Growing up in any school system, all kids have known to do is follow a schedule. We were told when to eat lunch, when we could run, walk, have a snack or a water, and when and what we could read. Essentially, we had no control over our lives, until college. College is a whole different playing field. You set your own rules, stay in or go out whenever you please and, truly, you are your own parent.
It is a scary thought that at 18, maybe even 17, you have the choice to go out into the world and become what you want, how you want. We have all heard the saying that with great power comes great responsibility. I don't think this could ring truer to any college student. However, amidst all of the responsibilities and the self-parenting, sometimes you have to seize the beauty of being young and free.
There is something about being spontaneous that brings total excitement to your life. There is the beauty of tackling an adventure that you just thought of a few hours before, and you go just because it sounded fun. Maybe you try a foreign food to experience something new. Regardless of how much you love or dislike the experience, it can change you. It sparks a different quality inside you, an urge to not be so confined to a schedule or a plan. I find that some of my most treasured memories come from these unexpected places.
So, whether it is going on a beach trip that you decided to go on seven hours before, or deciding you are going to paint or lean how to play guitar, or learn to yodel -- do it with confidence.
Here are two quotes I believe put into perspective why we should be spontaneous and genuine. Live a little.
“I guess sometimes the greatest memories are made in the most unlikely of places, further proof that spontaneity is more rewarding than a meticulously planned life.” J.A. Redmerski, "The Edge of Always."
“Adventure is allowing the unexpected to happen to you. Exploration is experiencing what you have not experienced before. How can there be any adventure, any exploration, if you let somebody else - above all, a travel bureau - arrange everything before-hand?” Richard Aldington, "Death of a Hero."
