TEMPTATION

In college, the temptations of drugs, alcohol, sex and toxic relationships are in arm’s reach; it can be hard to say no. College is a time for people to try new things in life and find their limits. The tough part is that you don’t have the guiding forces you once had to tell you what not to do. It takes trial and error, and self control isn’t something that can be learned overnight.

It’s okay to realize that you are maturing and that some people you surround yourself with aren’t fit for you anymore. It’s human nature to want to fall into the group that’s always having fun, but at a certain point, fun turns to distractions and distractions turn to temptation. There are ways to resist temptation.

Surround yourself with people who have positive impacts on your life, seek out friends who have similar goals and remember that positive peer pressure is important. With Michigan State University’s more than 1,000 student organizations, there’s something for everyone.

Finding someone you can talk to to help you out of a tempting situation. Find a friend who tells you it’s okay if you want to stay in on a Saturday night, or that it’s okay if you want to leave a situation in which you feel uncomfortable. Sometimes it takes a good friend to notice that you haven’t been yourself or maybe you haven’t been doing things you’re comfortable with. This can kick you back into reality and take you outside the situation. Ask yourself, “is this something that is going to cause regret?”

Set goals for yourself. Having a sense of purpose can motivate you to resist temptations that may set you off track of achieving these set goals. Set limits: It is more than okay to have fun in college, but it’s important to know your limits. You don’t automatically know your limits, but you will find them and become comfortable with them.

College life is a whirlwind of experiences and temptation is everywhere. Remember, it is okay to make mistakes. College is all about learning, it’s a place to build character and resilience. You know who you are, take pride in the lessons you’ve learned and use them to give advice to others. It’s about learning from your experiences and how you grow from them.

Style: Gracie Sink

Glam: Autumn Decker

Photo: Sophie Fonte, Will Allen

Words: Gracie Sink

Models: Ava Foster

Spread Designer: Julia Clemens