The caps have been tossed. The selfies have been taken. Mom, Dad, Grandma, Grandpa shed more than a few tears. And, Aunt Maggie has told you at least four times that it seems like yesterday when you were playing tee ball and playing with the dirt the whole time. 

Proud families and friends have filled the stadiums and gymnasiums auditorium with applause and relief. 

Graduation season is often painted as the finish line, as the triumphant ending to years of exams, deadlines and uncertainty. But for this year’s graduates, I hate to say this, the diploma is not the destination. It is the starting point. That is why I always congratulate each graduating class and wish them success and happiness on the next chapter of their lives. It is the starting point of the next chapter.

The next steps in the next chapter after graduation matter more than many students realize, not because every decision must be perfect, but because the habits formed in the first few years of adulthood often shape long-term success and happiness.

At this time, I reflect upon one of my first college professors, Dr. Wilhoit, who told us that one of the most important steps graduates can take is learning how to adapt. He was so profound. In the Fall of 1981, we had no idea of the extent that the modern workplace would change and how it could evolve so quickly. Industries evolve and jobs that exist today may look completely different in five years. 

I recently saw a quote that is so applicable, “A degree opens doors, but adaptability keeps them open.” Because of this, learning will be a lifelong responsibility, not something that ended with final exams this May. 

Another item that I emphasize when talking with students is the critical next step of building meaningful relationships. It’s easy for graduates to focus entirely on resumes and applications, but careers are often shaped by the people we know or meet in school or our jobs. 

And, relationships or networking does not have to mean awkward business events or collecting LinkedIn connections. It can simply mean maintaining contact with professors, classmates, internship supervisors and community leaders. Strong relationships create opportunities, guidance and support during difficult moments.

Four decades later, I vividly remember the people who helped me along my career path. Russ Robinson, Scott Spencer, Tim Frye, Bill Easley, Doug Warbinton and Ted Jenkins are just a few of those who believed in me and took a chance on me when I was just floundering around and trying to find my way. They remained friends and valued mentors. 

Another important aspect for any graduate is the willingness for graduates and their families to accept uncertainty. Graduates often feel pressure to have every detail figured out immediately: the ideal career, the perfect city, the right relationship, the five-year plan. 

In reality, very few people move through adulthood in a straight line. Career changes are common. Mistakes are inevitable. Setbacks happen. 

For example, I started at Drury University in 1981 as a music major. I then transferred to Missouri State University and eventually decided upon a major of finance and banking. The road for me then went to the University of Arkansas Law School and then I found my way back to the world of banking, which has been my vocation for the past 40 years. I’m very fortunate that my incredible parents, Bill and Adella Horner, were incredibly supportive and understanding as I found my way in life.

Finally, graduates should remember that comparison is one of the fastest ways to lose perspective. Or, as I’ve always told my kids, “Comparison is the death of happiness.” 

Social media creates the illusion that everyone else is advancing faster, earning more or living more exciting lives. Please don’t get caught up in this comparison trap. 

Adulthood is not a race with identical starting points or timelines. As I tell students so many times, the important point is to be yourself and be proud of each step of your journey. 

Graduation is not the moment life becomes easier or clearer. It is the moment that responsibility and opportunity begin to coexist. Yes, that’s a scary thought. But, it will also include moments that will be wonderful and a few that will take your breath away. 

The next chapter will include ambition, uncertainty, mistakes and growth. That is not failure. That is simply adulthood and life. 

It is common for older generations to question whether young people are ready for the future. But, after being around some of the members of the Class of 2026, I truly believe that today’s students possess the intelligence, adaptability and skills needed for a rapidly changing world. 

Young people have always been told they are unprepared until they become the generation that leads. I’m betting on you and wish you all the best in this next chapter.

I vividly remember my high school graduation, just over 45 years ago today. The gym, which didn’t have air conditioning, was stifling. In spite of the circumstances, I still look back upon it as one of the most enjoyable moments of my life. 

My friends and I describe the hot gym experience as a one of our many character-building experiences. Four days later, I nearly died when I was a passenger in a horrific car accident. Thanks to God’s grace and the amazing God given abilities of the late Dr. Andres Apostol, I survived. Because of this, every day since then,16,440 for those of us who are counting, has been a gift and a blessing. 

I definitely have a reason to look forward to every approaching day. And, similarly I encourage each graduate to approach each day ahead of you as a gift and a blessing. 

Congratulations to the Class of 2026.

Jon Horner is a local community bank president, published author, newspaper columnist, motivational speaker, and mayor of America’s Real Hometown. He can be reached at [email protected].