The time void
The time void
August 31, 2012
I graduated from university with a sense of relief, determined to start my career and make things happen. However, after working for a couple of months, I started to feel as if I had too much disposable time on my hands.
This was a day in the life of Rob, post-graduation:
- 6:30 a.m.: Wake up for work.
- 7:30 a.m.: Arrive at work.
- 4:00 p.m.: Leave work.
- 4:30 p.m.: Arrive at home.
- 4:30 to 9:30 p.m.: Wonder what to do next.
- 10:00 p.m.: Go to bed.
- Next day: Wash, rinse, and repeat.
School filled up so much of my free time that, when it was over, I was left with a huge void in my life. To help fill the extra hours, I spent time with friends, read leisurely (for the first time in years), did some travelling, and visited family—but I soon started to crave more consistent time-fillers.
To help you avoid a similar situation after graduation, here are some tips:
- Consider pursuing volunteer opportunities while you’re working (or looking for work). It’s a great way to learn new skills and gain insight into career options you might never have thought of! It’s also a great opportunity to network.
- Start working on maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. Try doing daily exercises; join a group exercise program or even a gym.
- Never give up on learning. Consider pursuing additional training or certification through a local community college or university. Some courses are offered part-time, in the evening, or even on weekends. You can work and learn!
I ended up joining the gym! It threw a great curveball into my dreary routine of work, sleep, and then work again.
How do you fill your post-grad time?