From the minute a child enters the school system they are asked what they want to be when they grow up. Preschoolers and kindergartners draw pictures of their dreams; police officers, firemen, princesses and athletes line the classroom walls. They dress up and pretend to be the people they fantasize of someday becoming. As these young dreamers change and grow up, so do their ideas on what they want to do. For some it never changes. Their aspirations from a young age drive and motivate them to achieve. Others quickly realize that not everyone can be a princess or an NFL star, and are forced to adapt.
I, like many others, have struggled to figure out what exactly I want to do with my life. Listening to friends and loved ones excitedly discuss their career goals after college can be bittersweet when you have no idea what you want. On the one hand, you're happy that they know precisely what they want to do, but you're also sitting there thinking to yourself, "why don't I have it figured out yet?" When asked about your plans, responding without an answer elicits the usual, "oh, well I'm sure you will figure it out soon". Well what if that day never comes? What if there is no big epiphany or "Aha" moment? Well, I am here to tell you that is perfectly alright.
Not everyone is destined to have a career or a job that they have been passionate about achieving. There is nothing wrong with you, and there is no shame in not having a true calling or passion. This is not to say that you will end up with a job or career you hate. Many of us will get jobs that we simply enjoy, but aren't totally starstruck by. They aren't lifelong dreams or careers we necessarily aspired to achieve, but they are important. The job, and the work you do will simply be a platform to fund and support your other passions.
Many do not pursue a job they are in love with, but instead strive to have a rich and stable life. But, there is more to life than your occupation. Many will take joy out of starting a family, joining clubs and groups, or doing hobbies they have always loved. Not everyone's interests translate directly into a career tailored for them.
For people who will not find their passion in the workplace, let your outside interests drive your life. Figure out what you truly want out of your time on earth, and allow your job to fund and support these dreams. Travel, try new things, keep doing what you have always loved and stop worrying about not having a perfect job.
Obviously, don't give up hope in trying to find your perfect career while in school. Study hard and explore your options. Work towards achieving your degree, and maybe you will find your true calling. Don't let it become all consuming and don't stress out too much. If your ideal career exists, it will come. If it doesn't, well, oh well. There will be plenty of other passions and experiences to discover throughout your life.
Not everyone has a calling and that is alright. You are not alone, and you are not doomed. Take a breath, smile, and enjoy all the big and small things this wonderful world has to offer.
