When life doesn't go as planned, we may sit around and think about missed opportunities. Instead of thinking too much about situations that went down the wrong path, it is better to understand why they did. Recently, I've been stressing a lot about how I could have taken a certain class, so I would not have to take a semester this summer. Or I should have pursued that internship that I wanted to take at a certain company with the difficult schedule. However, I managed to figure out a plan B to that internship ordeal and I will press on and take my courses during the semester. Understanding my goals, and how far I have come, inspires me to keep going.

When feeling discouraged, try to have an attitude of gratitude. I don't regret my journey up until now, and I believe that everything had to happen for a reason. It is what made me who I am today. The common belief that we should try to forget the people who made our journey even harder is misguided. Remembering the problems we go through can help inspire us for a better tomorrow, rather than fear. It is a learning lesson, and I won't forget it.

Don't rely on others to carry out your plans. Don't entirely give too much power over your dreams to others. There is nothing more fulfilling than having control over what you want to do. Just as it felt great to create your own schedule and workday during the first semesters of college. You are continually planting the seeds for your life.

Remember to keep the bigger picture in mind. Sometimes we can become distracted by little details that aren't lining up the way we want them to. If we get too caught up in perfectionism, we will never move forward. Be patient with yourself and accept imperfect progress over stagnation.