Think about the qualities and characteristics that define you as you are today. [2] X Research source Examine your values. What is most important to you? What principles define how you live? How were they formed, and who influenced you in adopting those values?[3] X Research source Assess whether those qualities and values have changed over the course of your life, or remained fairly constant. Whether or not they have changed, examine why that has been the case. [4] X Research source
Think about the relationships that mean the most to you. How have those relationships shaped you, for better or worse?[6] X Research source Now think about why those relationships are important to you. Why do you surround yourself with the people you choose to be with?[7] X Research source If relationships do not ground you, think about why that is. Are you someone who does not seek out intimacy with others? Is that something you like about yourself, or something you wish to change? Ask yourself honestly whether you would still be the same person without the relationships that you have had throughout your life.
Think about how you spend your free time. Which interests or hobbies do you spend the most time and energy on? Now consider why those interests are important to you. Have you always had these interests? Have they defined you since you were young, or are they more recent acquisitions? Why did you develop those interests in the first place? Ask yourself honestly, would you still be the same person without those interests?
Set aside 20 minutes to perform the visualization exercise. [10] X Research source Imagine your life in the near future, focusing on specific aspects of your life that will have gone as well as possible. [11] X Research source Write down the details of what you imagined for yourself. Think about ways to make the vision you have for yourself become a reality. Recall the future you’ve imagined any time you feel stuck or otherwise lost in life, and use it to center yourself.
Any time you suffer a loss or a sudden change, use it as an opportunity to reassess and re-evaluate your life. Many people see a loved one’s death, for example, as a wakeup call to do things differently or stop putting off long-term goals. A job loss can also be a wakeup call to find a job that offers more happiness and fulfillment. Ask yourself honestly if your current goals and personal values are the same as they used to be. If they are not, find ways to incorporate your new goals and values into your life.
Ask yourself if, in ten or twenty years, you would regret not having taken a chance at trying something new or doing things differently. Allow yourself to go through a process of self-discovery. Figure out what it is that you want most in life, and find a way to work toward that goal from your current self. As you imagine your future self, don’t forget that that self is still you. Don’t expect to be a different person. Rather, anticipate that experience will make you wiser and more informed than you are, without distancing you from your core self.
Consider freelance work in your chosen field. It may not be your ideal job position, but it will allow you to continue working in a field you enjoy, which can help renew your sense of purpose. Try networking. Some employment positions are only advertised internally, to other employees. This is why networking with other professionals in your field can be tremendously beneficial. It opens doors on new opportunities that you might have otherwise missed, and can help you feel like you are part of a larger community of likeminded professionals. Develop new habits that will help you get where you want to be. Doing the same things you’ve been doing for years probably won’t get you on a different track, so work hard at making the necessary changes.
If being kind and compassionate are part of your values, then find ways to practice kindness and compassion every day. If religion is one of your values, then practice your religion regularly. If fostering a sense of community is one of your values, then get to know your neighbors and try to organize a monthly get together.
Start doing what you love, and what makes you happy (provided that what makes you happy is safe and legal). There’s no reason to put off doing things that you are passionate about. Many people even find ways of building their passions into a self-sustaining job. It takes work, but it starts with finding time to do what makes you happy. [14] X Research source If you don’t have anything you’re currently passionate about, find something. Look to your set of values for inspiration on things that might bring you joy. Or, pick up a new hobby. Learn an instrument, take an instructional class, or go to a hobby store and ask someone who works there for suggestions on good beginner’s crafts.
Search online to find parks and hiking trails near your home. Just be sure to follow all the necessary safety precautions, and bring someone with you if you’re new to the area or the activity.
Try using meditation to feel more centered. Keep an intention in mind, such as centering yourself or finding a sense of self/purpose. Then focus on your breathing, ignoring any outside thoughts that pop into your head. Breathe through your nostrils and concentrate on the sensation of breathing in and out. Sit for as long as you are comfortable, and try to increase the duration of your meditation every time you practice meditating. [17] X Research source Search online and read about different religions from around the world. Each faith has its own sets of values and beliefs, some of which may fall in line with your own values. Talk to friends or relatives who are spiritual. They may have some insight and could potentially help you explore the practices and beliefs of various religions, if that is something you are interested in.
Call or email your friends and/or family members. Reach out to people you see often as well as people you only see occasionally. Let your friends and family know that you care about them, and tell them you’d like to spend more time together. Make plans to get coffee, go out to eat, go see a movie, grab a drink, or go on an adventure together. Putting time and effort into building stronger relationships will help you feel more happy and more sure in your sense of self.
If you are unhappy with your current career, look into finding ways to do something different. Some career paths may require additional education or training, while others may be accessible with your current education and work experience. Finding a way to work in a field that makes you happy will give you a tremendous sense of purpose and personal satisfaction.
