[SynergicAdvent]

Hello everyone.

First of all, I'm sorry for creating a thread just because of my own problems, but I really feel that this is the only place where I can go with this confusion and that will probably help me.

When you were a teen, did you feel very confused about what to do with the rest of your life? Were you afraid of making the wrong choices and end up doing something that would not allow you to fulfill your purpose in life? And did you feel that no one would understand if you talked to them?

Right now, I'm almost 17, I just ended my junior year and I have one year (or less than one year) left to decide what to do with the rest of my life. The problem is, I have absolutely no idea about what I want. Well, I do, a bit, but let me explain.

I have an interest in astronomy. So I've thought about becoming an astrophysicist. Also, I have very good mathematical skills, which would be very useful. However, if I become an astrophysicist, what will happen to this higher purpose in life I think I have?

What's this purpose I'm talking about? Pretty much what every other INFJ goes through, a deep desire to contribute to others' welfare, a desire to make this world a better place. I think that for most of us this is a very strong desire, I don't know for the rest of you, but for me it is incredibly strong. I feel that I was born to make this world a better place. I think that that's the only way that I'm going to be able to fulfill my purpose and be happy. But I don't know how to achieve that.

My other option is psychology. I'm very interested in the way people think, in understanding the depth of the human mind, and helping others by becoming a psychologist. However, there are a few problems here. If I do become a psychologist, I don't know if I'll be able to make this world a much better place, or only an almost insignificant difference. Also, I'm not sure if I think this too, but other people tell me that it would be a waste of my amazing mathematical skills (they're pretty good).

So... I don't know how to fulfill this purpose in life I feel I have. I don't know what to choose to study, I don't know what to do. I'm afraid of making the wrong choice.

1. Astrophysicist
2. Psychologist
3. Anything completely different (suggestions are welcome (in fact, please suggest other things)

What do you think? You guys are probably the only ones who can understand this...



Again, sorry for that long post.

[Jawz]

The only thing I'm going to suggest to you is to follow your heart in matters of career. We being INFJ's take on personas and roles that are assigned to us. Already, I can see that others are having an influence on you - and your seeking advice suggests to me that the influence is pulling you in one direction - whereas you yourself want to go in another.

I can't really give you career advice (because I'm not qualified) - but I can tell you that it's ok to be confused. I had a similar goals when I was 17 (I wanted to change the corporate structure of the world - and help people by ridding the world of sweatshops and child labor) ... well, suffice to say, 13 years later I'm no closer to the dream than when I was at 17. But I've followed my heart - and ultimately, I'm happy with my career choices and especially with my current job - because I studied what I wanted, am living where I want, and am using my knowledge to change people's lives 1 person at a time. And that makes me happy.

I would say that it's ok to be confused at 17. But it's definitely not ok to be influenced in decisions that impact your life. Son, YOU have to live with the consequences of what you choose to do with your life - others are great for a little advice now and then, but take it with a grain of salt - and accept the advice which resonates with what you really want to do - not what you can do.

I know I haven't been of much help. Putting the onus back on you like that. But you really have to follow your interests and combine them with your ambitions.

[HolyDiver]

Kosmos,

I think it's incredible, and at the same time, predictable that your story reminds me of my own start.

You are awesome! Your generation will take us to a future I can only dream of, and after reading your words.. I know you feel like there's a lot on your plate to decide. Far be it from me to stick my short arm in your long pocket, and I'm not qualified in any way to give career advice.

But honestly, your own words suggest this to me:

Astrophysicist + Psychology

People will need help getting across the universe, help with their very spirits.

Thanks for this post. You'll make your own path, you always do.