Declare Your Independence

Dig in the recesses of your brain. Remember that kid with the glasses in the third grade? The one who created a white wig out of spray-painted Brillo pads and pretended he was Thomas Jefferson? While applying a chicken scratch signature to a wannabe parchment photocopy of the Declaration of Independence, he proclaimed the birthday of our nation and said our country’s citizens were entitled to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” The kid was a complete nerd, this is true. But you have to admit that, even then, you thought the story he told was pretty cool.

While your personal journey toward independence might not be officially stated in ink or commemorated with parades and fireworks, it is nonetheless an important time in your life. The goals you create for yourself are likely still rooted in our forefathers’ ideals. Let’s examine a few ways you can achieve them using benefits that may be at your fingertips!

Life. Unquestionably, one of the keys to a long and full life is good health. Understanding how health care operates in our country, and how you can best manage your personal health within the system, is essential today. It is probable you were booted off your parents’ health insurance plan after graduation. Now is the time to secure your own. Talk to the benefits administrator at your place of employment or graduate school to learn what coverage is available to you. Then choose a doctor whom you trust, and visit him/her regularly. Make your health a top priority and you will reap the rewards of all life has to offer.

Liberty. We are afforded so many liberties in our great democracy. Among them are the freedoms to learn and to capitalize on the skills and knowledge we acquire. We’re foolish if we don’t take advantage of these opportunities to create a fruitful life for ourselves! Whether in the workplace or while attending another institute of higher learning, use your resources. Does your company provide tuition reimbursement? Does your school facilitate service opportunities or professional development seminars? Are there occasions for travel? Chances to meet people of different backgrounds, cultures, and ideologies? Though it may seem so at times, life didn’t end when you graduated. In fact, this is only the beginning! Assert your independence and enjoy it.

The Pursuit of Happiness. I heard someone once comically remark that we aren’t promised happiness in the Declaration of Independence, but rather only the pursuit of it. It makes perfect sense. Happiness means different things to different people. Many find happiness in the moment, using vacation time to spend with friends and family. Others discover happiness in achieving long-term goals, building the security necessary to sustain dreams well into the future. What brings you happiness? Figure it out and go after it, however you see best fit.

You have a statement to make, a declaration of independence. You have the power to draft your life course, amend when necessary and evolve into a masterpiece. Just add your signature style.