Problem: Unsettledness about life and uncertainty about the future
Problem: Unsettledness about life and uncertainty about the future
Name: Lukas Meyer
Occupation: University Student
Location: Berlin, Germany
I'm Lucas, 24 years old. I'm studying economics at a university in Berlin. I'm very uncertain about my future. I feel like I can't find the right path in life.
Everyone around me seems to have set their goals—some want to build a career in finance, some are opening startups, some are preparing for government jobs. And me? I don't know what I should do.
Sometimes I feel like maybe I should be doing something else, something I enjoy. But I don't even know what I'm truly interested in. I do a lot of things, but I can't really enjoy any of them in the long run.
This uncertainty is frustrating me. I wonder if I'm going to fail? Am I wasting my time? How will I know which path is right for me?
— Lukas Meyer, Berlin
Solution: Askly Help's sincere advice
Dear Lucas,
These feelings are perfectly normal, and you're not alone. Many people in their 20s go through this kind of uncertainty. We think we should have a clear idea of our future right now, but the reality is—life is never that simple or straight-forward.
You said you're not sure which path is right for you. But there's a positive side to this—you're still searching. That means you're still getting a chance to explore, and that's a big deal.
Some ways to reduce anxiety about the future
1. Ask yourself: What do I love?
Have you ever noticed what tasks make you lose track of time? What topics make you feel more excited when you talk about them?
- Maybe you love writing, but you've never thought of it as a career.
- Maybe you are interested in business, but you are not taking risks due to lack of confidence.
- Maybe you feel drawn to a field that doesn't match your current education.
If you really want to find something, then experiment a little. Start learning new things, immerse yourself in different activities.
2. There is no such thing as a "right way"
We often think that there is only one right path in life that we have to find. But the truth is, life is a collection of many paths. If you choose one path and later realize it's not for you, that's okay too.
Many successful people have changed careers midway through their careers. Jeff Bezos was once a Wall Street worker, then started Amazon. There are thousands of such examples.
So, without finalizing anything, start taking small steps.
3. Instead of making big decisions all at once, set small goals.
A big reason for worrying about the future is that we tend to think too big at once. But instead of thinking about big goals, taking small steps will reduce the stress.
- What do you want to learn in the next 6 months?
- What new experience do you want to have?
- How do you like to work?
Review your goals every 3-6 months. This will reduce stress about the future and allow you to see new possibilities.
4. Eliminate the fear of failure.
Many times, we get so caught up in our thoughts before making a new decision that we don't take any action. We wonder, "What if I fail?" But the reality is, failure teaches you something new, opens the door to new opportunities.
So, don't be afraid to try. If you choose one path and find that it's not for you, it's possible to go another way.
5. Find a mentor
Sometimes, we find it hard to understand everything on our own. Talk to someone experienced in your field—a teacher, a senior, or someone who has already achieved something good in life. They can give you a new perspective.
Last words
Lucas, life is a learning process. Don't be afraid if you don't know exactly what you want to do today. Give yourself time, keep trying, learn new things, and most importantly—believe in yourself.
One day your path will become clear.
Best wishes,
— Askly Help