Cervantes was the first to write, "The road is always better than the inn" in his worldwide classic, Don Quixote. The point should be well taken on us all. Success is a direction, not a destination. So many times we communicate to students the need to identify a future career in order to be happy. The job requires a college degree (of course), and many other happiness perks. We need to be careful. We might be missing something. Learning--in and of itself--is a reward. Being able to read and understand a complex text, solve problems, the ability to write powerful thoughts, and the opportunity to speak coherently to others are worthy things in and of themselves that should not be underestimated.
It is essential to help students think and dream what they want to do in the future and help them map out a plan to do accomplish those goals. It is also important to help them appreciate the present and make the most of every minute. Contentment is not found in tomorrow. Successful people know how to appreciate and make the most out of today. Success is not just attaining the goal, it is measured by movement toward the goal.
Pick a worthy direction and keep moving forward. Success will happen, over and over. Learn to recognize and appreciate it when it does. Then you will be happy.
