Life is messy, and there’s no secret that it’s tough to figure out what to do with our time here. The pressure to have a great career, a family, hobbies, and to travel, etc., starts the moment we enter school. At any age, it’s very normal to feel unsure about what path to follow. So, what do you do when feeling lost in life?
Be Blunt
The first thing you’ll have to do is have an honest conversation with yourself. Eliminate distractions, embrace the tough feelings and dig deep into why you’re feeling this way. What aspects of your life are you not enjoying? Listen to the intense emotions. If you feel dread on your way to work, maybe it’s not the right path for you. If you feel joy when writing, perhaps that’s something you should incorporate into your life more.
Ignore the Obstacles – Where Would You Be if You Could?
Many people squash their dreams because they feel they are unattainable. They don’t pursue the path they want because it might disappoint their loved ones, it costs too much, takes too much time, is too difficult, etc. Take these factors away. If there was nothing in your life that was holding you back, what would you be doing? What did you always think would be fun to try? Once you know the answers to these questions, you can start taking baby steps towards them. If applying to school is daunting, start by researching just one degree you would enjoy pursuing. The next day, review the requirements, and the day after, submit the application. Little steps make you feel accomplished without being overwhelmed.
Don’t be Scared of Being Scared
Change is always daunting. A little bit of fear is a good thing! It means you truly care about the outcome. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, try to picture the end goal, rather than the work it will take to get there. Then, the more organized and informed you are (remember those baby steps we talked about?), the better you will feel. Thoroughly research what you’re pursuing to make an informed action plan.
Expand Your Horizons
Maybe you’re still not quite sure where to go or what to do., still feeling lost in life. To figure out what drives you, what passions you have, you have to try new things. Remember, you don’t have to be (and probably won’t be) good at a new hobby. This does not mean it’s not right for you! This is about enjoying the work, feeling motivated to continue, and wanting to improve at it. Read more books, watch new shows, try out a class. Sit down and write a short story, go for a walk and try your hand at photography. Shadow someone for a day at a job you think would be interesting. Email employees about “a day in the life” in their role. More often than not, they would be happy to answer your questions about what they do.
Remember, What You’re Feeling is Normal
Everyone (yes, everyone) questions if they’re in the right degree, the right job, the right city, and so on. You indeed need to sit down and be honest with yourself. However, it’s also important not to beat yourself up for having these emotions. It’s a very human thought.
Reach out for Help
Life coaches, career counsellors and psychologists can help to figure out what you truly value and what goals might align with this. They can help you create an action plan when you’re not entirely sure where to start, and ensure you stick to it. To discuss this with one of our counsellors, book a session here.
