What do I want?

Some weeks before putting this together, I read an article by Olufolake Zion about Career Non-Negotiables, and I really loved it. As I went through what she shared about her own non-negotiables, I saw striking similarities between what she valued and what I look for in a career.

Naturally, I shared my thoughts on what my non-negotiables were, and her reply came back that simply said:

"...you know what you want."

That response warmed my heart, sincerely—but it also got me thinking. How many of us really know what we want when it comes to our careers? And even beyond that, do we truly know what we want in life?

Often, we find ourselves chasing goals that society has set for us—expectations from our parents, our friends, our schools, and the wider world. We rarely take a step back to ask: What do I actually want?

I know it’s not easy. Figuring this out isn’t a straight line—it’s messy, evolving, and deeply personal. And that’s exactly why I’m writing this to you today.

So, let’s take a moment. Ask yourself: "What do I want?"

Don't be shy, don't run from it, say it:

• If I’m being sincere, do I really enjoy this 9-to-5 grind, or would I thrive running my own business?  
• Is the idea of entrepreneurship my thing, or would it just be better if I went back to a traditional 9-to-5?  
• What kind of person do I want to share my life with?  
• What kind of job will give me the most fulfillment?  
• What kind of home feels right for me?  
• What do I want my day to look like?

Just sincerely ask yourself these simple, harmless questions—and answer as honestly as possible.

These questions may seem straightforward and deep at the same time, but they're the starting point for true clarity. Perhaps you have an idea of what you want, but you hesitate out of fear of being selfish. Maybe a little selfishness would make the world a better place—imagine a world where people do what they love, enjoy doing it, and find fulfillment in every aspect of their lives.

The journey to understanding what you really want begins with asking yourself these tough questions. When you peel away the layers of what’s expected and what’s conventional, you may just discover a path that feels uniquely yours.

Take your time. Reflect. And be honest with yourself—because clarity starts with knowing what you really want in life.

Here's how to go about it:

• Get your pen and notepad
• Ask yourself: What do I truly want?  
• Focus on one area of your life
• And just write, sincerely and honestly

Let go of what you think you should want, and focus on what your heart is whispering. It might be something big like a career change or as simple as dedicating more time to a hobby that sets your soul on fire.

Remember, clarity isn’t about overthinking. It’s about letting your heart speak freely. Once you know what you want, you begin to see the path forward, one step at a time.

Cheers,  

Gee