4 Lessons from Maria Taylor’s 2021 UGA Undergraduate Commencement Speech

Every year, the University of Georgia brings in an accomplished alum to inspire the next generation of leaders. The Spring 2021 Undergraduate Commencement Keynote Speaker was none other than ESPN’s Maria Taylor.

During this year’s graduation commencement speech, Maria Taylor took students on a journey through her early college decisions, career challenges and major life wins. She talks about being a serial major changer, networking her way to the “big leagues,” and her first major career fail. Through it all, she shared that she’s put together a set of guidelines to help her on her career and life journey. Her guiding principles all boil down to four main points.

Maria Taylor’s Four Life Principles

1 | Speak Your Truth.

Maria’s Quote: “Being true to yourself and speaking your truth is the greatest gift that you can give this universe”

Breakroom Buddha’s Takeaway: Tell the truth about what you want to do, and who you want to be. Deep down you know what you like to do, and what you’re meant to be doing. You’ll often see the signs and be nudged in that direction as well. You just have to pay attention.

2 | Live in Your Purpose.

Maria’s Quote: “If you’re living in your purpose, the opportunities will come. The doors will definitely open. People will speak on your behalf.”

Breakroom Buddha’s Takeaway: Always work hard and always give it your all, even if you don’t think it’s what you’re meant to be doing. You never know who’s watching or where your next opportunity will come from.

3 | Walk in Grace.

Maria’s Quote: “Live by the standard of grace instead of perfection.”

Breakroom Buddha’s Takeaway: Remember that one mistake you made that one time? Yea, no one cares. Be kind to yourself and others, because we all make mistakes.

4 | Inspire With Your Legacy.

Maria’s Quote: “I can’t guarantee you that you will be able to see the bloom of your seed in the next generation, but I can absolutely promise you that your legacy will live on forever.”

Breakroom Buddha’s Takeaway: Remember you’re in it for the long haul. Don’t just think about what you accomplish. You have to also think about who you are inspiring, encouraging, and growing while on your journey.

Watch Maria Taylor’s Full Commencement Speech

Spring 2021 Undergraduate Commencement Keynote Speaker: ESPN’s Maria Taylor

A Final Note to the 2021 Graduates

Congratulations to all of the 2021 graduates! I hope Maria’s words and the Breakroom Buddha Takeaways have inspired you to think about your own journey. It’ll be a little scary at first, but keep going and never stop, even if it gets hard. Great things are coming your way!!

Next Steps: You Made It!

1) Breath & Take a Vacation. (Here’s a 1 wk packing list)

2) Do a Little #SelfCare

3) THEN: Find a Full-Time Job [Long Term Commitment]

4) OR: Test the Waters, Do a Few Side Projects [Short Term Commitment]