So, you want to start over… Let’s talk about it.
Walking away from the thing you told everyone you wanted.
Shifting course in your late 20s… or your 30s, 40s, or 50s… and realizing the life you planned might not be the life you actually want. I’ve been there… a few times, actually. Trust me.
It’s taboo, isn’t it?
To change your mind.
Admit the dream job doesn’t feel dreamy anymore.
To want more, or different, or quieter, or louder.
To pivot.
But let’s be clear about one thing:
There is no expiration date on becoming more you.
We spend so much time trying to be consistent. Reliable. Logical. We convince ourselves that staying the course is noble, even when the course is draining us. But what if choosing a new path isn’t reckless? What if it’s radical honesty? What if it’s brave?
Because here’s the thing: it takes courage to stay, but it takes even more to leave.
It took me time to realize I was allowed to rewrite my story. That just because I studied one thing, trained in another, and started down a certain career path, didn’t mean I had to finish there. I could listen to the version of myself that was quietly whispering, “This isn’t it. There’s more for you.”
And maybe you’re hearing that whisper too.
Maybe you’re sitting in a job that looks good on paper but feels heavy in your chest. Maybe you’re dreaming about something that seems impractical or inconvenient or too late. Maybe you’re scared of what people will think if you let go of the stable thing for the soul-fulfilling thing.
But what if – stay with me here – what if your career, or life for that matter, wasn’t meant to be a straight line?
What if the detours are the most interesting parts of the map?
Here’s what I’ve learned and am still learning, technically:
You are allowed to change your mind. To grow into someone your past self wouldn’t recognize.
You can pursue what lights you up, even if it doesn’t come with a five-year plan.
Start with a class. A conversation. A coffee with someone who’s doing the thing you wish you were brave enough to try.
Then keep going.
Take the risk.
Build the bridge.
Leap, even if your legs are shaking. Or whatever that quote is.
Fake it till you make it, right???
And when the voice of doubt comes (because it will), remind yourself that staying stuck isn’t safety – it’s just familiar discomfort. And you, my friend, are made for more.
So here’s your permission slip. Or if you’re a bit woo-woo like me, your sign from the Universe.
Your late 20s are nowhere near too late.
30s are not too late.
Your now, whatever age it is, is not too late.
Start over.
Start again.
Just start.
xoxo,
Rae
Browse the blog archives for more vibes — there’s a little bit of everything here.
So many beautiful things I’ve had the opportunity to do. So many incredible people I’ve met along the way. Here’s to the next chapter, and the courage to start over.
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