38: Rebel Advisors James Wightman & Kristen Cruz on Having the Right Conversations, Research and Self-Reflection, and Multiple Right Answers

James Wightman and Kristen Cruz are the co-founders of Rebel Advisorsand the authors of The Rebel Way. They want to show students that college isn’t the only path towards success.

Here are three things you can learn from James and Kristen:

Conversations Can Help You Make Better Decisions

The problem with most students who go to college and don’t finish is, they never stopped to think about what they wanted out of the college experience. They are told by their parents and counselors that college is the path they need to take. They are never given the chance to decide for themselves whether college really is the best path.

That is why conversations with those who want to help you are so important. These conversations can help students identify the paths they can take, find something that makes them comfortable, and build the skills they need for what they are seeking. They can help you find the motivation necessary to find what lights you up inside.

Finding the Right Path Requires Research and Self-Reflection

It can be hard to find what you want to do with your life. The majority of college students change majors at least once and only 27% get their first job in their given major. That is why it is so important to do research and self-reflection before you choose a path.

James begins the process of helping students by doing research. He sees what options align with the skills they have. Then guides them towards something where they can use those skills.

Kristen begins with self-reflection. She has the student figure out what they want first before she can begin to help them. It is only when you know what you want that people can help you get there.

By doing research and self-reflection you can align your skills with what you want to do. These things will give you a better idea of what you should pursue in life.

There Isn’t One Right Answer

One of the main problems with the education system is, we have taught people that there is only one right answer in life. Schools teach for the test instead of the process, and it has stifled our ability to be creative.

This has led to a society of people who are afraid to make mistakes. But mistakes are where you learn the most.

The thing is, you shouldn’t try to fail. Failure in itself isn’t the goal. It’s the lessons that you learn from failure that are the key to success.

One thing to consider is finding something you want to do, even if you fail at it. What thing are you willing to take risks for? What has a strong enough pull that you are willing to let go of fear?

Pursue that thing without fear of consequences and you will no longer look for the single right answer. You will try and try again until you’ve found the path forward.

More shownotes for episode 38 with James Wightman & Kristen Cruz