In the end, what am I going to do with my life?

Life's unexpected twists and turns. Transitions that have been anticipated. Nights of no sleep. This, that, and the other two things all have something in common. This book's most haunting question: "What do you want to be when you grow up?"

Who knows what the rest of my life has in store for me.

Even though I can't answer this question for anyone but myself, I can give those in this situation some essential advice on ensuring their future is as bright as their class valedictorian predicted.

Take the time to draw a map.

We tend to either take the first reasonable option that comes our way or allows the inevitable current of life to choose for us by default when faced with a significant (or even minor) decision. To put it bluntly, it's a bad strategy for achieving your goals. As a result, it isn't easy to know which path to take because of the wide range of options available. If only we had a road map to show us which roads to take and which to avoid, wouldn't that be wonderful?

Before embarking on any new journey, here are five questions that everyone should ask themselves. For example, when faced with a decision, compare the various options with your stated desires, and choose the option which takes you closer (or at least moves you most minor far away from) your stated goals and desires. Alternatively, you can use these questions to guide making decisions and direct actions.

1. What does it mean to me to be successful?

Be extremely detailed. There is no answer to the question, "I want to be rich," because what does the word "rich" mean? Do you have a specific number in mind? Why would this be the case? It's possible that your use of the term "rich" as a synonym for the freedoms and opportunities that you believe only come with money is an example of how you're missing out on other options.

"I want to be rich," depending on the person, could mean many different things, such as "I want to have enough net income to meet my current financial responsibilities without strain, plus have time and money left for travel," or "I want to be able to afford a jet-setting lifestyle in New York City," or "I want to spend four days a week at home with my kids," etc.

You should break down your definition of success into three distinct categories, each reflecting a different facet of what it means to be truly successful in your own eyes. Let's not go overboard with the money issue; things like self-fulfillment, spiritual meaning, and other essential needs and values cannot be solved, acquired, or even affected by money.

When it comes to being successful, most of us don't even know what it means to be successful in our minds. This is one of the biggest roadblocks to success. To make the best decisions, it's essential to know precisely what it means to be successful to you and what your ideal definition of success looks like to you in the real world.

2. What are my non-negotiable requirements in this situation?

Make a list of all the things you believe are necessary for a happy and successful life. All of these and any other legitimate needs that you can think of can cause stress, want, and disempowerment in your life if they are not met. Having a clear idea of what you're willing to sacrifice to get what you wish makes it easier to compare different options.

3. Do I have any ground rules on which I will not budge?

Please make a list of all the things you don't want in your life and cross them out. If the thought of working in a traditional, hierarchical office environment makes you ill, disregard it. Add that to the list if you can't stand the idea of living in a cold climate. If being mocked for your physical appearance or other characteristics makes life unbearable, include that in your notes. Many decisions become much easier to make when you know what you will not tolerate. You can also lay down rules and policies about who and what you will allow into your life and what standards of behavior you will, and won't, tolerate.

4. What are the most important things to me?

Please make a list of your core values and build a life around them that will help you become the person you want to be and enable you to lead the life you desire. Honesty, cleanliness, and a deep appreciation for the natural world are your most prized virtues. As a result, do you prefer to spend time with loved ones in the comfort of your own home? Do you place a higher value on charity than on letting others figure things out for themselves, or vice versa? Making sound decisions necessitates a clear understanding of your core values.

5. When people think of me, what do they think of me for?

When you're gone, what kind of mark do you want to leave behind? What do you want them to say when people look back on your life? Describe what it is that you hope to be known for. What do you want people to remember you for when you're gone? Knowing where you want to go and how you intend to get there makes it much easier to plan your route and keep track of your progress.