Growing up, I had the opportunity to try a bunch of different things: swimming, piano, basketball, cheerleading, volleyball...and yet, nothing stuck. I'm someone who's always been interested in everything, but committed to nothing. A free spirit, to a fault. Now that I'm 20 (and technically vintage), I look back on my younger, formative years and wish that I had just picked something. I mean, imagine how good I'd be at that one thing right now!
But I know myself. I'm someone who flourishes on freedom and variety. I like to grow and succeed for me, on my own terms. I'm still trying it all out -- and loving every moment of it.
There's this stigma that, by the time you're an adult, you should already have your "thing" and I don't think that's true.
Here are a few ways to find your passion or the next great adventure.
Do something you've never done.
Take a hip-hop class, sing karaoke, join a club (or make one), skinny dip, learn to play guitar, explore a different part of your city, learn to sew, go scuba diving, climb a tree, take up golf. The list is endless.
Do not fear failure.
Don't let the fear of failure stop you from trying something new. I'll tell you right now, you'll probably be lousy at whatever you try. And you know what? That's totally OK! How could you possibly be skilled at something you've never done before? We are often embarrassed by our short comings, when we should use them as an opportunity to learn and grow. Life is too short to let fear make decisions for you. Go forth and be brave!
Don't let age restrict you.
You've heard it a thousand times, age is but a number. Take heed in that. You are never "too old" to try something new and fun, and you certainly aren't "too old" to find your passion. Samuel L. Jackson didn't earn his first movie role until he was 46. Stan Lee didn't release his first successful comic book until he was 40. Louise Bourgeois didn't become a famed painter until she was 78.
You haven't missed your chance.