Stop Obsessing Over "Finding Your Why"

A quick search for "how to get started" will likely yield a plethora of advice, prominently featuring the mantra "FIND YOUR WHY." I’m sharing this perspective because that approach didn’t resonate with me. While identifying your motivation is valuable for sustaining ongoing projects, it often lacks the necessary depth for those of us starting from scratch.

After much contemplation about my true motivations, I eventually just made a choice—and that choice was incorrect. Frequently, the reasons behind your actions may not become evident until you are well into the process. Therefore, consider focusing on your "why not" first.

Explore Without Rushing to Define Your Niche

Numerous successful individuals advocate for pinpointing a niche, asserting that "riches are in the niches." While this is excellent advice for those at an intermediate stage, it can be counterproductive for newcomers. Restricting yourself too early may hinder your growth and lead to burnout.

Instead, remain inquisitive. Select a broad direction (like north) rather than a rigid plan with no flexibility. Commit to this general path, but allow yourself the freedom to explore. If you're interested in finance, dabble in various areas—cryptocurrency, real estate, or even cost-effective meal ideas. The journey should remain engaging, and this variety can lead to unexpected discoveries that enhance your output.

Creating Space for New Opportunities

If you’re like most people today, your schedule is likely quite packed. To maintain consistency with your new pursuit, you may need to release commitments that no longer serve you.

Examine your calendar, emotional state, and daily habits: some aspects of your life may need to be let go as you evolve into someone ready to embark on a new path. While this can be challenging, it is a crucial step toward growth.

Saying "NO" can lead to newfound freedom. Embrace the transformation from your old self to the new.

Embrace the Journey as It Unfolds

As you dive into your new interest—whether it's salsa dancing, building a business, or engaging in community service—allow it to evolve naturally. Don't expect immediate financial gain from passion projects, nor should you confuse enthusiasm with productivity.

This is where your motivations can truly emerge. If your goal is profit, then let passion take a backseat. Conversely, if your primary drive is enjoyment, let everything else follow suit.

Conduct Research and Gather Insights

Once you have a general direction and a sense of what success might look like, it’s time to start collecting information.

While the idea of diving in without preparation can seem appealing, acquiring knowledge about your chosen field can significantly enhance your chances of success. As you learn, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what winning means for you. This phase is about curiosity and exploration.

Pro Tip: After selecting your path, use the research phase to assess your dedication. Are you willing to carve out time to learn about what you claim to want? Let your actions speak for you and establish consistency.

Transitioning to the Discovery Phase

If the research phase is akin to window shopping, the discovery phase is about trying things out. This stage involves testing your ideas in real-world scenarios to see if they resonate with you.

Once you enter this phase, it's time to "FAFO" (F Around and Find Out). This can be one of the most exhilarating and daunting parts of the process, as you have the freedom to explore without major commitments.

For instance, if photography is your passion, consider arranging a photo shoot. If fitness is your goal, maybe try a free week at a local gym. Publish a few articles on Medium to test the waters. Use this time to gauge what fits well for you, without making significant investments.

After identifying what works, you can then make a commitment.

Developing a Strategic Plan

To reach your destination, a clear plan is essential—unless your aim is to remain stagnant. Even then, staying still can be challenging.

Crafting a strategy can enhance your likelihood of success and make the journey more enjoyable. Your plan doesn't need to be overly complicated.

A solid plan includes:

• Flexibility: Understand that most plans will adapt as life unfolds. This is not a failure.
• Skill and Process Orientation: Building a process is far more critical than having the latest tools. Skills are what truly matter.
• Deadlines: The planning stage must eventually conclude so you can move into action. Avoid the pitfall of using planning as a form of procrastination.

Finding Your Flow

Once you've set a clear intention, it’s time to optimize your environment for success. Flow states are highly regarded for their ability to enhance productivity and focus. With practice, you can cultivate these states more regularly.

Creating the right setting for your goal can make your efforts more productive and fulfilling. Remove distractions from your surroundings.

Don't just read this advice—put it into practice. Commit to pursuing your new skill, hobby, or goal seriously. Eliminate anything that could divert your attention when you enter your workspace, and create a conducive environment for achieving flow.

Remember, flow is not merely a feeling; it often exists beyond emotions. Push through your feelings and dedicate focused time to your craft, regardless of the outcome. This approach will increase your chances of experiencing flow.

These guidelines are not rigid rules but rather tools designed to help you break free from stagnation and move toward a brighter future. Stay tuned for more insights, as I will be updating this post weekly. Subscribe to stay informed!