing you may be moving away from classmates and friends. Sometimes there's a blend of fear and excitement about the future. The ceremonial music alone can bring on tears.
Whether you're graduating or not, it's always a great time to look back and think about what you've learned. How are you different today from the you a few years ago? What do you like better about yourself? Chances are, you've developed a new skill, attitude or picked up a dollop of wisdom. Celebrate yourself for it! And make sure your victories don't become long forgotten speeches - write them down.
Use cute little notecards and jot down one great thing you've learned or done today and put it in a jar. Keep this up, and at the end of the year, you'll see all the wonderful ways you've grown. Or, keep a journal that expands on moments you want to remember. Our brains have a negative bias when it comes to memory; override it and keep the positive alive by writing out the details. Remember the five W's & H: who, what, when, where, why and how. Add a little doodle or sketch, or snap a photo. Spray your notecards with the perfume you're wearing or add whatever triggers a pleasurable memory for you.
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LAMY Aion Rollerball Special Edition ~ The smooth deep-drawn aluminium body components are the first of their kind and give the series a unique, harmonious appearance. Made in Germany.
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Katie Leamon Luxury Personal Organizer ~ A beautiful keepsake gift for the new graduate. This luxury leather personal organizer is clean in its design, which lets the beautiful hide colour and texture speak for itself. Proudly made in England.
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Pilot MR1 Metropolitan Rollerball Pen ~ A smooth bodied pen, great for everyday use. It has a metal barrel, tip and clip and smooth plastic grip. Comes with a black gift box. Refillable and more environmentally-friendly than a disposable pen.
If you or your loved one is graduating this spring, we say, caps off! Congratulations on your achievement! We wish you a joyful, prosperous, and fulfilling future!