The fear of the Unknown: What does the Future hold?

Hey Friend, 

I totally feel you on this. After graduating, i am in the "what now" mindset. To combat this slump i have tried out the following, along with basic self care (eat, sleep 8+ hrs, exercise, sunlight):

- creating a regimented goal for something non work/study related: i challenged myself to be able to do 10 push ups and 10 pull ups. This helps me feel so accomplished

- being creative: we are lacking lots of creativity in the face of productivity. I have started doodling every single day, with the goal of NOT being perfect. Just pen to paper and seeing what happens. Then i appreciate the fact that it felt really nice. Even going outside to take photos on your phone is a great way to do it! also an excuse to get a little walk in

- looking back on past achievements: to combat the "useless" narrative, celebrating small or big wins is a great way to get yourself pumped up for the journey ahead. Whether its completing an assignment, or getting a higher grade than you expected. 

Thanks so much @genos for the tips!!

All the best ❤️

Hey @genos 

I totally get what you're feeling. The pressure to have everything figured out—especially career-wise—can be overwhelming. But you're not alone in this! Many people feel the same way, and there's no rush to figure it all out.

I love your self-care tips. Taking a walk, whether alone or with someone, is a great way to clear your mind and release stress. Volunteering is a great way to explore new passions and feel more fulfilled, and trying new hobbies can help you discover things you enjoy and may even lead to career ideas.

Remember, you're not "useless." It's totally okay to not have your future planned out yet. Life is a journey of discovery, and you’re doing great by being patient with yourself. Keep exploring, keep trying new things, and trust that things will fall into place. You’re exactly where you need to be. 💖

Hey @genos 

Thank you for sharing these tips. I really needed to hear this from someone as I am going through some feeling of helplessness in my degree as my exams are coming nearer and all this is just too overwhelming. All I have been trying to do id accept the things as they are but i will defintely try to talk to someone about this. 

I don't have any suggestions on this but I am trying to priorotise myself in all this.

Once again thank you for this😄.

Hey @genos

I don't have much advice in this situation, but I'm enjoying reading what everyone else has to say.

All I can say is that this is something that always plays into my mind. I've always been afraid of the future and what's just around the corner. But I'm definitely working on embracing it and definitely not letting it impact me too much 💕

Hi @genos 

Wonderful reminders you have given us all!

As for my small contribution, as someone now in their final grade of an undergraduate degree and not knowing what I have lined up for next year, I think it is important to recognise that everyone will have their time to shine. There is no blueprint or timetable for life, everyone does things at a different rate and success/accomplishments can look very different and come whenever they please.

I always remember someone telling me that getting good luck is when preparation meets opportunity, so the best you can do is to just be prepared for whatever you think/want to come in your direction. I will very heavily emphasise though, that in being prepared, be aware of signs of burnout and fatigue, and to take time to yourself every now and then to do things you enjoy (for me that will be bouldering or walking my dog).

Also just maybe a little unrelated side note, is that I keep a notes folder on my phone that is reserved for some meaningful sayings or some motivational/inspirational quotes that I can look back on in difficult times (which I recommend everyone to start doing), and one of my favourites is where focus goes, energy flows. So pour your focus into what you enjoy and what you want out of life, and the energy will follow!

It sounds like you're going through something a lot of people can relate to, including me! Career uncertainty can feel soooo overwhelming, especially when it feels like you’re “supposed” to have it all figured out by now. I’ve been there too, and it’s hard not to feel like you’re falling behind.

But the truth is, it’s okay not to have all the answers yet. I really love the advice you’ve shared, especially about walking and volunteering. I think those activities are great for reconnecting with yourself and working out what brings you joy.

Here are a few more tips that have helped me during similar moments: Focus on small, actionable steps: Sometimes thinking about "your whole future" can feel like too much. Try to focus on one thing at a time. Ask yourself, “What small thing can I do today that brings me closer to feeling good about myself?” It could be as simple as reading an article on something you’re curious about or learning a new skill just for fun. I've recently taken up learning Auslan and I'm loving it!!

Talk to people in different careers: Reach out to people who are doing jobs that seem interesting to you. Sometimes, just hearing their stories or advice can give you new ideas or help you see a path you might not have considered. Be kind to yourself: It’s easy to be hard on yourself, but try to remember that everyone’s journey is different.

You’re not "useless" at all—you’re just figuring things out, and that takes time! Being compassionate with yourself can make the process feel a little less stressful. It’s also okay to take a step back and remember that careers can evolve over time. You're not locked into one path forever. 🥰

Hi @genos 

Thank you for reaching out ReachOut forums 🙂 You also have some wonderful suggestions for others experiencing the same thing, you seem very insightful and kind.

Just wanted to let you know that you’re not alone. As cliche as that is, I promise you that no one really knows what they are doing.

It sounds really stressful and overwhelming to be unsure of future career paths. It’s so much pressure to try and choose a career! 😞

Like you said, there’s probably two ways to approach this. 

Generally, reaching out for support if it’s affecting your mental health or self-esteem. Reach Out has peer chat, and there are other helplines like Beyond Blue, Lifeline or eHeadspace/Kidshelpline (if you’re under 25)

Maybe speaking to a career counsellor or doing one of those online quizzes to find out your strengths or passions.

But please go easy on yourself, you are so young and you have time 🙂

All the best and take care,

Reach Out

Hi genos,

Welcome to the Online Community and thank you for posting and sharing what’s been happening for you lately.

I can see from your post how overwhelming and stressful it has been, particularly with choosing a career path. Deciding on a career and thinking about the future, can be really challenging and confusing for a lot of people so your feelings are definitely all valid.

I also want to commend you and thank you for suggesting these self-care tips! I can imagine other community members can also appreciate these, as you’re right, no one is alone through this. It sounds like, this journey of discovering a career path has been difficult, but I can see your proactiveness in working through this and looking after your mental health, which is amazing to see!

Feelings of hopelessness can be quite intense to handle by yourself, so I am wondering if you have been able to talk to a friend, family or mental health professional about how you’re feeling?

You might also be interested in checking out these two ReachOut resources. The first provides ideas and tips on choosing a career path while the second resource talks about how to stop worrying about the future of work.

I hope to hear from you soon 😊

Hey @genos 

Thanks for this post. I’m sure a lot of people are in a similar position and will really benefit from your suggestions. I think it reassuring to remember that a bunch of people don’t become what they planned to become in high school. People end up in fields miles away from what they planned when they started out their careers. It’s perfectly okay to try something out, not like it, and try something else. You will find something you’re passionate about eventually! You’re also allowed to jump from course to course if that’s what you need to do. There are so many opportunities out there and it can be intimidating, however, that also means that you always have a future.

Hi @genos ,these are such good suggestions! 

Maybe seeing a career counsellor as well could be beneficial, as they can help someone decide on the right path for them!