What Am I Going To Do With The Rest Of My Life?
Unexpected life changes. Anticipated transitions. Long, sleepless nights. What's the link between these three things? "What on earth am I going to do with the rest of my life?" is one of the most troubling questions that people have ever asked themselves. I can only answer this question for myself, but I can give people in this situation some basic advice on how to make sure their future is as bright as the class valedictorian said it would be.
Take time to create a map
Too often, when we have to make a big (or small) choice in life, we either pick the first good option that comes up or let life make the choice for us, putting off the choice until life sweeps us past the turning point. It's clear that this isn't the best way to get what you want in life. Life's choices, on the other hand, can be so drastically different or so eerily similar that it's hard to tell which way to go. It would be great if we had a plan that showed us which roads to take and which ones to skip.
If you want to start something new, here are five things you should ask yourself. After you answer these questions, you should use them to help you make decisions and take action. When you have a choice, all you have to do is compare it to what you say you want and pick the one that gets you closer to (or at least not too far away from) your destination, which is your stated goals and desires.
- What does success mean to me?
Before you can plot your course in life, you need to define what success means to you. Success is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it's highly personal and varies from person to person. For some, success may mean financial abundance, while for others, it could be about personal fulfillment or making a positive impact on the world.
Take some time to reflect on what success means to you. Is it about achieving a certain career milestone, having a loving family, traveling the world, or simply finding inner peace? Your definition of success will serve as your North Star, guiding you through the journey of life.
- What are my non-negotiable needs?
We all have essential needs that must be met to live a satisfying life. These needs can encompass physical, emotional, and psychological requirements. It's crucial to identify your non-negotiable needs because they will determine the parameters of your choices and decisions.
Consider what you truly cannot live without. Is it a stable income, a supportive social network, a healthy work-life balance, or something entirely different? By understanding and prioritizing your non-negotiable needs, you can make choices that align with your well-being and long-term happiness.
- What are my non-negotiable boundaries?
Boundaries are the invisible lines that protect your well-being and personal space. Defining your boundaries is essential for maintaining your physical and emotional health. By setting clear boundaries, you create a framework within which you can navigate life's challenges and opportunities.
Think about what you're willing to tolerate and what you're not. Are you comfortable working long hours, or do you need a strict work-life balance? Are you open to certain types of relationships, or do you have specific boundaries in place? Recognizing your boundaries will help you make decisions that honor your values and respect your limits.
- What are my key values?
Your values are the principles and beliefs that guide your actions and decisions. Identifying your core values is critical in shaping your life's direction. When your choices align with your values, you'll feel more fulfilled and purposeful.
Consider what matters most to you. Is it honesty, compassion, creativity, or adventure? Your values will influence your career choices, relationships, and overall life path. By living in accordance with your values, you'll find greater contentment and authenticity.
- What do I want to be remembered for?
Reflecting on your legacy can provide valuable insight into the path you want to take in life. What impact do you want to leave on the world? How do you want to be remembered by your loved ones, your community, and society at large?
Your legacy can be a driving force in shaping your future decisions. Whether it's leaving a lasting impact through your work, your contributions to a cause, or the way you nurture relationships, considering what you want to be remembered for can help you set long-term goals and aspirations.
In conclusion, the question of what to do with the rest of your life is a profound one that deserves careful consideration. By taking the time to create a roadmap that includes your definition of success, non-negotiable needs, boundaries, key values, and the legacy you wish to leave, you can navigate life's twists and turns with greater purpose and clarity. Remember, your journey is uniquely yours, and with a well-defined map, you can steer your life toward a future that aligns with your true desires and aspirations.