Finding Joy in the Unexpected: A Lesson from Getting Lost.

The other day, I got lost in the bush—and no, not that kind of bush ????? ??.

I had veered off my AllTrails route, my phone battery was low, and I had Coco (my little princess who, naturally, needed carrying). For a moment, I found myself thinking, “This is ridiculous, how am I going to get back on track?”

And then something unexpected happened—I realised I was having the best fun I’d had in ages.

At first glance, this might seem like a simple story about getting off track (literally), but in that moment, something deeper clicked. It transported me back to being a kid, when adventure meant freedom, and joy didn’t need a reason. I used to get lost on purpose—roaming through woods, crawling under bushes, and diving headfirst into curiosity, imagination, and pure fun. Back then, there were no deadlines, no expectations, and no pressure to be anything other than myself.

That moment in the bush reminded me of something we often forget as adults—joy doesn’t come from ticking off to-do lists, chasing promotions, or collecting achievements. It comes from being present, letting go of expectations, and simply allowing yourself to be.

How Does This Relate to Your Career?

In our professional lives, it’s easy to get stuck in the loop of striving for the next big thing—chasing goals, climbing the ladder, or hitting targets. But in the pursuit of success, how often do you allow yourself to just enjoy what you do? When was the last time you felt genuinely alive in your role—sparked by creativity, curiosity, or even a little adventure?

We often think happiness will come after the next achievement. But what if joy could be found right where you are—by reconnecting with that same sense of curiosity and play you had as a child?

I learned this the hard way. Even on my healing journey, I took things so seriously—thinking that fixing myself was the key to feeling complete. I got caught up in the rituals, the tools, and the labels, forgetting that true fulfilment doesn’t come from what you do—it comes from being at ease with who you are.

The Real Lesson? Stop Enduring, Start Enjoying.

Your career shouldn’t feel like survival mode—it should be something that fuels your creativity, joy, and sense of purpose. That doesn’t mean abandoning responsibility, but it does mean making space for play, spontaneity, and genuine enjoyment in everyday moments.

So, here’s my invitation: Do something that reconnects you with that spark—whether it’s taking a walk without a destination, trying something creative, or simply giving yourself permission to enjoy the work you’re already doing.

And if you’re ready to unlock deeper levels of happiness and fulfilment in your life and career, let’s explore what’s holding you back.

?? Book your free Emotion & Mindset MOT session here

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Here’s to finding joy in the journey—whether you’re on track or totally lost in the bush. ??

With purpose and joy, Michaela