Let’s get this out of the way right now: I have no clue what the “right” next step is. Seriously, I’m just as lost as the next person trying to navigate life like a GPS that keeps saying, “Recalculating…” Some people seem to have their life all mapped out: study, work, partner, kids—like they have their own personal roadmap to the “perfect” future. Meanwhile, some of us—me included—can’t even figure out what to do tomorrow. So how do we pick the “right” next step? Spoiler alert: we don’t always know.

The pressure is real, right? We’ve all felt it—those parents who keep asking what you’re going to do with your life, the aunt who’s on a mission to set you up with someone, or the friends who seem to have it all together with their (well-deserved) high-income full-time jobs. It can feel like everyone else is on a steady climb, while you’re still trying to figure out if the next step is forward, sideways, or in a completely different direction. If you’ve ever been stuck wondering “what’s next?” you’re not alone.

I’ve been there too—trying to figure out what my life is supposed to look like after high school. How are you supposed to know your future when you’ve barely learned how to take care of yourself in the present? There are endless options. Should I study? And if so, how do I pick from a universe of study programs? Should I dive straight into work? Take a gap year? Start a YouTube channel? It doesn’t exactly get easier as you get older. I’m 24, with two degrees under my belt, and I’m still asking, “What’s next?” And you know what? I’m actually okay with it. Here are five tips that have helped me figure out what’s right for me, right now.

1. Embrace the uncertainty

Raise your hand if you’re still figuring it out—because I am, for sure! And guess what? That’s 100% okay. We live in a world where the “perfect life” is often sold as a clear, linear path. You finish high school, get a degree, land a job, get married, have kids, buy a house. Easy, right? Except it’s not. In reality, life is messy and unpredictable. Sometimes the “right” next step is just admitting that you don’t know. And guess what? You don’t need to know right now. A friend of mine changed programs three times before she found her path, and that’s totally okay. Experimenting with different options can also show you what doesn’t work, and that’s just as valuable.

2. Trust your own timeline

Everyone’s on their own timeline. Period. You’re not on some imaginary clock that’s ticking faster for you than it is for someone else. While your high school friends are getting married and buying houses, maybe you’re still figuring out if you even want to go into a full-time job just yet. That’s fine. Trust me, you’re not falling behind. I have friends who traveled the world, went into volunteer work, or explored different passions before settling into a career. We all have our own rhythm, so trust yours. If you need more time, take it. Your path is yours, and it doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s.

3. Ask yourself, “What feels right, right now?”

When in doubt, focus on what you need in the present. Forget about the 10-year plan for a second and ask: “What do I need right now to feel more fulfilled?” Is it a break to travel? A job that will give you experience? A chance to work on personal growth? Whatever it is, honor it. Personally, I’m on my third gap year at 24, and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. I’m learning who I am outside of academic achievements and career titles, and it’s been so valuable. Sometimes you need to take a step back to take a few steps forward.

4. Explore, don’t commit to one path right away

Okay, this might be my favorite piece of advice: you’re allowed to try things and change your mind. You do not have to pick one career or one path forever. In fact, the more you explore, the more you’ll figure out what’s truly right for you. Take an internship, learn a new hobby, travel to a new place, volunteer, or start a side project. Every experience gives you insight into what excites you—and what doesn’t. Remember, you’re not stuck. You can always pivot. Most people switch careers or change directions multiple times throughout their lives. A close friend of mine always says, “You never fail; you either succeed, or you learn.” So, go ahead—give something new a shot.

5. Don’t be afraid to take a break

I know, I know—everyone tells you to “hustle” and “always be moving forward,” but sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is nothing (well, kind of nothing). Taking a break can give you the space you need to re-evaluate your goals and come back stronger. Whether it’s a couple of months to focus on self-care, a solo adventure to clear your head, or just stepping away from the grind, it’s okay to pause. Not every moment has to be “productive.” Taking a break doesn’t mean giving up; it means giving yourself the time and energy to make your next move with more clarity.

Final thoughts

Here’s the deal: life doesn’t follow a straight line, and neither should you. The “right” next step is a mix of trial, error, and a whole lot of personal growth. Stop worrying about getting it all perfect and just take it one step at a time. Don’t let society’s pressure define your timeline. You have the power to choose what’s right for you, even if it means taking a detour now and then. Whatever you decide, remember: you’re doing just fine.

What’s a decision you’ve made recently that felt uncertain at first but turned out to be the right move for you? Or, what’s a step you’re considering but haven’t taken yet? ✨