RANDOM Post 2

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 I have a constant dilemma within my mind every day of my life. That dilemma is whether I want to live in the moment or for the future. To put this into perspective, the decisions I am referring to are whether I prioritize family/travel/experiences or school/work. Some might say this would be work versus play. From the advice I have received from TED talk speakers, retired professionals, movies, videos, books, and even total strangers – it seems that all signs point to living in the moment because the future is never guaranteed. However, as a young adult studying in a highly competitive environment, living in a fast-paced city, and being a part of a working-class family – I find it extremely difficult to ignore the responsibilities of daily life and solely focus on the present.


As the eldest daughter in my family near the end of my college career, I have a responsibility to myself and my parents to find a successful career path and work towards paying them back for everything they have done to help me achieve the success I have in life. My dream in life would be to earn enough in the next 5-10 years so that my parents can retire early and I can spoil everyone I love with all the things they never allowed themselves to spend on. Therefore, I dedicate most of my time and make countless sacrifices to earn my degree at USC, aiming to strengthen my resume and prepare for a successful career. Nevertheless, the times I give in to the beauty of living in the moment, remind me of how much more memorable it feels to stop and smell the roses.


The greatest memories I have ever had the privilege to make have all been with my wonderful and loving family and friends. Whether it be traveling across the world or simply gossiping over some cheap, microwaveable ramen at 2 am – there is nothing more valuable to me. I treasure every car ride with Dad, Target run for groceries with Mom, late-night conversation with my sister, game night with my uncles, and nail appointment with Grammy over my academic accomplishments. I fear that I spend too much time focusing on creating a stable future for myself, that life might pass me by, and that I’ll never be able to buy back the memories and time. I would love to hear other people’s experiences with this and how they chose to live their lives or if they have been lucky enough to find a balance. Thanks!

Comments

  1. Justin White WRIT-340April 8, 2024 at 2:22 PM

    Hi Lauryn, I feel like I understand your dilemma. I also think about how I want to live in the moment while also struggling with thinking of the future. I feel like, for me, I'd rather think of the future and keep it in mind. I understand the reasoning behind living in the present, but I feel like doing that can be mostly used as a justification for being unprepared. I feel like the more I think about the future, the better prepared I am and the less surprises I run into. For me, thinking of the future prevents me from running into stressful scenarios later.

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  2. AnonymousApril 8, 2024 at 9:23 PM

    Hey Lauren, I like many others am in the same position as you. Even though I have 2 more years here at USC I am constantly thinking about what I should focus on after graduating. Sometimes I think, hey I've been in school all of my life I deserve a break and think that a gap year to travel before really beginning my corporate world life is needed. But like you at the same time I know that all of this preparation has been so that I can like you help my parents retire, therefore I'm unsure about delaying that. In the end we will know what path is best for us and everything will fall into place.

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  3. Brandon McGowan 340April 11, 2024 at 8:26 PM

    Lauryn!! This is the truth!! I am also a big family person, and I love the spontaneous decisions to just be happy in the moment and not stress about the future. I am constantly worrying about if I am doing enough and have the sense of imposter syndrome. However, I want to say that from meeting you in 340, you are doing everything you need to be and more! Keep going and keep doing amazing things!!!

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  4. BaltejApril 26, 2024 at 11:01 PM

    Lauryn I completely understand your dilemma. My parents have given up so much for me to have what I have and I have not always felt grateful for it. Your writing is a reminder for me to thank them for their sacrifices. I really hope I can make them proud the way you make your parents proud

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