#CareerConfusion #LostInMy30s #CareerGuidanceNeeded
Hey there, 31 and feeling a bit lost? 🙋 Don’t worry, you’re definitely not alone. Many of us have been in a similar place, unsure of what we want to do with our careers and feeling like we’re just drifting along. But fear not, there are ways to figure things out and find more fulfillment in your professional life. Let’s dive into some strategies and tips to help you navigate this confusing time in your life.
Assess Your Skills and Interests
First things first, let’s take a step back and evaluate your skills and interests. Reflect on the tasks you’ve enjoyed in past jobs, as well as the ones you’ve loathed. Think about activities or hobbies that bring you joy and fulfill you. Here are some questions to consider:
– What are my natural talents and strengths?
– What activities do I find myself getting lost in for hours?
– What are my values and what’s important to me in a job?
– What are my long-term career goals and aspirations?
By answering these questions, you can start to identify potential career paths that align with your interests and strengths.
Explore Different Industries and Roles
It’s okay to not have everything figured out at 31. In fact, it’s quite common for people to switch careers or explore new industries well into their 30s and beyond. Don’t be afraid to dip your toes into different roles and industries. Consider doing some informational interviews with people in professions that intrigue you. Ask them about their career paths, what they enjoy about their work, and any advice they have for someone looking to break into the field. You might just discover a new passion or career path you hadn’t considered before.
Invest in Professional Development
Taking a course or pursuing further education can open up new doors and provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to transition into a different career. Look for online courses, workshops, or certifications that align with your interests. This not only shows potential employers that you’re committed to your professional growth but also boosts your confidence in your abilities.
Seek Mentorship or Career Coaching
Having a mentor or career coach can be incredibly valuable when you’re feeling lost in your career. They can provide guidance, support, and advice as you navigate your professional journey. Look for networking events or online communities where you can connect with experienced professionals who can offer valuable insights and mentorship.
Take Small Steps Toward Change
Feeling stuck can be overwhelming, but remember that change doesn’t have to happen overnight. Take small steps toward figuring out your career path. Update your resume, reach out to old colleagues for potential job leads, or start attending industry-related events to expand your network. Taking small actions can build momentum and bring you closer to finding a career that excites and fulfills you.
Don’t Compare Your Journey to Others
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your career progression to that of others, especially when you see your partner or friends excelling in their jobs. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique. Focus on your own path and what makes you happy and fulfilled. Your journey may look different from others’, and that’s perfectly okay.
Final Thoughts
Feeling lost in your 30s is a common experience, but it’s not a dead end. Take the time to reflect on your skills, interests, and values; explore new industries and roles; invest in your professional development; seek mentorship or career coaching; and take small steps toward change. Remember, it’s never too late to pivot and build a career that brings you joy and satisfaction. Hang in there, and remember that you have the power to shape your career destiny. Good luck! 🌟
What are your goals?
What do you wish you had the confidence to do?
How could you help yourself get there?
What advantages could working remote provide you in regards to what else you’d like to be doing?
What are your current obstacles (write them out) and how could you scale them?
I would ask myself questions like that. Then, things like your job will come into focus regarding how it could be useful for you, instead of you just being useful for them
Following I’m very much in the same boat but single
Saaaaaaaame here
In a similar boat, I have started looking into volunteering in something that interests me. Some people aren’t fulfilled by their job, but if you are passionate about other things you could look into them as either hobbies or volunteer work 🙂
I’m 30 and I feel the same way.
I’m in the same exact boat 🙁
You write your own story. Do what you need to do.
Do u have a degree? If not take an assessment test at a vo tech or a community college to see where your interests are
I’m 31 male and don’t know what to do w my life. I just got out of the military after 8.5 years and still don’t know what to do w my life and it’s even harder to decide w kids and working around my wife work schedule
Omg I’m in a similar boat. I’m 31F working a remote admin job. I’m in a relationship we have no kids or real responsibilities besides our dogs and bills. I am going to school mostly because I felt like I needed to do something with my life.. but I’ve only been able to do little by little. Taking 1-2 classes each semester. I’m trying to get into a sonography program but it’s very tough and it’s taken me so long to get here that every year I don’t make it into it I have to wait another year to apply again. This is the first year I’ll be able to apply because money has always been an issue. But I’m not sure I’ll make it and if I have to wait another year I might take my eyeballs out. It’s hard to not feel depleted so In 2024 I’m determined to set 3 major goals to accomplish them and find myself! It’s hard not to feel behind but I feel like we are all just trying to figure it out and there so much more to life than money and a career. Idk but if anyone has advice for me it would be nice lol I’m also lost.