Are you feeling restless? Does a nagging voice in your head keep saying, “This isn’t what you’re supposed to be doing”? Do you crave more but have trouble figuring out what “more” is?
Feelings of unrest often strike during milestone moments in our lives, such as at retirement and on birthdays. This unrest can actually be a blessing in disguise; it can present us with the opportunity to reassess our plans for the future.
You are never too old to reinvent yourself.
When you feel restless or unhappy with your life, it’s an occasion to examine the direction you are headed. If you do not like what you see, then do something about it.
To get rid of your restlessness and replace it with hope, try the following:
1) Examine What Is Really Going on in Your Life
Are you unhappy because you are in an unhealthy relationship? Did you always put your goals and dreams on hold for your family? Are you thinking, “When is it my turn?”
2) Review Your Circle of Influence
Who are the people in your inner circle? What are they saying? Are they encouraging you to pursue your dreams and goals or dismissing those dreams and goals? Are they doing something you wish you were doing?
If your environment is toxic, move or distance yourself from it. If you are bit by the green-eyed monster of jealousy, focus on the positives in your life.
3) Review Your Options
Do you want to go back to school? Get a new job? Relocate? If so, we recommend you do the following:
– Do an online job search to see who is hiring where and for what roles.
– Review your current skills and educational background. What can you do now to start moving forward?
– Design a strategy to get that degree, land that new job, relocate, or do whatever it is you are itching to do. When designing your strategy, do not let fear stop you.
4) Assess Your Commitment Level
If it is not 100 percent, go back to the steps above and repeat. If it is 100 percent, you will need to design a plan for when you hit resistance. Resistance may come in the form of your spouse, parents, or well-meaning friends who consciously or subconsciously sabotage your plans. You will need to evaluate your circle of influence and make changes, if necessary.
5) Do Something Each Day That Will Bring You Closer to Your Goals
It is okay if it will take you 10+ years to reach your goal. You may have children to raise and school to complete. Don’t worry, and don’t let the number of years until you can begin living your life purposely derail you.
