That feeling of “there is something here”…

Let’s talk about that niggling vague feeling. The one you can’t seem to shake off. Or shake away. Or dismiss for too long.

“I’ve always wanted to write.”

“I’m an introvert. I connect well with words.”

“I’ve always wanted to be outdoors.”

“I’ve always dreamed of having my own business.”

“I’d loooooooove to cook like that.”

“I wish I could just pack up my bags and go travel.”

“I’ve been wanting to do this for years.”

Some of us would have already done it the moment that the urge came up. For the many of us (myself included), we just kept pondering away, keeping whatever-it-is at bay, or just ignore it a bit longer.

What if you took a longer peek?

If you have always wanted to <write or insert your thing>:

• Why do you like writing?
• What would you like to write about?
• What excites you about writing?
• What do you aspire to do with your writing? Or to experience?
• If you are going to write your greatest piece of writing ever, what would it be like?

What if you stayed with that niggling feeling a second longer?

If you have been wanting to do <this> for years:

• What is the story you are telling yourself NOT to do it? “I am too busy.” “This is silly - it won’t make me any money or get me anywhere.” “This is a hobby for later.”
• What is the dread if you DID do it? “I am going to feel stupid.” “People will judge me.” “What if I found out I am really talented like I’ve always secretly thought I am?”
• What is going to happen if this passion burst out into the open? “I am going to fall apart in an instant.” “I fear the invincible power that would come out.” “I am going to start crying.”

This niggling vague feeling has most probably been with you for a while. You may have remembered that fateful event that created it — being delightfully transported to a new world you never thought would exist for you at the age of 38 (thank you J.K. Rowling). Or you may not. Or you may have dabbled in it when you were younger. Jumping feet in — without a care in the world. And then “sobered up” when you got older. Or you may have googled something somewhat related somewhat similar to that vague feeling just last week. And that feeling is STILL here!

Some people call this niggling vague feeling:

• Your calling
• What draws you
• Your desire
• Your soul’s desire
• Your zone of genius

For those who ventured in and explored their desires, they usually feel this sense of lightness, this sense of ease. At times, it can even become a part of their purpose, careers or businesses.

I believe we are all born artists. Our brush strokes, the medium we prefer, our artistic vision are all unique different. That specific desire to create or to connect is always on, always in us. You may desire to write. She may desire to be close to animals. They may desire to build businesses. That desire is as unique as your owning the uniqueness of your fingerprints. It is simply a given.

If you have a day job, (kids) and this niggling vague feeling, I invite you to stay with the feeling a bit longer today.

P.S. Believe it or not, knowing what pulls you in is one of the simplest ways to know if you are on your “right” track to your career pivot.

P.P.S. Comment below “YES” or “NO” if this niggling vague feeling seems familiar to you. Your nudges guide me in breaking down the mystique of career clarity!