There is a lot going on in life and it can feel overwhelming as you begin to think about this next chapter. You receive emails with checklist items or maybe new concerns about beginning from scratch have arisen and caused some anxiety. As you begin this journey, take time to breathe and reflect on important aspects of this process. Below is a guided reflection called the Examen, a technique of prayerful reflection that helps you detect God’s (or whatever way you feel called to practice your spirituality) presence and discern his direction for us.
1. Become Aware of God’s presence. Be still.
Take a deep breath. Become aware of what is around you – the sounds of your environment, the thoughts that come to the surface in your mind. Make still your thoughts and focus on your breathing. Feel that you are surrounded by God’s presence and find a calming nature at this moment.
2. Review with gratitude.
As I begin my college search process, for what am I grateful? For whom are you grateful? Think of everyone who has supported you in this journey.
Do I take these individuals for granted? Do I take this opportunity for granted?
What experiences so far have been challenging or have caused me to feel ungrateful, dissatisfied, or frustrated?
Am I becoming more grateful and contented?
This process is a gift, be grateful for it and for those who have helped me so far.
3. Pay attention to your emotions.
When I review the next step of my academic career, what emotions arise? Do I feel anxious, nervous, excited, or scared? Take a minute to touch base with these emotions.
Do I think about what my peers are experiencing? Do I pay attention to their successes and failures more than I should?
How can I refocus my attention on my own journey? Allow my emotions to fill me with joy and excitement for my personal experiences ahead in this process.
4. Choose one feature of the day and pray from it.
What is one thing that causes me excitement about the college search process?
What is one thing that makes me nervous or fearful about the college search process?
How can I approach these things in a healthy way? Who can I reach out to for support in this journey?
5. Look toward tomorrow.
As I look toward what lies ahead, may I remember that I am not alone in my journey. There are members of my community that support me and many new students who are experiencing similar things. I hope to pause from time to time and reflect upon this journey. May the lessons I learn inspire courage and faith and bring me peace in the decisions I need to make.
