Are you feeling lost, unsure of your path, and questioning everything about your life and career?
First things first: take a slow, deep breath. Come back to this moment.
You're not alone, and it's completely normal to feel this way.
At Vet Empowered, we understand the unique pressures and expectations that come with being a veterinary professional. The path to becoming a vet is often so focused and goal-oriented that when we finally achieve it, we can find ourselves asking, "Now what?" Or, "Is this really what I want?"
Step 1: Release the Judgement on "I have no idea what I want"
Let's start by taking all that judgment off the table. There's no rule that says you need to have your entire life figured out at any point, let alone right now. The expectation that we should always know exactly what we want is not only unrealistic but can be downright harmful.
Most of the frustration you're feeling likely stems from not knowing and feeling as though you should. This pressure to have all the answers can actually block us from finding them. It's a bit like trying to force yourself to fall asleep – the harder you try, the more elusive it becomes.
Yeah, but ladies, how do I release judgement?
Releasing judegment is a practice that requires patience and self-compassion. Start by becoming aware of the judgemental thoughts – both towards yourself and others. When you catch yourself judging, pause and take a deep breath. Ask yourself, "Is this thought helping or hurting me?" Often, you'll find it's the latter. Try reframing these thoughts with curiosity instead.
For example, instead of "I should know what I want by now," try "I wonder what I might discover about myself today?" Remember, judgement often comes from a place of fear or insecurity. Acknowledge these feelings with kindness. Practice self-compassion by speaking to yourself as you would to a dear friend. Mindfulness techniques can also help you observe your thoughts without attaching to them. Over time, as you consistently practice awareness and compassion, you'll find it easier to let go of judgement and embrace a more open, accepting mindset.
The Present Moment is Your Bestie
When we're so caught up in self-criticism and the belief that we should know what we want, we often miss out on the present moment.
And here's the irony: it's in these present moments that we often find clues about what truly matters to us.
Try this: Instead of asking yourself what you want in life (a pretty overwhelming question!), ask yourself what you enjoy about this moment. What made you smile today? What task did you lose yourself in? These small insights can be powerful indicators of what you truly value.
Outgrowing Old Dreams
Here's something we don't talk about enough: It's okay to outgrow what you thought you wanted.
Maybe becoming a vet or vet nurse was your dream since childhood, but now you're not so sure. That doesn't mean you made a mistake – it means you're growing, evolving, and learning more about yourself.
At Vet Empowered, we've seen countless professionals realise that their current path no longer aligns with their values or desires.
And guess what? That's not just okay – it's an opportunity for growth and new adventures.
Look Inward, Not Outward
In today's social media-driven world, it's easy to get caught up in comparing our lives to others. But here's the truth: someone else's path, no matter how shiny it looks on Instagram, is not necessarily the right path for you.
Instead of looking outward, try spending more time being present with yourself.
What lights you up?
What drains you?
What are your core values?
What sparks your curiosity?
Who do you enjoy spending time around?
These are the questions that will lead you to a more authentic and fulfilling life, regardless of what anyone else is doing.
Books are great, but spending time exploring ourselves is more powerful.
Trust the Process (But Don't Just Wait Around)
Here's the tricky part: while it's important to trust that clarity will come, you also can't just sit back and wait for it to magically appear.
Finding what you want in life is often a process of experimentation. You're a scientist, you can do this.
Try new things.
Say yes to opportunities that intrigue you, even if they're outside your comfort zone.
Volunteer, take a class, pick up a new hobby.
Each experience, whether you love it or hate it, teaches you something about yourself and what you want (or don't want) in life.
A Personal Note from Us
Did you know that neither of the Vet Empowered founders ever saw themselves starting this company? We were vets, just like you, trying to figure out our path.
It was through our own paths of self-discovery and growth that Vet Empowered was born.
Claire often says "If someone told me I needed a life coach, I'd have been positively offended!!" - but will explain how much it changed her life.
Katie was geared up for being an internal medicine specialist.
The point is, you never know where your path might lead. The uncertainty you're feeling right now? It might just be the beginning of an incredible new chapter in your life.
Moving Forward
If you're feeling stuck and unsure about what you want in life, here are a few steps you can take:
Practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness you'd offer a friend in this situation. We know it feels weird at first, be gentle.
Start a journal. Write about your thoughts, feelings, and the moments that bring you joy or fulfilment.
Try new things. Say yes to experiences that intrigue you, even if they seem unrelated to your current path.
Connect with others. Talk to fellow vets, mentors, or a coach about your feelings. Sometimes, verbalising our thoughts can bring clarity. (Psst: check out the Vet Empowered Signature Programme!)
Focus on your values. What's truly important to you? Let these guide your decisions rather than external expectations.
Remember, it's okay not to have all the answers right now. Life is a journey of continuous discovery, and not knowing exactly what you want doesn't make you any less valuable or capable.
At Vet Empowered, we're here to support you on this journey. Whether you decide to stay in clinical practice, explore other areas of veterinary medicine, or venture into completely new territory, we've got your back.
You've got this, and we're here if you need us.
Want to know more about coaching in general? Nab our guide here.
Comments