Finding a Path of Your Own

There’s no direct route to success. The best one is the one that works for you based on your passions, strengths and goals. Whether you have a specific dream you’ve been wanting to pursue, or you’re just not sure where you want to go next, remember, you’ve got time, and you’ve got options.

Breaking the Mold

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re familiar with the standard options — and you’re looking for something a little more “you.” Maybe you need some time to get in touch with yourself, or maybe have plans that don’t fit neatly within the confines of going to college or working full time. All you have to do is pick a destination, make a plan and get going.

Step One: Know Yourself

The first step to finding your own path is knowing yourself — maybe not 100%, but enough that you are clear on what you like doing and what you’re good at. If you’re not sure where to start with that, consider asking yourself the following questions.

What Do You Like?

Are you passionate about traveling or helping others? Do you love working with your hands, solving problems or learning new things?

What Are You Good At?

Are you the handiest person in your friend group or the one people go to for help with homework? Do you have a knack for numbers, or have you already put a good amount of time into a skill like music or carpentry?

How Do You Like To Work?

When you’re playing a game, do you read the manual first or dive right in?

What Do You Want To Learn?

Are you looking to learn a new language or get certified in a marketable skill? Or are your goals a little more broad, like experiencing a new culture or visiting a different part of the world?

Are You Willing To Take Risks?

Do you like getting out of your comfort zone, or are you a big fan of structure and routine? Are you hoping to stay close to home or go somewhere totally new?

Hopefully, these questions have given you a better sense of what your path might look like. If you’re still not quite sure, try taking our pathfinder quiz, designed to connect you with more curated options and potentially give you an extra push in the right direction. Take the Quiz

Step Two: Know Your Plan

Whether you want to start a business, immerse yourself in volunteer work, learn some new skills, develop a better understanding of yourself or just travel for a while, it’s good to know what you want out of this chapter of your life before you start moving. After all, the most important part of carving your own path is having a clear destination. To start, consider a few short-term goals you can accomplish in the next few months and some corresponding long-term goals for the next few years. Once you have that figured out, it may be a little easier to understand what you want to do and track your progress.

Benefits of Finding Your Own Path

Finding your own path isn’t for everyone, but for those with a natural independent streak, or goals and passions that don’t quite fit into the boxes of higher education or a set career, it can be a great way to reach your full potential and live life on your own terms. While that may sound tempting, it’s important to understand that this level of unstructured freedom may not be for everyone. Many such unconventional paths require a lot of self-discipline, focus and willingness to be your own boss. Some benefits you may find on a path of your own include:

Growth

Whether you choose to find your own path close to home or on the other side of the world, it's a great way to learn, evolve and develop a sense of ownership over your life and decisions.

Flexibility

When you find your own path, the only limits on your time and bandwidth are the ones you give yourself, making it a great way to pursue things like nonprofit work and travel.

Affordability

Part of successfully finding your own path is figuring out how to do it in a financially sensible way, but if you’ve got a solid plan and can stick to it, the world is your oyster.

Opportunity

Finding your own path opens a variety of doors that you might never encounter elsewhere, from unconventional jobs and networking connections to invaluable life experiences.

Paths Available to You

No wrong answers here. Whatever you feel called to do with the next chapter of your life, you’ve got a lot of great options. Here are just a few you might consider:

Taking a Gap Year

Find yourself — or just go somewhere cool. Travel, work abroad, learn a new language or commit yourself to a personal project.

Volunteering

Change the world, one good deed at a time. Dedicate your time and energy to a charitable organization, hone your skills and make connections.

Starting a Business

Become your own boss — no pressure. Develop a plan, get organized and try to solve some business problems.

Certifications

Gain some skills to help pay the bills. Study up and get certified in a marketable skill, like project management or coding.

Taking the Next Step

Pathfinder Quiz

First things first: What do you like doing, and what are you good at doing? If you’re not sure, try taking our quiz to get a better feel for your strengths and interests.

Military Service

The Military isn’t anything like the movies. From engineering and medicine to cybersecurity, military service can help you develop a variety of highly marketable skills and set you up for long-term success anywhere.

Professional Networking

Not sure where to start when it comes to networking? Check out our advice for making, keeping and developing connections with others.