Are you feeling lost or anxious in life or your career?

It's not unusual to experience periods of unease, anxiety, or feeling lost, either in our personal lives or careers. This form of existential crisis, often viewed as a harbinger of chaos and disruption, is more accurately a reflection of our innate human need to seek meaning, direction, and purpose.

However, in a society that prizes certainty, control, and success, these experiences can often feel isolating and overwhelming, which underscores the importance of seeking help and acknowledging their normalcy.

The complexity of feeling lost and anxious

The sensations of feeling lost or anxious are particularly complex and multifaceted. An individual grappling with these feelings may find it difficult to articulate their experience, given that they tend to touch on aspects of life that are both deeply personal and universally human.

Feeling lost often arises when there's a disconnect between our current reality and the life or career path we envisaged for ourselves. It's akin to being stuck in a thick fog where all familiar landmarks are obscured, leaving us directionless. The world seems alien, leaving us grappling with questions like, "What am I doing?", "Where am I going?" and, most importantly, "Who am I?"

Anxiety, on the other hand, often accompanies the feeling of being lost. It is the constant undercurrent of worry and fear that something is wrong, that we've made a mistake, or that we won't find our way again. This can manifest as restless nights, a racing heart, or an unshakeable sense of dread. Anxiety effectively amplifies the disorientation we feel when we're lost, hindering our ability to find a path forward.

Why feeling lost and anxious is normal

It's important to understand that feeling lost or anxious, despite the discomfort it presents, is a normal part of the human experience. Just as we feel joy in moments of success or sorrow in the face of loss, feelings of anxiety and confusion are natural responses to uncertainty and change.

Historically, humans evolved with a capacity for anxiety as a survival mechanism, alerting us to potential dangers. While modern anxieties often revolve around abstract concerns like job security or personal fulfilment rather than imminent physical threats, the physiological and emotional responses are the same.

Feeling lost, too, is a natural part of our growth and development. Life is a journey of continuous learning and self-discovery, and there will always be times when we question our path and our place in the world. These experiences, while uncomfortable, often serve as catalysts for personal growth and transformation, prompting us to reassess our values, goals, and identities.

The importance of seeking help

Despite the normalcy of these feelings, they can take a severe toll on our mental and emotional well-being if not addressed appropriately. That's why it's so crucial to seek help when these feelings become overwhelming.

Help can come in various forms. Professional help, such as therapy or counselling, can provide a safe and non-judgmental space to navigate these feelings. Therapists and counsellors are trained to offer tools and techniques to manage anxiety and provide guidance as individuals explore new paths in their lives or careers.

Seeking help can also mean reaching out to support networks of family and friends. Sharing our experiences with loved ones can relieve the burden of isolation often associated with these feelings. Social support can provide a sense of belonging and comfort, reminding us that we're not alone in our struggles.

Finally, seeking help can also involve self-help. This could mean engaging in activities that promote mental wellness, such as mindfulness practices, regular exercise or reading self-help literature. In today's digital age, countless resources are available online, including webinars, e-books, or guided meditation apps that can support individuals through periods of anxiety or uncertainty.

Embracing the journey: A conclusion

The feelings of being lost and anxious, while challenging and often disorienting, are not signs of personal failure or weakness. They are, in fact, common human experiences, integral to our journey of growth and self-discovery. The path of life is not always clearly marked, and our careers do not always follow a linear trajectory. Times of uncertainty and fear are simply part of the process, the ebb and flow of a full, rich life.

It is also crucial to remember that these feelings are not enduring states. They are transitory and often signal the onset of change, transformation, and personal development. By reaching out, seeking help, and investing in our mental wellness, we can navigate these challenging periods with resilience and strength.

In conclusion, if you find yourself feeling lost or anxious, either in life or your career, remember that you are not alone. It's okay to ask for help. Embrace the journey, however uncertain, for it is through traversing the wilderness of the unknown that we often find our true selves and our true path. It's okay to feel lost. It's okay to feel anxious. These are not signs of weakness, but indications of growth. They are not mere obstacles, but opportunities for self-discovery and personal transformation.