Graduation is such a monumental milestone in our lives, isn’t it?
This week, I bawled my eyes out watching my oldest nephew graduate + has me feeling nostalgic about all the ups, downs, + sideways turns that got me to where I am today.
In my grade 12 yearbook, I wrote that my future goal was to be “the weather girl on A Channel”, + even though I feel like my career far surpassed that goal, 17-year-old Kahla was on to something.
I have spent the last 20 years as a professional speaker, on stages, television, + on radio + from “I have no idea what I’m doing” to “I can’t believe I did that!” – here are the five biggest life lessons I’ve learned so far:
ONE: There are no new ideas. Here’s the truth: it’s not about creating something completely groundbreaking every time. It’s about infusing your own unique twist, your own style, + your own experiences into the mix. Embrace your creativity, + add your personal touch to everything you do!
TWO: There’s no competition. Remember, no one can do what you do the way you do it. Yup, you heard it right. Nobody can sprinkle their magic like you do. So, embrace your own style + authenticity, + watch as your people gather ’round to bask in your awesomeness.
THREE: There is no such thing as perfection. It’s subjective. That’s what makes us unique. As a creator, I’ve learned that even if I pour my heart into a design or product, someone else’s idea of perfection might be different. But hey, that doesn’t make it any less perfect to me.
FOUR: There’s no pleasing everyone. It’s a wild world out there, + someone, somewhere is bound to have an opinion about what you’re doing. But here’s the secret sauce to happiness: be true to yourself! Do what brings you the most joy, fulfillment, + pride. Sleep tight knowing you’re living life on your own terms.
FIVE: There’s no need to struggle + suffer. Who says life has to be all struggle + suffering? Not me! Put a little dose of ease + fun in that hustle of yours. Sure, challenges may come knocking, but how you approach them can make all the difference. Open that mind wide, embrace that positive outlook, + watch as the magic unfolds. It may not make the challenges disappear, but it’ll make your day one heck of an enjoyable ride!
So, let’s raise a glass to the late nights, crazy deadlines, + all the victories that got us here. I’d like to think the 17-year-old versions of us are proud. What are the most important life lessons you’ve learned? Share below!
And if you have a burning question or need some advice – I’m here to help! Shoot me an email + let’s chat kahla@heykahla.com!
–Kahla