I love spending time with young people, listening to their perspectives, hearing how they see the world, and understanding what’s on their minds. Every generation views life differently and is shaped by the world in which they grow up. Someone raised during a four-year war will have a vastly different outlook from someone who experienced their country’s most prosperous years. Many millennials, for example, see work differently after witnessing the financial crisis in 2008 when their parents lost their jobs (and their homes in some cases) after working so hard.
But lately, I’ve noticed something that breaks my heart:
Some young people are putting immense pressure on themselves to have all the answers about life and careers at a very young age.
I talk often about purpose—how meaningful work brings fulfillment—but that doesn’t mean you need clarity on your purpose in your 20s. So, to those feeling lost or overwhelmed, here are a few insights from working with clients at every stage of life:
- Every job has value. Even if your first job doesn’t feel like the perfect fit, it’s not a waste. You’ll gain skills, insights, and a clearer understanding of what you enjoy (and what you don’t- sometimes the latter helps even more).
- You don’t need to have everything figured out. Clarity comes with experience. For most of us, a purpose or a career we love doesn’t just “click”—it’s something we discover over time through trial, reflection, and self-awareness.
- Be patient with yourself. You grew up in an era of instant answers—Google, AI, and texts—but life’s biggest questions take time. Previous generations spent days searching for answers in books and libraries. Your journey of self-discovery will require patience too (even ChatGPT can’t tell you exactly what your purpose is!).
- You have time to explore. You may feel like you need to “be” someone or reach a certain milestone right now, but you’re still young. There are endless opportunities to pivot, upskill, and explore new career paths. The sheer number of courses, books, podcasts, and workshops available today means your options are vast.
- Your first job isn’t your forever job. You don’t have to find your ideal career right away. Focus on gaining experience, making a living, and reflecting on what you enjoy. Each year, check in with yourself: What energizes you? What drains you? Your next step will be more conscious.
- It’s okay not to know. If you’re feeling uncertain, know that you’re not alone. I work with people in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s who are still figuring out what they truly want. You’re exactly where you need to be. Do not rush it.
So, take a deep breath. Explore. Ask questions. Trust the process. And most importantly, be kind to yourself.
Thank you Eva! Thanks for taking the time to read and comment. I agree life is too short and this much pressure is just too much 🙂
What wonderful advise for the young and older alike. We don’t have to be in any hurry. Life is to short as it is. Just relax and go with the flow the answers will come to you in do time. In the meanwhile try to make the best of whatever your doing until you figure it all out. Life is precious and should be enjoyed! Great article!