5 Ways to Know You're on the Right Path

There are so many different paths out there that seem to lead you in the right direction – but which one is the right one? What if the path you’re on now isn’t taking you where you want to go? And how can you know if it’s time to make a change, or to keep going with your plan?

1) IF IT FEELS RIGHT

Entrepreneurship is all about taking risks and putting yourself out there, but that doesn’t mean you should turn yourself into a human pinball. Make sure your idea is right for you—and will take you where you want to go—before taking that first step. Ask yourself if it feels right: If it does, chances are it will work out in your favor.

2) HAVE OTHERS NOTICED A CHANGE IN YOU?

Because you may be too close to see your own growth, it can be helpful to get feedback from others. Ask friends and family members how they’ve noticed a change in you or whether they’ve observed any differences in your attitude, health, or habits. If others have noticed a change for the better, it could mean that you are on track with your goals. If not, re-evaluate whether you need to make some changes in order for things to progress. Whatever is happening with those around you can help validate that what you’re doing is working.

3) ARE YOUR VALUES ALIGNED WITH WHAT YOU ARE DOING?

Before you can know whether or not you’re on the right path, it’s important to examine your values. Are your actions in line with what you believe? Think about how many hours of your life each day are spent doing things that aren’t necessarily what you want to be doing. In order for us to make our daily tasks feel like a natural extension of who we are and what we stand for, our actions need to reflect who we really are inside. Otherwise, every day will feel like an act of self-betrayal; and over time, that kind of dissonance will destroy us. We may fool others into thinking we’re happy when deep down inside there’s a little voice telling us something else entirely.

4) HAVE YOU LEARNED SOMETHING?

Whatever you’re trying to accomplish in life, there will be doubts. There will be times when it seems like your daydream is impossible. But if you remain focused, keep moving forward and don’t take your eyes off your goal, you’ll get there. The person who understands how they feel and why they want something are always better at getting that thing than someone who doesn’t understand themselves. It may not make sense now, but at some point everything makes sense and when things click into place you will know where your passion lies and what steps need to be taken next for you to reach your goals.

5) DO YOU CARE ABOUT MAKING AN IMPACT?

Anyone can say they care about making an impact—the real question is whether or not you really do. If you want to know that you’re truly pursuing your passion, ask yourself if your work makes a difference. Do you find joy in sharing what you’ve learned with others? Are your skills being put to good use and helping others succeed? Even with no fame or fortune attached, knowing that what you’re doing matters will give your efforts more purpose. Feeling like you’re making a positive difference at work is one of life's great sources of satisfaction and self-confidence, so take some time today and answer these questions honestly: How much do I enjoy my job? Why am I doing it? What am I hoping to accomplish?

CONCLUSION

While your friends and loved ones can give you valuable feedback, no one knows better than you whether or not you’re really on track with your goals. However, there are ways to know that you’re indeed taking steps toward what you want—whether it’s a relationship, job offer, degree, etc.

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