The Step Ahead So… What’s next for you?

If you’re a student, you’ve probably heard this question more times than you can count. From parents, relatives, teachers, and even strangers. And if you don’t have a clear answer, it can sting.

It’s not just the question, but the pressure behind it - exams, marks, comparisons, uncertainty. In quiet moments, doubts creep in: What if I choose wrong? What if I’m not good enough? Why do others seem more sorted than me?

The truth is that your career isn’t a one-time choice. It’s a story you write and rewrite as you grow.

Aarav’s story

Aarav, a final-year BCom student, once loved Math and problem-solving. But in college, clarity faded. While his friends had plans for jobs or higher studies, he felt blank. Exams stressed him, comparisons drained him, and every “What’s next?” made him anxious.

One evening, he tried something simple. He listed three things he genuinely enjoyed: helping juniors with projects, sharing ideas in group discussions, and reading about business growth. That small exercise gave him direction. Slowly, he discovered his interest in management. The real shift was not just finding a career option, but seeing himself as someone still shaping his story, not lost in it.

Meera’s story

Meera faced a different struggle. Her parents wanted her to study engineering, believing it offered stability. But her heart leaned toward literature and writing. She loved journaling and editing essays for friends.

The conflict tore her apart. Choosing English felt selfish. Guilt and anxiety kept her awake at night, doubting her worth.

In this confused state, she began journaling daily and started working with a life coach. Over five sessions, she noticed a pattern in what energised her - creativity, helping others express themselves, and freedom to explore. With that clarity and encouragement, she opened to her parents. To her surprise, they listened. They were concerned but didn’t shut her down. Over time, they agreed to let her try.

Today, Meera is building her path in content writing and communications, balancing passion with practical plans. Her story shows it isn’t always family versus self, but about building a bridge where both sides meet.

What Career Construction Theory teaches

Mark Savickas’ Career Construction Theory explains that careers aren’t fixed decisions, but evolving stories. Three key ideas can help students:

Life Themes: Look for patterns that always show up, like helping others, solving problems, or creating something new.

Adaptability: Careers involve setbacks. Staying flexible and learning from mistakes builds confidence.

Vocational Personality: Knowing whether you thrive on brainstorming or structure helps you choose work that energizes you.

The good news? No story is ever final. You can always explore, adjust, and rewrite your path.

What to do when stress shows up

Stress is natural, but how you respond makes a difference. Try these small shifts:

Exams didn’t go well? This is one chapter, not my whole book.

Worried about the future? Ask: What excites me right now?

Comparing with friends? Every story has its own pace.

Too many choices? Which option feels lighter?

💡 Reflection prompts:

What’s one thing I’ve always enjoyed outside academics?

When was the last time I felt proud, and what was I doing?

If fear wasn’t holding me back, what would I try first?

When to seek help?

Feeling lost or stressed is common. But if it starts to affect sleep, appetite, mood, or hope, it may be more than stress - early signs of anxiety or depression. In such cases, professional support matters.

Therapists help with deeper emotional struggles and healing.

Life coaches guide you in the present, helping with clarity, confidence, and practical next steps.

Both can support you - depending on what you need. And if you’re unsure, simply starting a conversation can make the load feel lighter.

You don’t have to figure everything out today. Just one small step is enough. And if the weight feels heavy, remember - you don’t have to carry it alone. Coaches and therapists at iDare are here to walk with you, listen to you, and help you move forward with confidence.

Image Credits: Pexels