As a student, you may have been led to believe that getting a good degree is the sole determinant of success, so you work hard and put in the effort to achieve that goal. While academic achievements are important, it’s crucial to understand that obtaining a formal education from a university or any other tertiary institution of learning is different from preparing for the world out there and life itself.
The world will test you in ways different from the examinations you take in school. Since you may not have learned much about the real world yet, I would like to highlight five important things about the real world you must keep in mind before graduating.
A Good Degree Does Not Guarantee A Good Job; Your Creativity and Skills do
Obtaining a degree is valuable, but gone are the days when jobs would automatically be waiting for you upon graduation. In today’s job market, what matters is not just your degree but what you can offer and contribute.
There are thousands of unemployed individuals with similar qualifications. To stand out, you need to focus on developing your skills, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving capabilities. Sometimes, a skill you might consider menial can actually earn you more than your degree.
Look for practical skills within your field of study and beyond. In the real world, you need both hard skills (e.g., proficiency in a foreign language, computer programming, etc.) and soft skills (e.g., communication, time management, teamwork, etc.) to succeed.
“Your “As” in School Will Not Guarantee Success in the Real World
It’s worth noting that your excellent grades in school do not necessarily translate to success in the real world. There are numerous stories of individuals who excelled academically but struggled later in life.
Robert Kiyosaki, a successful entrepreneur, shared a personal anecdote about his own experience. He and one of his close friends named Mike were lined up in front of a small group of students made up primarily of the leaders (bright students) of their class. Their guidance counselor turned to him and Mike and said, “The two of you will never amount to anything,” primarily because they were doing terribly poorly academically.
A few years after graduation, Robert and Mike went for their High School reunion, and Guess what? The so-called class leaders were still struggling and had not become successful in the years after high school. Robert and his friend Mike are already successful, big-time entrepreneurs.
Success in life requires more than just good grades. It involves the application of success principles, which are often not taught in school. Take the initiative to self-educate and develop yourself beyond the pursuit of grades. Learn and apply universal principles of success in all areas of your life.
Your Network Is as Important as Your Knowledge
While your knowledge and skills may be sufficient for navigating through school, in the real world, your network of connections is equally important. I’m not suggesting that success solely depends on having connections, but having the right connections can make your journey easier and faster.
It’s crucial to build and maintain relationships with people who can support and guide you. Learn to leverage your connections when needed. Remember, your skills and knowledge matter, but so do the people you know. Both aspects are important for your overall success.
Financial Management is crucial
In the real world, money plays a significant role. It provides for your basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter. If you’ve been fortunate enough to receive financial support from family and friends without actively earning it, you may not fully grasp the value of money. However, this privilege may not last forever.
It’s essential to learn how to manage your finances effectively to avoid financial difficulties in the future. I have three rules for you when it comes to money management: Save it, invest it, and multiply it. By understanding the importance of money and practicing responsible financial habits, you can avoid unnecessary debt and financial hardships.
True Success Requires Time and dedication
True success is not something that happens overnight. It is a process that requires the accumulation of certain habits and principles over time. The road to success is often filled with challenges and setbacks.
Many individuals are tempted to take shortcuts that may seem enticing but ultimately prove counterproductive in the long run. The key to hastening success lies in having a PHD: passion, hunger, and drive. Cultivate a strong sense of purpose and determination in everything you do. Additionally, don’t forget the importance of incorporating your beliefs and values, including faith, into your pursuit of success.
As you embark on your journey beyond graduation, keep these points in mind. Remember that formal education is just the beginning, and there is much more to learn and experience in the real world. Stay committed to continuous growth, embrace the challenges, build meaningful connections, manage your finances wisely, and dedicate yourself to the pursuit of true success.