As we enter another season where a fresh crop of school pass-outs take their first steps into the wondrous world of higher education, their backpacks carry excitement and trepidation in equal measure. Their eyes shine with the prospects of finally making their own decisions and exploring the ‘real world’—where they can shed their boring uniforms, step outside of their fixed school routine, and often live independently if away from home.

You couldn’t wait to be independent—until you are!

Decision fatigue is a real thing. Add to that the accountability for your own decisions—and now we’re talking! Here is a ready reckoner of simple, sustainable advice rooted in principles of psychology and wellbeing to make this new journey a smoother one.

In a world full of labubus, please continue to exercise your social muscle. Make the effort to engage in real, meaningful connections while nurturing the old. Social media friends and chatbots cannot substitute the warmth of shared laughter, life lessons from seniors at the college canteen, and bonding over shared tastes in music and movies. As you will find, the friendships you forged at school and in your neighbourhood as children are deep and authentic. As you meander through new roads, classes and mess food, there’s comfort in connecting with old buddies. These relationships also offer an excellent cushion in the face of the........

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