Over the past two days, we have looked at different ways that you can be an encouragement to a graduate this year. Today we will cover the third and final idea for “Guiding Graduates.”
- Encourage them to make goals and try new things.
Life after high school is both a scary and exciting time. Let them know that this is only the beginning of their story. Encourage them to make goals and to give each goal a timeframe. A key to reaching goals is developing a deadline. Deadlines provide accountability. Promote trying new things. The world is full of variety and they will learn a lot about themselves by daring to do something new! As Kaleigh Bishop said, “pray for opportunity and the courage to take chances. God will give you new adventures and experiences that you may have never expected.”
Consider helping them make a list of goals. Try “10 things to do in the next four years” or draw up a categorized list of something they want to accomplish in different life categories such as spirituality (maybe going on a mission trip) or relationships (getting a mentor). Make sure they know that continued self-development is a huge part of leading a successful life. When they understand who they are and who they want to be, it’ll be a lot easier to navigate in the world.
If they are moving away, underline the importance of finding a church to be planted in. Attending new churches can be terrifying but necessary. Spiritual goals are much harder to meet when you aren’t planted in a strong Bible-based church. As they grow in their adult life and in their spiritual life, they’ll have more and more opportunities to make a difference in other peoples’ lives. Josh Lafferty suggests reminding them to “believe your voice can mean something” and encourage them to use it to be a catalyst of their generation.
No matter what advice you give to a graduate, always remember to be genuine. Do this out of love for Jesus and for the person that you are encouraging. Just like God created them
for a higher purpose, he did the same for you. Right now your purpose is to be a rock for a graduate in a vulnerable time!
Skye is currently working as a freelance writer and editor. She has a background in mass & interpersonal communication as well as creative and professional writing. In her free time, Skye enjoys reading books, traveling, and watching as many movies as she can. She’s always looking for the next great adventure and is currently working on a self-written list of 30 Things To Do Before Turning 30. She also has an unnatural obsession with candy and vanilla coke.