The Pressure of Figuring Out Your Future
Thought #2: Do I Really Need to Know What I Want to Be Yet?
My thoughts changed entirely in 11th grade; it feels different from the years before. Suddenly, questions about college, careers, majors, SATs surrounded me. People often ask, “What do you want to be?” or “What are you planning to study?” Sometimes I have an answer, and sometimes I honestly don’t.
I noticed some students of my age have already decided on their next steps and I too wanted to decide at least the major in college. But I’m starting to realize that deciding what you want to do with your future will not happen overnight. It comes from trying different things, discovering what interests you, and even learning what you don’t enjoy. But my interests and likes are changing very often and I’m still exploring. High school isn’t only about preparing for college—it’s also a time to learn more about yourself.
Right now, instead of expecting myself to have a perfect plan, I want to stay curious and focused. I want to try new things, learn about different careers, develop my interests, and pay attention to what genuinely excites me.
Maybe figuring out your future isn’t about having all the answers at 16 or 17. Maybe it’s about being willing to ask questions and giving yourself the opportunity to discover the answers along the way.
Bre Billa Blogs 