Rekindling Hope: How to Pivot When Life Feels Like a Dead-End

?"Despite having it all, I feel dead inside." A friend confided, "I've tried everything – volunteering, exercise, mindfulness – but nothing sticks. I'm left feeling hopeless." His distressed tone saddened me, so I delved into this theme, reading books, my usual go-to, and writing this article. My own pivot moment came after a difficult break-up and when I came across Acceptance Commitment Therapy, which gave me the tools to embrace my new beginning and move from that void. Pivoting can lead to new beginnings and a renewed sense of purpose. My friend’s words sparked a deeper exploration of what truly fills that inner void. And what I discovered might surprise you: the path out of emptiness might not be just about purpose, but specifically, about the power of duty and belonging.

Emptiness as a Signal - From MNC Dream to Unfulfilled Reality

Feeling lost and unfulfilled can be daunting, but what if it's a signal from the Universe? What if this emptiness is a chance to pivot and rethink what truly brings us joy, rather than trying simply to fill a void? Think of it as a wake-up call, inviting you to pivot and rediscover something truly profound about yourself. My friend’s courageous vulnerability in sharing his feelings, though scary, was the first step that opened the door to healing for both of us.

I'd been there too – chasing my MNC dream, and landing that high-paying job, left me exhausted and unfulfilled. It felt like a hamster wheel – constantly striving, but never truly arriving. That's when I realized my drive wasn't fueled by money or status, but by deep-seated cravings for external validation, even from people whose opinions didn't truly matter. This emptiness isn't just a void to be filled – it's a catalyst for profound change.

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The Power of Core Values

Self-awareness can be a crucial step in pivoting towards a more fulfilling life. As it allows individuals to align their actions with their values and passions. I dove deeper into my core values, driven by a desire to understand what truly motivated me. I discovered that my passion for making a difference and expressing compassion weren't just ideals, but the very core of my being. While I'd tried volunteering, I discovered I hadn't gone deep enough. I needed to use my unique strengths, like encouraging people to confront limiting beliefs and offering an empathetic ear. I want to help others feel lighter, more connected, and purposeful in their own way.

One simple yet powerful way to explore your core values is to ask yourself, "If today were my last day on earth, what do I wish I had done more of?" " Instead of regrets like "I could have been a master Life Coach," focus on the present: "I am proud to have done my best to become a life coach helping as many souls as I can, that is what matters." Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow. What’s that you really care about and want to give it a shot? A question I constantly ask myself: Who am I becoming? Recently, while mentoring a less privileged youth, I saw the power of purpose firsthand. Helping them find their 'why' wasn't just about giving back to society; it ignited a passion that made the process fulfilling for both of us.

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Viktor Frankl and Logotherapy: The Wisdom of Meaning in Suffering

Frankl's Logotherapy emphasizes finding meaning even in suffering. His experiences surviving concentration camps taught him that purpose is essential, but so is a sense of duty – a responsibility greater than oneself. Through work, relationships, or projects, identify what gives your life purpose and a sense of duty. Embrace challenges, knowing that finding meaning in them, as Frankl did, can help you navigate life's inevitable difficulties. What struck me most was how Frankl's hope to reunite with his wife kept him going. What's the hope you hold on to? For me, it's to serve and be the crutch I wish I had when I was younger.

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The Struggle for Belonging (and How to Overcome It)

Even with my core values in focus, I still struggled with belonging. ?A shift happened when I attended an LGBTQ+ networking event and I met a selfless volunteer dedicated to enriching our Singapore community. His commitment to serving, regardless of background, ignited a renewed sense of belonging within me—revealing that true connections stem from a shared passion for making a meaningful impact. Belonging isn't just about finding similar people; it's about finding people who share your purpose and drive.

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Duty and Belonging: A Pivot Path Navigation

If you're wrestling with emptiness, Viktor E. Frankl’s ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ is a powerful starting point. Finding your purpose isn't just about volunteering; it's about consciously forging a new path and moving away from what feels like a dead end. Here's how to find your path as a quick step-by-step before reading the book:

• Discover Your Core Values: What truly matters to you, deep down? ?It’s a step towards rekindling hope or moving beyond the void. Explore online resources, or you're welcome to join my free webinar on this as well
• Serve With Your Strengths: Look for opportunities to use your talents in ways that light you up. Tools like StrengthsFinder can be a starting point, but even browsing the 34 items can give you valuable clues.
• Focus on Inner Duty: Live your truth and do good in the world, even if no one notices. Start small - What can you do today to serve others beyond thinking about yourself? Who around you sees you as a source of light, and how can you impact their lives significantly?
• Identify a Duty that Resonates: What kind of responsibility would fuel your passion and connect you to others? Seek a responsibility that inspires you
• Find Your Tribe: Actively seek or create communities where your true self is not only recognized but celebrated. Who makes you feel seen? Who can you see in their full potential? Beyond your loved ones, I believe great options are interest groups aligned with your passions. And don’t be afraid to reach out for help and get vulnerable

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Conclusion

The true meaning isn't about constant happiness. It's about finding joy amid the journey, even during struggles. Building a purpose-filled life takes effort, just like going to the gym or raising children. And just as our phones need regular recharging, our sense of purpose and belonging needs consistent nurturing to stay vibrant and fulfilling. ?So, accept the struggle with emptiness not as an end, but as the beginning of a transformative journey towards purpose. Embracing duty and finding a sense of belonging can fundamentally transform your outlook and life direction. So, are you ready to stop running from that emptiness and start uncovering your true path? Share one small step you'll take today to fulfill duty and create a sense of belonging.

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Further Exploration:

If you found this article insightful, these books offer a deeper dive into finding meaning and building resilience. They've shaped my thinking and continue to inspire my personal journey:

• Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
• The Power of Meaning by Emily Esfahani Smith
• Ikigai by Héctor García
• Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett
• A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle

Which book will you explore next? Let me know in the comments below!