Career Confusion Is Normal, Here’s What Actually Helps:

Spoiler: You're not broken. You're just human.

After years of working with professionals, from students to seasoned industry experts. one truth keeps resurfacing:

A lot of people don’t know what they want. Not in their first job. Not ten years in. Sometimes… not ever.

And it’s not because they’re unmotivated or incapable, it’s because they’re trying to navigate careers in a world that keeps shifting, with expectations that don’t always match reality.

So if you’re in that space right now, unsure, overwhelmed, or quietly questioning your next step, here’s what I’ve learned from those who’ve moved forward with purpose anyway:

1. You don’t need to “figure it all out.” You just need a next step.

We’ve been told that clarity is a destination, something you reach if you plan hard enough or choose wisely enough early on. But the truth is, most people discover what they want through trying, not theorizing.

Some of the most fulfilled people I’ve spoken to didn’t make one perfect choice, they made many imperfect ones, each one teaching them something valuable. And then one day, they looked back and realized, “Ah. That’s how I got here.”

2. Don’t obsess over titles. Track your energy instead.

You’d be surprised how many people say they want a “lead” or “manager” title… until they get it and hate the reality of the role.

What actually matters? The moments that light you up, even in small ways. Pay attention to what tasks make time fly, what kind of problems you enjoy solving, and which environments drain you vs. energize you. That’s your compass.

3. Changing direction isn’t failure. It’s growth.

There’s a strange guilt that comes with pivoting, like you’re admitting defeat. But in reality, every person I’ve met who’s taken a leap, whether into a new industry or role, has done it because they outgrew something.

The strongest careers are built by people willing to evolve, not just perform.

4. Conversations lead to clarity, not job boards.

Some of the biggest shifts I’ve seen happen not from scrolling or second-guessing, but from talking. Chatting with someone in a role you’re curious about. Asking questions at an event. Admitting you’re unsure, and hearing, “Me too.”

Most people don’t advertise the fact they feel lost sometimes. But when they open up, it creates space to grow.

5. Purpose is built, not found.

You don’t stumble upon passion fully formed. It’s shaped by what you learn, who you meet, and the risks you take. So instead of chasing one “dream job,” chase the kind of work that helps you become the person you want to be.

Final Thought

If you’re unsure where you’re heading, that’s okay. You’re not late. You’re not behind. You’re just in progress.

Ask better questions. Stay open. And remember: clarity doesn’t come before the journey. It comes from it.

If this resonated with you, feel free to connect or drop a message , I’ve had these conversations many times, and I know how much they can help.