Shaking Off the Post-Graduation Blues: Your Guide to Success

Have you been feeling pretty down ever since your very last university lecture came to an end? Don’t worry; you’re definitely not alone in this. Loads of recent grads go through what they call the ‘post graduation blues.’

It’s a time when you’re trying to figure things out emotionally and mentally, and it can show up in all sorts of ways. There are a bunch of reasons why you might be feeling this way, and it could be triggered by:

• Transition stress: Graduating often marks a significant life transition. Leaving the structured environment of education and entering the uncertainty of the graduate job market or a new phase of life can spark anxiety and fear.
• Change in routine: After three years of attending classes, studying, and socialising with peers, the daily routine dramatically changes after graduation, which can be disorientating.
• Job market pressure: The pressure to find a job, especially in a competitive job market, can become a huge worry.
• Social isolation: Leaving the close-knit college or school community can result in a sense of isolation. It may become challenging to maintain the same level of social interaction and support as during the academic years.
• Uncertainty about the future: Graduates may feel apprehensive about what the next few months and years hold. You may feel nervous about choosing a career path and whether your education has adequately prepared you for the job market.

How to overcome post-graduation blues:

Acknowledge how you feel

Take a moment to come to terms with your emotions. Graduation is an enormous accomplishment and it’s likely to stir up a whirlwind of emotions within you – from that sigh of relief that you’ve got through it, to the sheer joy of achievement, to those nagging worries that you’re now on a new journey. It’s important to know that you’re not alone in this rollercoaster of emotions; there are countless others out there who are going through the exact same thing.

By understanding and accepting your feelings, you’re empowering yourself to navigate other life’s complexities that are thrown your way and ultimately evolve into a stronger, more resilient individual.

Stay connected

Once you leave university, it’s natural to feel cut off from your classmates – many of whom you may have become close friends with over the last few years.

They have shared your journey with you. You’ve experienced difficult assignments and great nights out together. And they perhaps even understand you on a more unique level than anyone else as they have witnessed your personal struggles and achievements.

Staying in contact ensures you don’t feel the loss so deeply in the days following graduation. And who knows; they may even become valuable networking contacts in your future development. They may end up securing a graduate job in industries or companies that align with your career interests, and their recommendations could lead you to new opportunities, internships, or collaborations in the future.

Explore multiple options

In the immediate aftermath of graduation, it’s not uncommon to find yourself feeling a little lost, while surrounded by peers who seem to be sprinting down the career path. You might be tempted to compare your journey to theirs, but the pace at which you move toward your goals should align with your own aspirations, passions, and personal circumstances.

Take a step back and breathe. Timing is everything when deciding what you really want to do with your life.

Some grads may opt for a gap year—a window of opportunity to explore the world and experience different cultures. Traveling can be an enlightening experience which fosters personal growth, self-confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world and yourself, as a person.

Others may choose to dive into internships or temporary roles, giving them a taste of various industries and professions. This hands-on experience can help you test the waters, gain valuable skills, and refine your career objectives.

During this phase of self-discovery, remind yourself that there’s no predefined timeline for success or a one-size-fits-all formula for getting on the right career path.

The journey is just as important (if not more so), than the destination…

Set a routine

In the days following graduation without a job offer in hand, it’s common to feel lost and without a sense of purpose. However, setting a daily routine can be a powerful tool to regain some stability during this period of transition – here are some ways to achieve this:

• Wake up with an intention: Start by setting a consistent wake-up time. Even though you may not have a job to rush to, waking up early helps establish a daily rhythm. It provides you with extra time in the morning to plan your day and reflect on your daily goals.
• Morning rituals: Incorporate morning rituals into your routine that promote a positive start to your day. This could include exercise, meditation, journaling, or a nutritious breakfast; all of which boost your energy and mindset.
• Skill development: Use some of your free time to enhance your skills. Consider taking online courses or workshops related to your chosen field. You may discover new interests or career areas that you had never considered before, as well as enhancing your employability.
• Physical activity: Stay active as regularly as you can. Exercise isn’t only essential for your physical health, but also has a positive impact on your mental well-being.
• Set goals: Establish daily, weekly, and monthly goals for yourself. These may be related to your job search or even your personal development.

If you’ve come to the decision that you’d like to find a graduate job, you’ve come to the right place here at Inspiring Interns.

We understand the unique challenges that recent graduates like you face – especially the dreaded post-graduation blues. Our mission is to provide you with the guidance, resources, and opportunities you need to embark on a successful career path.

Register with us today to get started!