Motivation, Sink or Swim Moments and Career Pivots

Are you feeling stuck, lost and confused with what to do next? Does the question, “what am I doing with my life?” keep going round and round in your mind. You’re trying to figure it out, but you have no idea where to start – let me help.

Welcome to my What Am I Doing With My Life Blog Series where I will be sharing key insights, actionable tips and advice from inspirational women. Spoiler alert – they had no idea what they were doing with their life at one point too!

I have always found it incredibly helpful and reassuring hearing about other peoples’ journeys and how they have navigated the normal ups and downs, which led me to launching my podcast – What Am I Doing With My Life? With Elyssa Desai.

And now in this blog series, I will be delving into each conversation to share the key insights and advice to help you take action and get unstuck.

Courtney Smith: Her Journey

Courtney Smith is a Stylist, Creative Director, Presenter and all-round style maven.

Her career has been marked by both challenges and growth, shaped by uncertainty and self-discovery. She began her journey with a passion for fashion, initially aspiring to become a designer. However, a mentor in college helped her recognise her true potential as a stylist, which led to a career shift that would define her future. Despite facing rejection and frustration, Courtney persisted, cold-calling TV companies and taking risks, which eventually paid off.

Courtney’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, flexibility, and embracing uncertainty. Her willingness to say "yes" to opportunities, even when underprepared, helped her grow and build a reputation as a stylist and creative director. Over time, she realised that success doesn’t follow a straight line, and her journey was shaped by both the risks she took and the opportunities she seized.

What To Do When You Have No Idea What You’re Doing With Your Life

1. Remember it’s Ok to Feel Lost or Confused:

   Feeling lost or unsure is completely normal, and it’s important to embrace the uncertainty of life. Success stories on social media often leave out the struggles, so don’t let confusion or lack of direction discourage you. Sometimes, moments of uncertainty are leading you to better opportunities. Learn to sit with discomfort – it can be a magical spark of growth.

2. Self-Care and Mental Wellness Are Key to Clarity:

   Before diving into your next career, focus on your mental and emotional wellbeing. Being in a positive mental space allows for greater clarity and focus on goals. Whether it’s through exercise, meditation, or quiet reflection, taking care of yourself is crucial for moving forward with confidence.

3. Cultivate Self-Motivation:

   Motivation often has to come from within, especially when external support is lacking. Courtney found motivation through journaling, listening to inspirational speakers, and reading books that sparked creativity. If you feel stuck creatively, books like The Artist’s Way can help unlock your potential and keep your drive alive.

4. Embrace Failure as Part of the Process:

   Failure is an inevitable part of growth. Instead of viewing failure as a setback, see it as a learning experience and a necessary step towards success. Many successful people have failed multiple times but continued to learn and adapt. Embrace these moments as part of your journey.

5. Build a Vision but Stay Open to Unexpected Opportunities:

   While it’s important to have a vision for your future, don’t get too attached to the exact timeline or method in which your dreams manifest. Life can surprise you with opportunities you never imagined. Courtney’s career unfolded in unexpected ways - showing that sometimes the best opportunities come when you least expect them.

6. Take Risks and Pursue What You’re Passionate About:

   Sometimes, the key to fulfilment is taking a risk. Courtney took a leap of faith, leaving a stable TV career to pursue her passion for fashion styling. Though risky, following her passion has brought her a sense of fulfilment that she wouldn’t have achieved by staying in her comfort zone. Ask yourself: What work would you feel proud to share with the world?

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot or Change Directions:

   Life isn’t a straight line, and careers aren’t always linear either. If you're feeling unfulfilled or stuck, it’s okay to change direction. Courtney is the perfect example of this and shifted her focus from fashion design to styling, which aligned better with her strengths. The key is being open to new possibilities and evolving as you grow.

8. Embrace Small Wins and Stay Productive:

   Success doesn’t always come in big leaps. Start each day with small, essential tasks (like admin work or emails) to set yourself up for bigger creative work. These "boring" tasks help build momentum, freeing up your mind and energy for the tasks that excite you.

9. Seek Guidance and Support from Others:

   Building a network and seeking mentorship is essential for growth. Whether it’s through friends, mentors, peers, or professionals, talking to people can provide valuable insights and fresh perspectives. Remember: you don’t have to do it alone.

Courtney’s Key Takeaway if Your Feeling Lost

Courtney’s journey is the perfect example that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. Be patient with yourself, keep reflecting on your values, and remain open to new experiences. The road may be unclear, but staying curious, taking action, and embracing failures as an opportunity will lead you towards growth and fulfilment. There’s no one "right" path - trust the process, follow your passions, and be open to what unfolds. You’ve got this!

You can listen to the full episode of the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. To read the full transcript please go to Apple Podcasts.

I would love to know what you think about this new blog series and if you find it helpful - let me know in the comments.

If you would like to find out how I can support you, then book a free discovery call.