What to Do When You Don't Know What to Do With Your Life
"Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous.Yes, wait patiently for the Lord." —Psalm 27:14 (NLT)
Learning God's will and purpose, waiting on His timing (Psalm 27:14), and figuring out what to do with your life are all things that require a lot of patience. The Bible calls patience a "fruit of the Spirit" (Galatians 5:22), which means that patience develops in us through the Holy Spirit.
Waiting on guidance from God is almost always difficult. And when it's waiting on big "life goals" things like what to after graduation, if you should go to college, what career to pursue, or future relationships, it's even more tricky. But our patience in these times can show the unbelieving world that we have faith in God's timing, God's plan, and His love for us, because we believe He knows best.
If you find yourself in a period of transition (or about to enter one), there is no reason to fearful at that "stuck" feeling. Transitions are a regular (albeit uncomfy) part of life, and we can use that time wisely while we wait on answers from God or from that college or job, or for inspiration to hit, or for clarity about whatever opportunity might be next.
Making Good Use of Time
"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." —Ephesians 5:15-17
This world has so much distraction to offer. Some of those things can be nice and help us relax, and some of it can take us away from having any focus at all. We don't want to slip into a life of laziness or apathy about the future. But we don't want to live in anxious fear about it either. Neither is ideal, right?
The best thing to do is to make good use of the time you have during this span of waiting or transition. Study God's Word, keep talking to Him, and keep worshipping Him. He's still at work in your life—even if it feels like you're stuck in one place (Romans 8:28).
Practical Tips for the Waiting Times
Here are some ideas of how to use this period of your life for your benefit and the benefit of those around you.
- Develop your skills NOW. Take the things you've enjoyed in the past, and try them again. See if anything sparks your passion once more. Explore what you like and stretch yourself.
- Serve others! God has gifted you with unique abilities and skills (1 Peter 4:10). Use those talents and gifts to serve others (Galatians 5:13).
- Try new things! Even if you feel awkward or silly at first, trying new things can help you learn more about yourself and others. You might even discover something you never thought you'd be good at! Remember what you're most passionate about but leave room for new passions.
- Pick up the slack in your church. Serving in your local church is one of the best ways to develop your spiritual gifts and practice the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Contact your church to see what positions are available for someone your age.
- Remember your relationships with others. It's super easy to get hyper-focused on our own self-improvement and neglect everyone else. Healthy relationships are an important part of life, and we should make time to care for and check in with our friends and family (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
- Examine yourself. Keep an eye on your head and heart. Check in with yourself regularly. Times of waiting or transition can often lead to feelings of sadness, depression, or anxiety. Caring for your mental health during this time should also be a priority.
When you're in a period when you don't know what to do with your life or you're not sure what your life goals "should" be, try to see this time not as an obstacle but as an opportunity. God has great things planned for you already. Those things will come. In the meantime, be wise with your waiting—learn new things, serve others, keep connected to God and your loved ones, and take care of yourself.
"Those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.They will run and not grow weary.They will walk and not faint." —Isaiah 40:31 (NLT)
ALSO SEE:
- Does God only help those who help themselves?
- What does the Bible say about patience?
- How can I know God's will for my life?
- How can I discover God's purpose for my life?
- What are spiritual gifts?
- How can I tell what my spiritual gifts are?
- What should I do after graduation?
- How should I plan for college?
- How do I listen for God's voice?
- What does the Bible say about laziness?
- What does the Bible say about procrastination?
- Should I be looking for my future spouse?
- Why does life feel pointless?
- Why isn't God answering my prayer?
TL;DR
When you're in a period when you don't know what to do with your life or you're not sure what your life goals "should" be, try to see this time not as an obstacle but as an opportunity. God has great things planned for you already (Romans 8:28). Those things will come. In the meantime, be wise with your waiting—learn new things, serve others, keep connected to God and your loved ones, and take care of yourself.
Writer/Editor: Catiana (Cat)
Cat is the web producer and editor of 412teens.org. She is known as "412teens" on the 412teens Discord. She loves audiobooks, feeding the people she cares about, and using Christmas lights to illuminate a room. When Cat is not cooking, gardening, or practicing creativity, she enjoys spending time with her two adult kids, six socially-awkward cats, and her amazing friend-amily.
Vlogger: Melinda
Melinda loves making music that helps people "feel things they've forgotten about" and likes talking about things that ignite wonder and encourage emotional/mental/spiritual health. She enjoys learning and discussing ways that people relate and how we can best take care of ourselves.
