In Conclusion, Don't Worry About It

Advice for graduates and reflections on staying true to yourself from the beloved Gilmore Girls actress and New York Times best-selling author of the memoir Talking as Fast as I Can and the novel Someday, Someday, Maybe.

"If you're not where you want to be on this day - don't worry about it. Because the spotlight aspect of life? That's not the satisfying part."

In this expansion of her 2017 commencement speech at her hometown Langley High, Lauren Graham reflects in her hilarious, relatable voice on growing up, pursuing your dreams, and living in the here and now. "Whatever path you choose, whatever career you decide to go after, the important thing," she writes, "is that you keep finding joy in what you're doing, especially when the joy isn't finding you."

She reminds us to be curious and compassionate, no matter where life takes you. "Whether you hope to be an actor or a politician or a mathematician, I've learned that empathy and kindness are your most valuable tools." Grounded and inspiring, this is Graham's road map to a happy life: "Be a fan, not a theater critic."