Good luck grads

The Whitefish Pilot congratulates the graduating Class of 2005 and wishes them success in their careers.

It's tradition to pass on advice to young people about what choices they make and how they plan for the future. And while it's not clear just whether they're listening or not, here goes.

Flexibility in planning is probably more important now than it was in past decades. Employment statistics show people changing jobs — and even careers - two, three or more times in their lives.

Some jobs will likely never go away. Doctors, lawyers, bankers, carpenters and police officers will be with us for years to come, but the nature of those jobs will certainly be different.

Rapidly changing technology and increasing competition is what's driving all this. Keeping abreast of new opportunities and their requirements is important.

Don't think you're done with school just because you graduated from high school. You'll be "in school" for the rest of your lives.

With that said, it's also important to have fun and enjoy life. A good attitude about life is as important as a good education, and being able to relax and enjoy life will help you cope with what otherwise could be difficult stress.

Enjoy life, however, in moderation. Don't try to substitute fun for work. Otherwise, the next thing you know, you'll be in your 30s worried sick you've fallen behind everyone.

But if that happens, don't fret — all you have to do is pick yourself up and get going again with a new career, just like everyone else.