Working a job you dislike and not knowing what’s next.
WORKING A JOB YOU DISLIKE AND NOT KNOWING WHAT’S NEXT.
Follow for more honest conversations on navigating post-grad life.
Remember that exhilarating feeling? The acceptance letter, the endless possibilities, the certainty that our rigorous education was a golden ticket to a fulfilling career. We poured ourselves into academics, internships, and extracurriculars, all aiming for that perfect launch. Yet, for many of us, the reality of the working world has been a surprising, often disorienting, transition.
You’re not alone if you find yourself sitting at a desk, looking at spreadsheets, or attending endless meetings, wondering if this is what "success" truly feels like. The pressure to live up to the promise of our degrees is immense. We see curated LinkedIn feeds of peers thriving, achieving, and innovating, which can amplify feelings of doubt and even inadequacy. It’s a silent struggle, often exacerbated by the very drive that got us into our institutions in the first place.
This "weird transition" can take a heavy toll on our mental health. The fear of failure, the question of "what next?" when you’re in a role you don't love, can be isolating. It’s okay to feel lost, even after earning one of the most coveted credentials. Our education taught us to solve complex problems, to think critically. These skills are invaluable, even when applied to navigating your own career path, even when that path isn't perfectly clear. This is not a detour; it’s part of the journey. Embrace the uncertainty and remember your intrinsic worth extends far beyond your job title.