As a freshman in college, I have it easy, right?

I am required to take all of the basic university classes that I will more than likely do well in, so long as I put forth the effort to show up.

There is a fair amount of work involved but a lot more free time too. So what is there to worry about? For many students, it is not their present circumstances that haunt them day-in-and-day-out but their irrational, ever-persisting fear of the future. Yes, the future – that uncertain, mystical place that is continuously being affected by our decisions. We have all labored over this indefinite, inexistant place on occasion.

But I am going to let you all in on a little secret here and now: you control the future. Often times, we let the inverse be true – our preconceived notion of “the future” controls us. This is when we opt to do things like take the easy way out or settle for something that is below our capability.

But if we can overcome our fear, there is no limitation to what we can do. This concept of “no limitation” should be examined within reason, of course – determined by the balance of personal interest and skill. And once we have set realistic yet assertive goals, our life’s aspirations and potential will align.

For some, though, this whole spiel of overcoming fear has not become relevant on such a large scale. Many college students biggest concern is not what they will be doing ten years from now, but what classes they will be taking a semester from now. Wasted classes means wasted money, so what do you do? My best suggestion would be to take classes that appeal to you. I see it as an indirect way of pinpointing your major and career path.

Despite your personal situation, it is completely normal to run into internal conflict over what you want to do with your life, so try not to fret about it too much.

Various studies have shown that 50-70 percent of all college students change majors at least once. And out of those students, most change their major three times prior to graduation. So do not worry too much about what the future has in store for you – focus more on what you have in store for the future. Utilize your skills and take risks – this is how to succeed.