Speaking with a friend recently we were discussing what the most important steps were in determining one's future. Mind you, we were talking about high school and college students and not mid-life crises. Giving it a bit of thought, however, one might benefit from this discussion at any point in life. That's because I think we really came up with a universal truth: Follow your passion.
It's an old adage and one that's probably brought more than a few dreamers, idealists, students, and drifters to a dead end. That said, I still would argue the same: If you start by pursuing what you love, you will find yourself in an environment that will welcome you and allow you to set off on your journey. Heads up, eyes open-- watch and listen. An engaged student may find themselves on a happy and familiar course or sent off in another direction entirely, related or not. But, paying attention, following your heart, the doors open and you move along, curious, hungry, and anxious to find what comes next. It's the very opposite of approaching life and learning as a scripted story. Thinking you have no choice, waiting for someone else to give direction, working to meet the expectations of others, hoping to have the plan placed in your hand: These paths take you nowhere. Fast.
I think a lot of adults face the same difficulty later in life. As their lives slow down and they transition to an empty nest or retirement they are fearful of what comes next. The lucky ones, however, never miss a step. They listen to their heart and find themselves moving along life's path without so much as missing a step. They remain fearless, busy, and engaged.
It's never too late. And for the person who says, "I'm not really interested in anything," try this: Make a list of 3 or 4 things you enjoyed when you were 10. Children seldom lie about what they enjoy. Dig something out of your old toy chest or pull from your old wish list. It's kind of like just letting yourself be happy for a change.
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