There’s no doubt about it, finding yourself is hard. Whether you’re going through a career change, moving to a new place or are just feeling plain lost, it can be very easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of the bigger picture.
Recently, I’ve been questioning my career path (which I’m sure most people — especially college students — are familiar with) and have been constantly doubting what I thought I knew what I wanted to do with my life.
Going through this has made me realize how important it is to take a step back, take a deep breath and remember that we’re all human. So, here’s a little note to self, and to all of those who have ever felt lost or confused. Although a lot of this is easier said than done, hopefully, it serves as inspiration or even a nudge in the right direction.
Note to self:
Fear is an obstacle we create for ourselves. Stop equating comfort with happiness. Discomfort can be profound, but it doesn’t have to be painful. Be brave. Embrace change. Pushing your boundaries is but a side effect of growth. Don’t be afraid of new places, of people or of the way time never stops for you, even if you feel like you’re stuck in place.
If you’re feeling lost, instead of retracing your steps, pave a new path. You are not obligated to the person you were a few years ago, or even yesterday. Exploring your identity is vital to a heightened self-understanding. By straying from your tried and true methods, you may discover something about yourself you never knew. After all, as J.R.R. Tolken reminds us, “Not all who wander are lost.”
There’s a difference between pride and confidence. It’s OK to laugh at yourself — do it often. Don’t let go of something that makes you happy for the sake of appearing better to others. There are billions of people in this world. Don’t limit yourself to the ideals of a select few. Opinions wither as fast as words turn into echoes; they aren’t a concrete mold that define you.
You are bound only by the infinity of the universe, not the hometown you grew up in. You are more than your bones and blood. You are more than who you are now. This isn’t a stopping point, it’s a landmark.
