Grieve when bad things happen... but don't be surprised. No one said life was easy or perfect. It's a messy flawed world full of messy flawed people. There is going to be grief. Don't let it throw you off or make you question your faith; that's when you need it! (John 16:33)
Pursue your dreams... but hold them loosely to heaven with outstretched arms. Remember you are here to serve, and God has great plans for you. So, go in the direction you feel called, but remember to check in with Jesus and make sure you are still on the straight and narrow (Jeremiah 29:11-14).
Don't follow your heart... follow God's heart instead. The world says you can trust your heart and the ever-changing emotions that flow from it. The truth is our hearts are sinful, with flawed motives and selfishness (Jeremiah 17:9). Trust instead in God's perfect love, and your decisions will be shaped by Him (Romans 12:2).
Pursue greatness in all you do... but don't think you are too lofty to perform humble tasks. You aren't too talented/smart/rich/well-dressed to work a dead-end job if need be, or scrub some toilets. (James 4:10).
Look to ideals for inspiration... but don't make the mistake of idolizing them. You'd like to dress more like that cute girl who is so well-dressed, or you'd love your life to be as romantic as a Jane Austin book. These are ok ideals, but if they become your world, you'll be discontent with what you have now. (1 Cor. 6:2)
Chase after goals... but know they won't come quickly or without sacrifice. This isn't an 80's movie montage. Your life's ambitions aren't going to come the year after you graduate. But that's okay; they wouldn't be worthy goals if you could accomplish them quickly. (Proverbs 21:5)
Look forward expectantly to the future... but don't miss out on today. You dream of affording a nicer car, a cool apartment, a better job, getting married, having a baby, etc. All that is good, but enjoy the season you are in today. Each season in life is precious. (Psalm 118:24)
