“A little part of me dies every time someone tells me they’ve taken a job as a “steppingstone” to something else, when they clearly aren’t invested in it. You have one life to live. Time is valuable. If you’re using steppingstones, you’re also likely relying on someone else’s path or definition of success. Make your own.” 

Soman Chainani

I can remember times in my life when I knew I was on the wrong path. Someone else’s path. It didn’t feel right in my gut. It affected my performance and wellbeing.

Sometimes life happens in a way which may force us to take a “steppingstone” job for a period of time. We all have responsibilities and bills to pay. At least make it one where you can still learn something that will set you up for your desired future path. Usually there is some flexibility within job roles.

What can you do to make it your own? Or what can you be cultivating after hours? What purpose can you tap into? You may find some hidden value you didn’t expect.

Quite often we rationalise to ourselves and others “valid reasons” for why we are following a certain path. But deep down you know you are lying to yourself and it’s making you miserable. 

There is a difference between a steppingstone with purpose and just plain suffering with no direction or plan to get out.

It’s important to listen to those whispers from within. Take actions to steer yourself back on course. It may take some time. 

A lot of the time we don’t know exactly what we really “want”. So try some stuff. Do more of what works, and less of what doesn’t. 

I don’t believe we have one set purpose in life. Many opportunities arise. I believe we should expose ourselves to a range of experiences and pay attention to what resonates. Take action on what stands out and then make it your own.

Cal Newport recommends becoming So Good They Can’t Ignore You as opposed to the flawed advice of “following your passion”.

You will know when you are on the right path.