The Woman BossThe Woman BossDo you feel pressured (maybe even by yourself) to have it all figured out? Are you unsure of what your path and/or purpose is- academically and career wise? Well, I have good news! You are definitely not alone in feeling that way. Personally, I always find comfort in not being alone and I hope you do too. I have come to learn that it is completely normal and okay to not know or be unsure of your path. Even as I write this, I have yet to figure out what I really want. However, along the way of my journey, I have made a lot of meaningful realizations and learnt a lot of necessary lessons. Today, in this piece, I will share with you a few of these discoveries I think you too will need to learn to navigate the maze that is self-discovery.
My Journey of Self-Discovery
In high school, I was jealous of everyone that had it all figured out. They knew what they wanted to study after school, they knew what they wanted to be, they had a clear plan- I didn’t. I could not even decide what degree I wanted to pursue for my bachelor’s degree. Fast forward four years after high school to the present and I have completed my undergraduate degree and, in the workforce, and still haven’t figured out what I want to do in life. For as long as I can remember, I have always been indecisive- which I think has been both good and bad. It has made me impulsive but also unafraid of change and new things and all they come with. I decided to study Political Science in university on a whim because I simply couldn’t decide at the time. I have now decided that I am not satisfied with my choice and the path that that major paves. I am therefore, again, searching and you know what? That is completely okay. I have embraced this journey fully. I am discovering my purpose slowly but surely while exploring new paths and passions. I have already learnt and still am learning so much from my experience.
Incredible Women Who Were ‘Late Bloomers’
I want to at this point give you a living, breathing testaments of my message. One powerful example is Maya Angelou- she worked as a dancer, actress, singer and civil rights activist all before she discovered her path in poetry in her thirties. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie focused more on her academic pursuits throughout and shortly after her undergraduate degree but followed her passion as a writer in her twenties. Take Oprah Winfrey as another example. Oprah’s early life was marked by poverty and abuse. She broke so many barriers being a black woman with an underprivileged background to be where she is today. It was not until she landed the role of hosting a local talk show in Chicago when she was in her late twenties that she found her path to success.
Tips and Tricks to Navigate your Path.
Explore and Experiment– Do not be afraid to try out new things. Try new activities, explore new interests, take courses, internships amongst other opportunities that may come your way. They may lead you to discover new interests, passions, and/or even your path and purpose.
Reflections and Self-Assessment– From time to time, just slow down and take a moment to just reflect and introspect. Take time to truly understand how you feel about the choices you have made and are making. Do they make you happy? What next? What do you want ultimately? Will the choices lead you to that? These are some of the questions you will need to ask yourself and honestly answer.
Seek Guidance and Support– No man is an island and as someone who does not have all the answers, be open to guidance from more experienced individuals. They will give you valuable insights and support on your journey. Seek support from the other people you care about. Consider getting a mentor.
Lifelong Learning– There is an infinite amount of knowledge to gain. Bear that in mind always and continue to stay curious and open to learning new things, even after you believe you have discovered your path.
Persistence– If you want to find out your passions, persistence is key. Even in the face of ‘failures and setbacks, you must keep going. Look at those moments as lessons and opportunities to grow.
Conclusion
To anyone reading this, it is completely normal to not have your path in life all figured out, especially while you are young. Embrace the process of self-discovery, just as impactful women before us have done. Remember, it wasn’t until she was in her thirties that J. K. Rowling wrote the first chapter of Harry Potter. Your path will not look like others’ because it is YOUR path, and all the dots will connect in due time. Embrace the unknown, be kind to yourself, and enjoy the journey!
Mariama Jammeh - Operations Manager - The Woman BossEmbrace The Process
As you are navigating your path, remember that it is a process. The journey is as important as the destination so enjoy the ride. One of the biggest things that mine has taught me is that life is unpredictable; that plans change. What you might have thought was your path could unexpectedly lead you in a different, more fulfilling or rewarding direction. Try as much as you can to embrace the process and have faith that all the puzzle pieces will fit into place eventually.
