Unlock the hidden power of “I don’t know!”
As senior year fast approaches and those important (pesky) college essays loom that need answers, consider this scenario.
What do you want to be when you grow up? “I don’t know.” What do you want your major to be in college? “I don’t know.” Do you want to earn a minor too? “I don’t know.” Do you plan to study abroad? “I don’t know.” Where do you want to live after graduation from college? “I don’t know.”
Now consider this alternative.
What do you want to be when you grow up? “I am keeping an open mind, but I know I have interests in helping people and animals. What do you want your major to be in college? “I am keeping an open mind, but I know I have interests in psychology, media and history.” A few other answers to this question might include “I am keeping an open mind, but I know I have interests in pre-health, biology and jazz ensembles.” “I am keeping an open mind, but I have interests in math, environmental science and sustainability.” “I am keeping an open mind, but I have interests in food, communications and marketing.” “I am keeping an open mind, but I have interests in numbers, business and music.” And so on…
From this day forward choose to simply tap into the positive memories you have already lived to list what you find appealing. Cozy up in your favorite place with a device – or maybe even use my favorite, a moleskin journal. I keep one with me wherever I go so I always have a place to record an idea, without worrying about whether it is a good one or not. If you like to think out loud, make time to talk to a trusted friend or relative to unravel your thoughts. You get the idea.
College admission readers know that research shows that over 60% of college students change a chosen major at least one time. I believe that after surviving the life of the pandemic in high school classrooms online, that number will skyrocket.
Put the brakes on worrying and wondering about your future. Instead make this small change in your daily life. It is time to throw away the “I don’t know” and instead unlock the power of “I am keeping an open mind.” With hundreds of student interactions in mind, I can say confidently that with this more positive phrase, conversations last longer and practical questions get asked that point toward meaningful insights. Even more importantly, positive vibes surround a first impression with a teacher, a school counselor, or a college admission recruiter at a college fair or a high school visit.
So, throw the phrase “I don’t know!” behind you forever. Embrace your future with an open mind and get excited about the infinite possibilities ahead of you.
