#1 — YOU’RE BEATING YOURSELF UP

In the article mentioned above, I share examples of people who knew from an early age what career they wanted to pursue. Having clarity on what they wanted shaped their decisions and actions. And this allowed them to turn their dreams into reality.​

But what if you’re unsure about your career direction? You’ve been going round in circles for years trying to figure out what you want next. You constantly compare yourself to others who have a clear plan — and the pressure to find your passion leads to self-doubt and inaction. 

What to do instead: If this is you, realise you’re not alone. The individuals who always knew what they ‘wanted to be when they grew up’ are in the minority.

Most of us have no idea — or what we thought we wanted changes. It’s common to be clear on your career path in your early 20’s but 10, 15 years later for it to no longer feel aligned. Or if you’re anything like me, you’ll pursue many different careers before finding the right fit!

When you stop beating yourself up for not having your career ‘figured out’, you will be free to explore what meaningful work looks like to YOU.

#2 — THINKING YOUR PASSION HAS TO BE YOUR JOB

The problem with ‘following your passion’ is it puts pressure on you to turn your interests into your work. You may start to believe you have to find the one thing you’re passionate about. Then, pursue that as your next job or future career.

But not everything you love has to become your career!

What to do instead: Let go of the belief your passions have to be your job! Give yourself permission to find fulfillment and enjoyment in your interests outside work too. Especially in the early stages of exploring what you want in your career.

When you stop trying to monetise every passion, you can actually enjoy those other interests outside your 9-5.

#3 — YOU FAIL TO CONSIDER WHAT YOU WANT

Are you focusing on job titles or finding your ‘dream role’ upfront? You’re trying to identify your one ‘passion’ or future career path — then match yourself to it

The problem with this approach is it skips the most important step: figuring out what you want.

This is why so many people leave jobs in search of the ‘right role’ — only to find they still aren’t satisfied. Without self-awareness: understanding what drives you and what you want for your future, work won’t feel fulfilling or sustainable.

What to do instead: Flip your focus from trying to ‘find your passion’ to understanding what you want, first. Take the time to get to know yourself and your priorities in work and life.

The Career By Design method I teach begins by reflecting on who you are: your purpose, values, unique strengths and interests. Then, we explore your future vision, financial and lifestyle goals.

When you start with self-awareness, you can look for a job or career path aligned to this — one which you’re passionate about!

#4 — IT LIMITS THE POSSIBILITIES

Your brain can only show you what it already knows and has experienced. This is the role of the Reticular Activating System (RAS), the part of the brain which controls the information you receive.

When you start with trying to ‘find’ your passion, you limit yourself to who and what you already know. This can lead you to make the wrong decision or discount potential opportunities.

One client had spent her whole career in accounting and her circle only included people she’d studied or worked with. She didn’t believe it was possible to pursue a different career path — because she couldn’t see anyone doing the things she longed to do!

You could also limit your job search to roles in your current profession or rely only on methods you already know, like job boards.

What to do instead: Rather than trying to ‘find your passion’, follow your curiosity. Give your brain the evidence it needs to see what’s possible.

Pay attention to the things you’re drawn to in your daily interactions. What sparks your interest? Tap into your network, find a mentor or talk to people doing work you’re fascinated by.

Keep following what lights you up — whether it’s an article, podcast episode, event or conversation. When you get curious, you’ll unearth new possibilities you never knew existed.

#5 — IT KEEPS YOU STUCK IN ANALYSIS PARALYSIS

Are you spending hours Googling potential career paths in search of your passion? Or scrolling job boards hoping by some miracle your dream job will jump out of the screen? While it’s important to reflect on what you want, too often people get trapped in ‘research mode’.

It’s scary to put yourself out there and try something new. Your brain wants to protect you and keep you inside your comfort zone. That’s why researching feels safer than taking action — but it’s what‘s keeping you stuck!

What to do instead: Clarity comes through action. Find practical ways to test out new skills like volunteering or taking on an extra project at work. Consider starting a side hustle or passion project outside your 9-5.

Talk to people doing work (or aspects of work) which you’re drawn to. Ask about their role, organisation, industry and career path. You’ll see what’s possible and open yourself up to new opportunities.

Notice what piques your interest, keep following the breadcrumbs and take consistent action. Because when you move from analysis into action, you will find clarity on your direction.

The pressure to ‘follow your passion’ can feel overwhelming and keep you stuck. A better approach is to follow your curiosity and take aligned action towards the things which spark your interest. This has helped my clients get clear on what they want in their careers — and I hope it supports you too.

Want help to figure out your next career steps?

Let’s chat! Book your free 30 minute consult HERE to get started.

Stacey Back is The Career Planning Specialist, an executive career coach and speaker. She helps high-achievers at a career crossroads find the work that lights them up, increase their income, impact and create a career + life on their terms. Stacey works virtually with individuals and organisations based across the globe.