Life does not come with a road map. It is not determined by reaching certain milestones or achieving particular goals. No person shares the same path. While the destination remains constant, death, the way there is entirely distinct. We can learn lessons from others’ mistakes, but we must walk the way ourselves. Nothing can prepare you for what your life has in store. You must simply be agile and adaptable.
How does one find their way? Modern times are punctuated by distracting noise and it can be challenging to parse out the signal. One simple method for finding clarity is to remove all social media from your mind. Discard of the noise all together. Take refuge in the ensuing silence. Now you have space to think and formulate your next moves. What does your heart tell you? What is your gut whispering? This is the way forward.
We have never lived in a time where more people are telling us what we should do. The volume of unsolicited advice is unprecedented. “Influencers” on social media are confidently claiming which diets to follow, fads to pursue, relationships to end, and successes to achieve. At no point do they evaluate the limitations in their beliefs or show any consideration that they may be wrong. Following their advice is a fool’s errand.
So what is the path forward? Nobody’s life is a straight line. Everyone’s path meanders and drifts into unknown territory from time to time. To get lost along the way is to be expected. The key is continual learning and growth. Let every setback be a teachable moment. Every betrayal a sore lesson. Every hardship a character building exercise. As long as you’re growing, no detour from the way is too fatal. Keep moving and keep learning.
Sometimes we never find our way. We live the life others have bestowed upon us out of fear in disappointing them. As a consequence, we never feel our life is truly ours. Do not let this happen to you. No matter your age, it is not too late to forge your own distinct life. One characterised by your own style and flair. You are the author of your life and get to decide how it unfolds. Find your way before someone else does.