Which way do I go?

Which Way Do I Go?

When Career or Life Paths Take an Unexpected Turn

Our plans don't always follow the map we’ve drawn for ourselves - and lately, we may be reminded of this fact far more than ever. Career plans that once felt certain can take sudden and unexpected detours.

Knowing that change is inevitable doesn't help soften the blow of the many "what-may-comes" that can go racing through our minds when we are confronted with change we didn't expect or want. It's ok - actually, it's healthy - to acknowledge your concerns and uncertainty if you are trying to figure out your next steps, personally or professionally.

Whether the recent election results directly impact you, affect you tangentially, or leave you feeling a mix of emotions—pause. If you're a mission-driven change-maker working to better society, know you don't have to have all the answers right away.

Take a deep breath and allow yourself a moment of reflection. Wherever you are, consider this time as an opportunity to reflect and realign with what truly matters most to you.

Center Yourself with Your Values

When faced with uncertainty, reconnecting with your values can provide clarity. Ask yourself:

• What drives me?

• What kind of impact do I want to create?

• What feels authentic to who I am and what I stand for?

These questions can help you regain your footing and reorient your career direction based on what resonates most deeply with your principles, rather than external expectations.

Principles as Your Compass

Think of your principles as a compass—they guide you when the road ahead feels unclear. Whether it’s integrity, collaboration, innovation, or service, leaning into these principles helps ensure that the steps you take are grounded and purposeful.

Allow Space for Reflection

It’s okay to not have all the answers right away. Give yourself time to process and redefine your goals. Reflection can involve journaling, speaking with a mentor, or even revisiting past experiences that brought you joy and fulfillment.

Take the First Step Toward Alignment

Your career path doesn’t have to be a straight line. It’s okay to pivot, change, or explore new directions, as long as they align with your core values and bring you closer to the person you want to be.

Embracing the Unexpected

When plans don’t turn out the way we envisioned, it’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and maybe even discover something better. By staying grounded in your values and principles, you can navigate the uncertainty with confidence, knowing you are making decisions that honor your authentic self and steering you to more confidently walk your path.

The power of reflection

Being open to shifting how we think a problem or situation can be a powerful step toward gaining fresh perspective and finding renewed clarity in your purpose. The change does not have to be a big one, but by allowing yourself to be open to the many ways you can make an impact can give you a renewed perspective on the many ways forward.