Starting a New Journey

Do you remember your first day in Primary school? The anxiety you felt? The reluctance to let go of your father or mother? The start of a new journey can be an intimidating experience. And there are many instances in life when we may feel like the little child on the first day of school again.

You may be starting on your university education, going for your first job interview, facing a new independent life after a divorce, or beginning work on that new million-dollar account. Whatever it is, emotions run high during these times and if you find yourself overwhelmed, good. You're normal!

It must feel lonely to think that you're embarking on a brand new chapter of your life all by yourself. The truth is, you're not, and that's exactly why you're normal. It's okay to be flustered or nervous about starting something new. Change is one of the hardest things for people to accept it. It sure would be convenient to stay within your comfort zone.

But if you were to completely avoid change, you would also miss the triumphs and joys of daily life. Great people you would not have met, enriching experiences you would not have had. And while we may think we can do without any challenges, it's those very lessons that we learn from the most. While we strive to be perfect and give others a great first impression of our abilities and ourselves, we lose sight of the fact that it's okay to make mistakes. That's how we learn!

Questions of whether you will fit in or like the new environment will always be on your mind. These questions can make you nervous because your natural reaction is to spot the uncertain then dwell on it. But by accepting the fact that you cannot predict the future, you will empower yourself to make the best of today.

We've all heard many times before to "be yourself" when meeting others for the first time. But it's more than simply being yourself; it's about being your positive self. Make it easy for others to enjoy your company. Take the time out to brighten the day of others by smiling as you wish them good morning. Focus on the positive and try your best to avoid complaining. Remember that others enjoy spending time with those who raise them up, not bring them down.

Also, people will enjoy your company if you enjoy theirs. Take an interest in them, their families, passions and work. Then listen to the answers! When you listen, listen actively and attentively.

Open your eyes, heart and mind to the new environment. You may not instantly love the new experience, but at least you will learn a few lessons along the way.

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Eugine Loh, 938Live, MediaCorp Pte Ltd