Author: thepostgraduate

Life

5 Conversation Starters for Making Friends After College

thepostgraduate

For those of us who have a longtime circle of friends or struggle with social anxiety, meeting new people can be nerve-racking. What do we say and what impression will they get? 

The most important thing is to remember that you are both human, both imperfect and both just trying – no need to be afraid. After getting over this fear, here are a few interesting questions you can ask to get the conversation going!

1. Tell Me About Yourself.

Whether we like to admit it or not, it’s scientifically proven that we all love talking about ourselves. Believe or not, everyone’s story is pretty interesting. You’re the only one who has ever lived the life you live and people want to hear about it.

2. What’s Your Favorite Social Media Platform?

Are you more of a Facebook gal or the Twitter guy? Over 3.6 billion people have some form of social media and most of us have lots of opinions about it. This is a great opportunity to learn about people’s likes and dislikes and can give clues on what other things may interest this person.

3. Stream Anything Good Lately?

You know that series everyone’s talking about? Yeah, that one – talk about that. What we watch sticks with us, and in a way, we become experts on it. Give ideas, opinions and other similar suggestions.

4. What Are Some of Your Favorite Hobbies?

Bring out feelings of joy by discussing what people like to do. You’ll be surprised by how they light up. Talking about hobbies is always fun and can create an avenue for deepening the relationship through quality time engaging in that hobby together.

5. How Are You Enjoying the Weather?

It’s pretty standard, but it works. People’s reaction to the weather can give insight on their life context and upbringing. Why do you love the cold? Have you always enjoyed Autumn?

Making friends after college can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Use these conversations starters and research more if needed. Let us know how it goes!

Kindly,

Post Graduate

P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Travel

5 Scenic Airbnb Cabins You’ll Want to Rent this Fall 2021 for Peace & Purpose

thepostgraduate

Fall cabin getaways are so peaceful and cozy! It’s just you (and your travel buddies), beautiful autumn trees, streams, lakes, and mountains.

No stress and no formal schedule – the quiet hum of nature gives your thoughts and dreams the courage to come out, and before you know it, you’re re-inspired.

Sometimes the most taxing part is securing the cabin itself. After that, it’s all smooth autumn sailing. Get a head start on your trip with these cabin destination ideas.

1. Smoky Mountains (Tennessee): New Modern Mountain Views Cabin

Get spectacular views of the United States’ most popular national park, the Great Smoky Mountains, with this cozy new cabin made for up to eight guests. Gather outside or indoors to watch over 100 species of trees transition to their warm, autumn colors.

Price: $243/night 

Guests: 8

Bedrooms: 3

Beds: 4

2. Blue Ridge Mountains (North Carolina): Luxury Blue Ridge Cabin

Get away from the fuss of the city with a trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Visitors can take a hike along one of its many trails, go pick apples at the Apple Hill Orchard & Cider Mill or engage in other relaxing activities with friends or family. 

Price: $225/night

Guests: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Beds: 4

3. Catskills Mountains Area (New York): A Black A- Frame Sustainable Catskills Cabin

Rent your very own A-Frame on a private road in the Catskills Forest. Enjoy this renovated 1960s cabin and its original wood ceilings during a quiet weekend with friends and be sure to use its accommodating outdoor amenities.

Price: $296/night

Guests: 4

Bedrooms: 2

Beds: 2

4. Rocky Mountains (Colorado): 1914 Cabin Bordering Forest, Fishing & Views

Travel through time with this vintage cabin with Rocky Mountain views. Sing songs by the fire or grill in the backyard while planning your next hike. Be on the lookout for elk, bears and other wildlife if you’re an animal lover!

Price: $259/night

Guests: 4

Bedrooms: 1

Beds: 3

5. The Ozark Mountains (Arkansas): Modern A Frame Cabin of The Ozarks

Take some time off in an architectural wonder. This six-bedroom modern cabin has eight balconies and overlooks the seasonal White River. Equipped with three hammocks, a grill and an umbrella, this cabin will give you an experience you’ll never forget.

Price: $231/night

Guests: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Beds: 5

Getting away is one of the best ways to regain clarity about life and purpose. Have any other cabin suggestions? Let us know in the comments.

Purposefully,

Post Graduate

Career

The 5 Best LinkedIn Post Ideas for Recent Graduates in 2021

thepostgraduate

When used correctly, LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for career advancement and networking. Think about it. Access to millions of normally hard-to-reach industry professionals is right at your fingertips.

It’s a completely free opportunity to make a good impression, hear from the experts and add meaningful connections to your professional community. LinkedIn is great, especially for those just starting out.

The only question now is, “What should I post?” You don’t have to wait until you get another new job or have another major career change before you start communicating. Here are five types of purposeful posts you can start creating right now!

Download our free infographic to begin building your post graduation personal brand on LinkedIn today.

Download Now
Download Now

Professionally,

Post Graduate

Life

3 Personal Fears to Overcome in Your 20s: How to Be Courageous

thepostgraduate

Remember that thing you used to be afraid of when you were little? The unidentified noise under your bed, the 9-year-old bully in the cafeteria, the neighbor’s dog that was just a little too intimidating?

They’re all laughable now and it’s hard to understand your reasoning behind why you were so afraid in the first place. The older we get, the longer this list gets.

All types of unreasonable fears, even some we forgot about, are now behind us. There’s probably something you’re afraid of right now – and in ten years – it will seem foolish, simple even.

Fear is normal, but we don’t have to let it rule over us. Here is a short list of irrational fears that try to push us around as (young) adults.

1. Other’s Negative Opinions

When I was a child, I used to think that at a certain age, everyone would just grow up, that immaturity by some act of nature just left our bodies, and that drama could only exist in “childish” spaces. 

I was wrong. Some people get a kick out of judging, bullying and inappropriately criticizing others well into their adult years. It’s an unfulfilling attempt to heal a hurting wound in many cases, whether they realize it or not.

Negative opinions will always be out there. The way to overcome them is through a healthy understanding and solid memory of self. Some negative opinions are completely bogus, while others may hold some truth.

Perhaps there is something you struggle with or used to struggle with. What’s important is who you are today and the direction you’re headed in now.

2. Failure

Usually fear of failure is linked to meeting others’ expectations. You’re afraid of messing up a legacy or a reputation that you worked hard to build. You don’t want to be looked at as less than you have in the pass, and you don’t want people to see you mess up.

Is what people think more important than the vision that has been pulling on you heart strings and the impact it will make? The people who really care about you won’t see you any different anyway. The cliche is true, “if you fail, at least you tried.”

3. Greatness

Actually accomplishing your goal is one of the least popular and lesser talked about fears. Sometimes we know we can do it and do it amazingly, and that scares the heck out of us.

Our talents may get us into rooms that make us uncomfortable and around people who are considered VIPs. It can be intimidating, but remember you’re there because it’s where your talents naturally took you. 

You belong and you have something that someone needs.

We hope you’re pumped up and ready to laugh at whatever is trying to make you afraid in your twenties. Don’t wait until the future to look back and laugh. Laugh now!

With Courage,

Post Graduate

Life

5 Reasons You’re Not Enjoying Life After College or Your Twenties

thepostgraduate

After the applause dies down and the crowd disperses, what’s left? Life after college, your first few years of true adulthood, there’s more responsibility, yet more freedom, and more time to do what you actually love.

But why does it feel like this? Your early twenties sound like the ideal scenario, but they can present a unique array of challenges. The truth is, there will always be something, even when you’re in complete control, but if you’re waiting for everything to go well before you start enjoying life, then you’ll never enjoy life.

Feel your feelings, of course! But enjoy your blessings as well. Here are a few reasons why your twenties may not be enjoyable. 

1. A Lack of Patience

Sometimes we’re so focused on getting that thing we’ve always dreamed of that we forget to enjoy the journey. It’s possible to be so wrapped up in accomplishing goals that we forget about everything else. Do you have goals or do your goals have you? Besides, we’re much more successful when were holistically happy. 

2. Ungratefulness

Take inventory of all the good things in your life, even if they seem small and insignificant. There are instances where life is not enjoyable because we simply choose not to enjoy it, but usually we don’t know we’re making this horrible decision. Don’t be that person who doesn’t realize how good that have it until it’s gone. While striving for greater, be grateful for what you have.

3. Living for Others

Could the reason why you’re not enjoying your life be that you’re attempting to live someone else’s? It’s easier than you think to live a life that someone else created for you, especially if you love them. Their wants may have automatically become yours without you even noticing it. Living to meet other’s desires can also happen on a societal level. Making decisions to be who the world says people who look like you, who come from where you come from, should be can dim the soul.

4. Befriending the Wrong People

Our friends shape our experience of the world. You can go down the exact same path as someone else, but have a completely different experience because of who you went with. Examine those closest to you and your relationships with them. What do they look like? How do they make you feel?

5. Disregard for Mental and Emotional Health

Mental and emotional problems don’t just go away. In fact, if you ignore them, they can get worse. Although you may feel resilient, mental health challenges can affect us in ways we do not realize. Prioritize your mind and your feelings so that you can be the best version of you. You owe it to yourself.

It’s okay not to feel okay about your twenties. Life is full of highs and lows, but don’t forget to celebrate the good times. Have any other suggestions? Share them with the Post Graduate Gang in the comments or on our socials. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Count Your Blessings,

Post Graduate

Life

Just Because Gifts for Mom

thepostgraduate

This post contains affiliate links that help us stay in operation.

Mother’s Day is less than a week away, but there is still time! Send your mom or mother figure a thoughtful digital gift that you can get right away and she can begin using immediately. Here are a few functional and lasting digital presents that you can grab right off Amazon!

Amazon Prime Membership

Let your Mom in on the secret to getting Amazon packages more quickly for less! You can give the gift of Amazon Prime and everything that comes with it, like free one- and two-day shipping and Ultrafast Grocery delivery. With the gift of Prime, you Mom will also have full access to Prime Video featuring thousands of popular TV shows and movies, plus Amazon Music Unlimited which contains over 70 million songs and millions of podcast episodes.

Kindle Unlimited Membership Plan

Is your Mom constantly downloading eBooks? Consider getting her a Kindle Unlimited Membership Plan. Unlimited Plans come in 6, 12 and 24 month increments and give members access to over one million eBooks and audiobooks. 

Personal Shopper by Prime Wardrobe

Get your Mom ready for reopening with her very own personal stylist! Personal Shopper by Prime Wardrobe allows customers to choose from selections they like, submit their choices and then get personalized suggestions from fashion professionals. Your mom can try on the clothes she is recommended and only has to purchase what she likes! The rest, she can send back.

Your mom deserves to feel special this Mother’s Day and every day! Have any additional ideas? Let us know in the comments. 

Wishing Your Mom A Wonderful Mother’s Day!

Post Graduate

Faith

Practical Ways to Spread Love and Share Faith on Social Media | Free Downloads

thepostgraduate

Everyone could use a little more love and faith these days. People of faith are charged with sharing the Good News with others, but how can that be done in the age of fast-moving social media?

Keep it simple. Here are a few graphics you can share through your Instagram account that provide encouragement and offer hope through faith.

Get your free Faith-filled Download here and begin spreading love socially!

Blessings,

Post Graduate

Life

2021 Graduation Gift Ideas

thepostgraduate

This post contains affiliate links that help us stay in operation.

After years of late night study sessions, emotional breakdowns, trying to find forever friends, and figuring out what it means to be an adult, your loved one is finally graduating!

Graduation season is a joyous time for many. Feelings of pride and accomplishment are shared between graduates and their loved ones, and the energy is unmatched. 

Looking for a gift to fit the celebratory mood? Here are a few ideas.

Celebration Tumbler

Glasses and mugs are classic keepsakes. They can be functional or kept on display in a special location. Your loved one will always remember you by it.

Message Jewelry

Simple yet elegant, message jewelry is a wearable reminder of how proud you are. It does not have to be expensive as long as it is symbolic.

Vintage Music Box

For those who enjoy sentimental, old-school trinkets, a music box is the perfect gift. Handmade and engraved with kind words of congratulation, when wound up, this box plays the melody to “You Are My Sunshine.”

2021 Makeup Bag

Nothing says, “I love you,” to a makeup lover like new supplies. Ingrained with an inspirational message, this trendy keepsake will be with your loved one for many early mornings and just before many other special occasions.

Amazon Gift Card

Not sure what to get? Give the gift of retail liberty. A gift card is a perfect gift for the loved one that’s hard to shop for. You can get a graduation cap themed physical gift box, a print-at-home version or a gift card that comes inside a graduation card.

Fresh Flowers

Flowers are a happy gift for a happy day! Add to the beauty of the moment with a gorgeous arrangement. Pick your loved ones favorite colors or their school colors.

Decorative Graduation Dish

Is your graduate moving into a new place? Get them a dinning keepsake that they can hold onto forever. Personalized plates have the first initial of the graduate’s name, plus an inspirational message.

Personalized Glass Jewelry Box

A personally engraved jewelry box is great for graduates who enjoy quality pieces. Get them something to store their precious metals and fine jewelry in that simultaneously commemorates their special day.

High Fashion Wristlet 

Does your loved one have a favorite designer brand? Find a piece that they don’t have to add to their collection. 

Smart Watch

Gen Z has officially started graduating from college (queue TikTok dance). Get them a device that’s both technologically advanced and a rite of passage.

Journal

A journal is a great tool for planning the future, releasing complex emotions or just keeping up with daily tasks. Gifting your loved one a journal shows that you support their personhood and their dreams.

Congratulations to you and your loved one! Download one of our free “Congrats Graduate” backgrounds if you’re having a virtual gathering and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

With Graduation Season Joy!

Post Graduate

Life

5 Signs You’re Starting to Settle in Your 20s | Quarter-Life Crisis

thepostgraduate

The 30-something jokes become a little less funny after you reach 25. Getting older is now a reality and not just a something you post about to get a few laughs and retweets. When your birthday comes around, you contemplate whether you want to include your age in your Facebook birthday post.

Of course you’re still what many consider “young” but the reality that you soon will not be becomes more potent. Not everyone feels this way, but when they do, they probably won’t tell you.

Let’s break that taboo today! You still have so much life to live, and even when you’re “old” you can still experience everyday fully. You are awesome, powerful and still have so much to offer the world.

Here are five signs you’re subconsciously starting to settle in your 20s.

1. You’re Starting to Feel Too Old.

Have you caught yourself saying, “I’m too old for that,” lately? Jokes about getting older will never go out of style, but sometimes we find ourselves saying this a little too seriously. This can especially be true if you’ve had to take on traditional adult responsibilities earlier than usual. You are older, but you’re not too old. You still have great ideas, gifts and talents to offer, and now you can execute them with even more wisdom.

2. You’re Indifferent About Your Dreams.

I hope you haven’t given up already! It’s not too late. Try again! So many of the world’s greatest had late starts. What if they thought there was an age limit to what they had always dreamed and imagined? We would lack so many of the things we now enjoy!

3. You Don’t Care As Much About Excellence.

Every detail used to matter, but now, it’s whatever. After a certain age, we begin to realize just how hard life can be, and sometimes it makes us question, “why does it even matter?” So many have built in privilege or what seems like a never-ending winning streak, but it’s true, you reap what you sow, maybe not as fast as others, but eventually, your vision will come to fruition.

4. You Don’t Care About Presentation.

Appearance it NOT everything! It’s what’s inside that really matters. You don’t need to fixate on your looks, especially not to please others, but having zero concern about your presentation could be a sign that you place less value on you. 

5. You Never Try New Things.

It’s possible to become set in your ways in your 20s, especially if, for the most part, everything is good. Why not aim for great? Try a new menu item, take a different path on your daily run, visit another state or take up a new hobby. New things give us fresh inspiration and keep us hungry for greatness.

How do you avoid settling in your 20s? Share your ideas with the Post Graduate Community! Try making something new. Take baby steps!

With Hope and Expectation,

Post Graduate 

Travel

Spring Picnic Essentials| Blankets, Baskets and Beyond!

thepostgraduate

Want to plan the perfect picnic this Spring? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a checklist of everything you’ll need, plus a few items that will add a little extra pizzazz!

Picnic Blanket

Make sure your picnic has a strong foundation. Get a blanket big enough for you, your guests and your food. Pick something that provides a comfortable layer between you and the ground and can withstand any spills or stains. 

Picnic Basket

Don’t forget the food! Picnic baskets aren’t just for aesthetics, though they make for a stylish, Spring backdrop. The compact carrying cases eliminate the need for multiple trips to the car and can help save space on the blanket during your event. Choose a basket that meets your needs and suits your aesthetic.

Plates

Keep your picnic clean and carefree with a sturdy set of plates. They can be temporary and recyclable or you can use this as an excuse to buy classy china. It’s up to you!

Utensils 

Unless you’re serving only finger foods, you’ll want to make sure you bring a nice pack of utensils. You may not need knives, but you’ll probably want at least forks and spoons. 

Pitcher

Instead of weighing down your picnic basket with multiple, individualized drinks, make something tasty and pour it into a pitcher. It’s both photogenic and convenient. 

Glasses

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time for a toast! Bring glasses, tumblers, mugs or whatever makes the most sense for your gathering. 

Serving Dishes and Utensils

Food can be kept in the packaging it came in or it can be placed in bowls and on platters. These can match your backdrop or, if you’re keeping it casual, they don’t have to. Use what you have at home, or get something that can be used for your next outdoor gathering. The same goes for serving utensils.

Flowers

Finish it all off with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Place them in the center of your blanket and arrange your food and drinks around them.

Decorations

For the creative at heart, this is your time to shine! Bring photos, fairy lights, or statement pieces to bring everything together. Get some good pictures and impress your guests!

Take a picture and tag us in your Spring picnic photos. You’ve got this!

Always Happy to Help,

Post Graduate