To the Next Chapter – The Journey of Discovery

Dear younger me and all those stepping into adulthood,

As I look back on my own journey, I realize that understanding what’s important and creating a plan for the future are skills no one ever teaches you directly. You’re expected to figure it out along the way, but sometimes the guidance isn’t clear enough. That’s why this next part is crucial—because I want you to know that it’s okay to feel lost or unsure about your future. The good news is you don’t have to have all the answers right now, but you do need to start looking for them.

So, how do you plan for the future when it feels like there are too many options or not enough clarity?

1. Start by Reflecting on what’s Important to You

The first step to any plan is knowing what matters to you. And no, I don’t mean what your parents, friends, or society think should matter. What’s important to YOU? Ask yourself:

What makes you feel alive?

What activities do you enjoy, even if you’re not great at them yet?

When do you feel most fulfilled? Is it when you’re helping others, creating something, solving problems, or working with your hands?

What values drive you—creativity, independence, security, family, or adventure?

These questions are not easy to answer, especially when you’re still discovering yourself. But just starting the conversation with yourself is key. It’s about figuring out what gives you joy and makes you feel purposeful, not just what seems “cool” or profitable.

2. Identify Your Strengths and Talents

For many, this is where things get tricky. You might not feel like you have a clear “talent” or special ability, but trust me—everyone has something. Here are a few ways to start identifying yours:

Look at your past experiences: What subjects or activities came naturally to you in school? Did you excel in science, enjoy writing essays, love debates, or shine during practical assignments like art or music?

Ask those around you: Sometimes, the people closest to us can see things we can’t. Talk to trusted friends, teachers, or family members. Ask them what they see as your strengths.

Try new things: Sometimes, the only way to find out what you’re good at is by stepping outside your comfort zone. Volunteer, take up a part-time job, join a club, or start a project that interests you. You might discover a hidden passion or talent along the way.

3. Choosing the Right Program or Career Path

When it comes to picking a university program or career, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options. The pressure to “choose right” can be immense, but here are some things to consider:

Research is key: Before settling on a course or program, spend time learning about it. What does it entail? What are the career prospects? Do people in this field enjoy what they do? This will help you avoid the mistake of choosing a program simply because it seems prestigious or because someone else wants you to.

Look at the bigger picture: Some courses or degrees offer a direct path to certain careers (like medicine or engineering), while others provide broad skills that can apply to various fields (like communication, business, or social sciences). If you’re unsure of a specific job title, go for something that offers flexibility.

Don’t rush into it: It’s okay to take your time. You might want to start with general education courses, internships, or volunteer work before deciding on a specialized path. It’s better to explore and figure things out gradually than to commit to something you’re not passionate about.

4. Plan, but Stay Flexible

Now, let’s talk about planning. Planning doesn’t mean you have to have every detail worked out. Life will throw curveballs, and your interests may change. But having a rough idea of where you want to go helps guide your steps.

Short-term goals vs. long-term goals: Start with small, manageable goals—like learning a new skill or completing an internship in a field of interest. Long-term goals could be broader, like “I want to run my own business,” “I want to work in healthcare,” or “I want to live a creative life.”

Stay flexible: You’re not locked into one path. If you find out halfway through university that your chosen course isn’t for you, don’t panic. Many people change their majors or even their careers multiple times throughout life.

Prioritize self-improvement: Whatever path you choose, always aim to improve yourself. Whether it’s through education, self-help books, attending workshops, or seeking mentors—never stop growing.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

You don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s career counselors, online resources, or mentors, reach out and seek advice. The more you learn from others, the more options and possibilities you’ll see.

Remember, there is no shame in asking questions or needing guidance. Everyone was clueless at one point, including the people who seem like they have it all figured out today. The difference is, they sought help when they needed it.

6. Trust the Process

Finally, trust that you’ll figure it out. Life is a journey, and your future will unfold in ways you can’t predict right now. But by taking the time to reflect, explore, and plan, you’re already ahead of the game.

So, to the younger you, don’t stress if you don’t have everything mapped out. What’s important is that you take steps to learn more about yourself and the world around you. Keep asking questions, keep exploring, and most importantly, keep moving forward.

You’ve got this.

With hope and encouragement,

Your older self

Rammie