Dear eNotAlone: I'm 19 and I feel completely lost. I don't know what to do with my life. I feel like I'm stuck in a place where I can't go forward but can't turn back. All of the options before me suddenly seem pointless, nothing interests me. I just feel empty inside and I'm not sure what to do. How can I overcome this feeling and find out what I really want from life?
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You're in a position that lots of young adults find themselves in – wanting to move forward but not knowing which direction to take. There's an old proverb designed for moments like these which speaks directly to your situation: "ambition without knowledge is like a ship on dry land – it will never reach its destination." Having ambition is key, so don't neglect that. Instead, focus on gathering the knowledge you need to reach your goals and make sure you're prepared.
Start by breaking your issue down into smaller pieces. Identify the things that you're interested in, even if they're just minor sparks. Then, begin looking into those topics and figures out exactly what you need to do to get where you want to go. This can be finding out what degree programs are available, talking to experts in the field or even just reading up on resources online or at the library. You'll soon see a pattern start to form – and this will pave the way to new knowledge and opportunities.
Remember to also keep an open mind. We often miss brilliant opportunities because we're too focused on a limited set of possibilities. So don't be afraid to consider options that may have seemed discarded before. For example, a career in a certain industry may not have piqued your interest in the past, but after further research, you might find that it actually offers the perfect blend of challenge, excitement and financial reward.
Make sure you take time out for self-care. In the midst of your exploration, try to include activities that spark joy and make you feel good about yourself. A lack of confidence can lead to a lack of motivation and cause you to procrastinate when making progress. Find hobbies that give you're a sense of accomplishment, such as creative writing or volunteering in your community. Also, make sure to take regular breaks and enjoy life's simple pleasures. Remind yourself that you're growing and learning every day, even if the results aren't immediately visible.
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