When you’re young, it can feel like everyone else has a plan—except you. From leaving school to starting your first job, there’s so much pressure to make the “right” choices and keep up with everyone else. But here’s the truth: almost nobody really does.
Why Do We Feel This Pressure?
Social Milestones & Expectations:
From a young age, society lays out milestones—school, exams, career, relationships—that make life feel like a checklist. As soon as you leave school, the world starts asking, “What’s next?” before you’ve had a chance to figure it out. These pressures come from everywhere: parents, teachers, friends, even social media.
Fear of Falling Behind:
It’s easy to feel like you’re not moving fast enough when you see others’ achievements online. The “fear of missing out” (FOMO) makes it seem like everyone else has their life together—even though, in reality, most people are figuring it out as they go.
Uncertainty & Identity Formation:
Your late teens and early twenties are all about exploring who you are (what psychologists call “Identity vs. Role Confusion”). It’s normal to feel unsure, but when uncertainty is seen as failure, it creates anxiety and self-doubt. The pressure to “choose right” the first time can make every decision feel overwhelming.
Why Do We Compare Ourselves to Others?
Social Comparison Theory:
We naturally compare ourselves to others to understand our own progress and worth. In moderation, this can motivate us. But constant comparison—especially online—can erode self-esteem and set unrealistic standards.
Highlight Reels vs. Real Life:
Social media is a highlight reel, not real life. People share their wins, not their struggles. Comparing your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s best moments can make you feel lost or inadequate.
The Myth of the “Perfect Path”:
There’s a myth that successful people always knew what they wanted and followed a straight path. In reality, most careers involve experimentation, changes, and even failures.
Why Childhood Passions Matter
Authenticity & Flow:
The things you loved as a child—drawing, building, exploring, helping others—reflect your natural strengths and interests, before outside pressures shaped your choices. Psychologists call this “intrinsic motivation”: doing something because it feels good, not for external approval.
Wellbeing & Fulfillment:
Research shows that people who align their work with their authentic interests and strengths experience more job satisfaction, resilience, and overall wellbeing. Reconnecting with childhood passions can help you rediscover what energizes you, leading to more meaningful career choices.
Self-Discovery & Growth:
Exploring what’s in your roots isn’t about going backward—it’s about using your unique experiences and interests as a foundation for growth. This encourages curiosity, playfulness, and a willingness to experiment (all crucial for adapting in a changing world).
So Why So Serious?
Somewhere along the way, we start believing life is a race and work is all about ticking the right boxes. But if you ask anyone a little further down the road, you’ll find most are still figuring it out, too. Your first job doesn’t have to be your forever job. Your path can twist, turn, and even double back—and that’s not just normal, it’s healthy.
Work Should Be Fun, Too
Life is about more than work—but work is a big part of life. Shouldn’t it be something that brings you energy, meaning, and even joy? At inyourroots®, we’re here to help you find opportunities that fit who you really are—not just what’s on your CV.
You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling lost, behind, or unsure, remember: you’re in good company. Most people are still figuring it out, no matter their age. The important thing is to stay curious, be kind to yourself, and keep moving forward—one small step at a time.
Sow Your Skills, Harvest Your Future. Let’s make work (and life) more fun, together.