Don't Worry, Be Happy by RyLee

Don't Worry, Be Happy by RyLee - November 2014 Scholarship Essay

I wish that someone would have told me “Just do what makes you happy” when I was starting my freshman year of high school. High school can be extremely confusing and difficult, and usually introduces many conflicting loyalties. There are so many different groups that you will want to please- teachers, parents, friends- but in the end what’s most important is that you do what will be best for you in the end. It might be difficult to stay on the path that leads to your best interests, because everyone seems to think that they know what will benefit you, but trusting your own instincts will get you the farthest in life.

I have found that doing what makes you happy will also lead to you doing what’s right. If you only do what makes you happy, you won’t get into trouble because those things won’t make you happy, they’ll make you feel guilty. And if you do what makes you happy, you’ll do things that will work out for you in the end. Join that club that you’re interested in, and don’t worry about what your friends think or if no one else wants to join. Tryout for that sport that you want to play, and don’t worry about what people will think if you fail. Listen to that song, write that poem, star int ht play. Don't stress out about a test you already took, the results can't be changed. Don't be worried about the drama that your friends decide to start, it won't matter in a week or two. Don't go mad worrying about how many AP classes to take, or what clubs to join, or what will make you look best to future colleges. Do what makes you happy and you will succeed. Do what makes others happy, and you will always regret not following your heart.

Doing what makes you happy is also a good lesson for the rest of your life. Entering into my senior year, I have found that it’s more important than ever to strive for happiness in all aspects of my life. Picking the college, the major, the career that will make others happy will not benefit me or my life in the long run. Following my own instincts will, and it will benefit you as well.