Why Taking a Gap Year Could Be the Best Decision You Make After Matric
The pressures of life
Life’s pressures
As your matric year concludes, life gets more complicated. Standing in a group listening to everyone’s plans for after school can make you nervous. It seems like everyone has it figured out except for you.
It’s your turn to give your elevator pitch, but you know it’s not exactly what you want to do. This often happens in the final years of school.
Friends, teachers, family, and everyone else keep asking, “What are your plans after matric?”
You might be unsure about what to do with your life. Perhaps you’re struggling to see what you’ll be good at or enjoy. Maybe you have too many interests, or it feels like your options are limited.
You’re not alone in feeling this way. Many matriculants experience similar challenges and emotions during this pivotal time.
Family and friends can add pressure. Some families insist on you getting a degree, while others might prioritize getting a job straight after school. How do you decide what’s best for you?
The truth is, you don’t know.
In your late teens, you’ll change a lot. When you finish matric, you’re thrust into the adult world like a fish out of water. You must find your feet in this unknown world with unpredictable challenges.
Many matriculants feel pressured to have their whole future planned out, but it’s perfectly normal to change your mind about your course or career path.
Explore in your late teens and 20s.
This is a period of exploration, where you can consider different career paths. As time passes we become increasingly tied down with bills, house plants, pets, a partner, and more.
Our window for taking chances and exploring new options is wide open. Unlike later in life, when increased responsibilities might limit your ability to switch careers, start a business, or take financial risks, you now have the freedom to experiment and find your path.
While you’re young and have fewer obligations, is a great time to explore.
Stay motivated.
Keep pushing forward. Choose a direction and don’t just sit back. Grab every opportunity and make the most of it. This will help you build momentum.
Exploring these less-traveled paths might just lead you to a career you never expected.
Don’t just sit around waiting for things to happen; you won’t find opportunities on your parents’ couch. Get out there and seize every chance you get.
Taking a Gap Year can broaden your perspectives and open up new opportunities. If you have the chance to take one, go for it!
Every action leads to a result, but no action leads to no result.
Taking time for yourself
Truth be told, no one truly knows what they’re doing. Some might just fake confidence better than others. We’re all on our own journey to discovering our path in life.
Taking a gap year can be immensely rewarding. The Skills Gap Year facilitates your development through personal growth, courses, exposure to different work fields, travel, and experiences. Join us in Gordon’s Bay, Cape Town for an exceptional experience!
Investing in yourself now benefits your future.
Article by
Madelein Wolfaardt
