Fish Out Of Water | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

Fish Out Of Water

What do you do if you catch yourself floundering?

16
Fish Out Of Water
Ethan Reimer

The worst feeling in the world may be being utterly disenchanted with everything. You might find yourself going through the motions because somehow you've convinced yourself this is what you need to do to get where you want in life. And yet, that dream you cling to seems so far away. You avoid any instance that begs an answer to the question "What are you going to do with your life?" There might be several things you want to achieve, but if you find yourself floundering, the truth is you don't know what you're going to do. You may not even know what you want to do, or if you're on a path that is right for you. Before you are completely embittered by this harsh reality, know that the opportunity for adventure is upon you and it can greatly change your perspective of this situation.

If you find yourself floundering, the first and most important thing you should do is become comfortable with ambiguity. Admitting to yourself that you don't know what you want to do with your life will give you freedom in finding your own way. There are many options; embrace all that interest you. Once you have stopped lying to yourself and your family with some rehearsed five year plan, begin casting a far and wide net. Meeting anyone and everyone you can will increase your chances of finding those doors of opportunity that stand before you and your manifested dreams. This also means you'll have to get used to stepping outside of your comfort zone by joining a variety of communities. You'll meet different people here who hold insights and inspirations you just might jive with. When you expand your network you will learn new and interesting things about yourself as well as others. These new found characteristics will act as signals along your meandering path toward a sense of purpose.

Not all is roses and rainbows on this path, in fact, there should be several failures and you should prepare yourself to fail like a champion. Life can throw a mean punch every now and then, but the sooner you learn to take a hit, the better. The point here is, do not become so discouraged by failure that you spend the rest of your life alone, binge watching Netflix.

When you entertain all your ideas, you will find that some just aren't going to be a reality for you. If you are not alright with this, then you must keep trying for it. Those who try for it will always find a way. Dreams do exist as realities but it is of no obligation to the universe to create these realities for you. You are a meaning making creature, and the best thing you can do for yourself is put in the work, and find what makes you happy.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

9651
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

4262
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

3116
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

2807
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments