Embrace Uncertainty: Discover Growth in Your 20s
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Chapter 1: The Silver Lining of Leaving Your Comfort Zone
When I reached 26, I took a bold step by leaving my nursing position. Suddenly, I found myself in a realm filled with uncertainties as I navigated life beyond the hospital job that had occupied my last three years. Surprisingly, this unpredictability can stretch you beyond your limits, leading to experiences like returning to your hometown to work as a freelance writer or seizing a job opportunity in a different city. Regardless of your boundaries, here are three compelling reasons to embrace uncertainty in your twenties.
Section 1.1: Broadening Your Horizons
After resigning from my nursing role, I was torn between two distinct paths. One option was to dive into freelance writing and adopt a digital nomad lifestyle. The other was to pursue travel nursing in Canada or the U.S., as I was not yet ready to abandon my chosen career in healthcare.
In the six months post-resignation, I had the opportunity to explore both avenues. I returned to my childhood home in Punta Cana and worked as a freelance writer for Matt D’Avella and Sahil Lavingia, the creators of Slow Growth Academy and Gumroad, respectively. During my stay, I decided to take a break from freelancing, which serendipitously led me to a travel contract near my hometown. They offered free accommodation, transport, and a 55% pay increase compared to my previous salary. It was an incredible offer.
Before stepping out of my comfort zone, these options were merely fantasies in my mind. Suddenly, I had the chance to pursue my dreams, no matter how divergent they appeared. Embracing uncertainty propels you beyond mere contemplation and into action. You won’t truly understand the person you wish to become until you act like that person. This requires an open mind and a willingness to explore possibilities you never envisioned.
Section 1.2: Surprising Yourself
As I embarked on my travel nursing journey, I wrestled with the decision of whether my partner would join me. Since he works remotely, it was feasible for him to accompany me. However, I desired the experience of traveling and working in a new city independently. We agreed that I would settle in first, and he could visit later. This adventure involved a solo drive of 255 km, something I had never done before, and I felt immense pride when I accomplished it.
On my days off as a travel nurse, I wandered through the downtown area, discovering streets I had never known and stopping to listen to street musicians. I found a sense of belonging within myself. Initially, I was apprehensive about taking the job due to the unknowns that lay ahead. I feared disliking the city, the hospital, or the work itself. However, the opposite occurred. I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to extend my contract.
When you embrace the unknown, you uncover your potential and engage in new experiences.
This video discusses the feelings of being lost in your 20s and offers insights into navigating this confusing period.
Subsection 1.2.1: Rediscovering What Matters
One of the key reasons I left my previous nursing position was that I was unhappy with the person I had become. I had grown impatient with patients, their families, and colleagues, and the work environment felt toxic. However, at the new hospital, everyone was kind and supportive, which positively influenced my demeanor. I once again became a compassionate nurse.
During this travel assignment, I rekindled my passion for caring for patients. I realized that not all nursing environments are the same, and there are indeed nurses who genuinely care for their patients and respect their colleagues. I had assumed that all nursing specialties shared the same negative culture, but it seemed specific to my previous hospital.
Embracing uncertainty allows you to discover or rediscover your identity without being tethered to past attachments. You are not required to continue acting as you did before merely because it was familiar.
Chapter 2: The Power of Uncertainty
This video reveals the truth about struggling through your 20s and offers guidance on navigating feelings of confusion and burnout.
Final Thoughts
Uncertainty comes with its share of challenges, but focusing on the positives during difficult times can shift your perspective. This approach not only fosters a more optimistic view of uncertainty but also helps quell the self-doubt that often leads to self-sabotage. Embracing uncertainty doesn’t have to be a fearful experience; it can be empowering.
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