I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up
Ask Laurel…
I’m not a kid anymore but I feel like I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. How do I start to figure it out?
You’re not alone. Lots of people come to a point in their lives when they have a sense of dissatisfaction about the work they do. Sometimes it’s because they’ve never really loved their job and now they have less tolerance for it. Sometimes they have just outgrown it and it’s no longer a good fit for their strengths and interests. And sometimes people reach a point when they begin looking for more meaning or fulfillment in their lives.
While this may create a sense of confusion or restlessness, think of it as an opportunity to explore possibilities. Reflection is the place to begin. Consider what you would do if time, money and experience didn’t limit you.
Think back to when you were younger. What did you want to be then? What about that was appealing to you? Make a list of what you want more of and what you want less of.
Reflection helps to build clarity. It might be that you want to embark on a new career path. It might be that volunteer work would fill your need. Perhaps a different perspective about the work you currently do would make a difference. Spend some time reflecting and from there you can begin to consider what your next steps might be.
Good points Laurel. When I think back to the dreams I had when I was young I realize that I don’t give myself time or space to think about what I want anymore, I just get through the days.
After I read this I decided to give myself some unscheduled time to think and was surprised by what I was able to accomplish while I was seemingly doing nothing.
Thank you!
Comment by Nan — March 26, 2008 @ 4:49 pm
That’s great Nan!
There’s a popular notion that if you’re not busy then you aren’t getting enough done. Scheduling less of our time is a wonderful way to create space to breathe, relax and dream.
Thanks for sharing.
Laurel
Comment by Laurel — March 27, 2008 @ 3:36 pm
“Consider what you would do if time, money and experience didn’t limit you. ”
I always gave that lip service since money isn’t a “concept” but rather a a real life thing that you can’t avoid. Or so I thought! I had such a great “coaching” session with you the other day, and the biggest epiphany that came from it is that it’s ok to have a job that isn’t your life’s dream. You can do your life’s dream AFTER work. With some creativity you can have a life that isn’t just black and white (dream or no dream). Thanks again, Laurel!
Comment by Neela — March 30, 2008 @ 9:41 pm