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How does someone with little to no motivation choose their career path?
I'm a junior in high school, and while I have an interest in writing and many other kinds of art, I have little to no motivation to actually pursue these things or work at them, especially when it's such an uncertain field. I'm not sure I should bother trying to pursue something I like, and really, I have no desire to pursue anything at all. Any advice?
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18 answers
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✨ Danuta’s Answer
It's great that you're being honest. Many people feel uncertain about the future, especially when considering the entire future.
Motivation is something you build, not something you have. It starts with taking action or finding inspiration. Try setting a timer for a few minutes and write whatever comes to mind. Doodle something random. Read a short story or poem and rewrite the ending. You don't need to feel motivated to begin; you need to start. Researching universities you might want to visit could also spark the motion... and then schedule time to visit them.
If you're unsure about pursuing anything, talking to a counselor or a trusted adult can be really helpful. I have two children: one chose the path and started a Master's this year, and the other changed paths three times by their second year in university. Everyone is different, and it's important to know you can always change direction. Nothing is final until it is! Being flexible and open to change is the key to everything.
I am a designer, and every project is a chain of changes, iterations, and reworks, and sometimes I scratch it and start over, and never is anything perfect! Always something could be changed.
You're allowed to explore, change your mind, and try new things. The idea that you need a clear path at 16 or 17 is a myth. Most people figure it out much later and continue to grow. Imagine yourself at 30 or 40 with a job. What would you regret not trying when you were younger? What do you wish you'd given a chance?
Sometimes the best answer to "Should I bother?" is "Yes, just enough to see what happens."
Good luck to you!
Motivation is something you build, not something you have. It starts with taking action or finding inspiration. Try setting a timer for a few minutes and write whatever comes to mind. Doodle something random. Read a short story or poem and rewrite the ending. You don't need to feel motivated to begin; you need to start. Researching universities you might want to visit could also spark the motion... and then schedule time to visit them.
If you're unsure about pursuing anything, talking to a counselor or a trusted adult can be really helpful. I have two children: one chose the path and started a Master's this year, and the other changed paths three times by their second year in university. Everyone is different, and it's important to know you can always change direction. Nothing is final until it is! Being flexible and open to change is the key to everything.
I am a designer, and every project is a chain of changes, iterations, and reworks, and sometimes I scratch it and start over, and never is anything perfect! Always something could be changed.
You're allowed to explore, change your mind, and try new things. The idea that you need a clear path at 16 or 17 is a myth. Most people figure it out much later and continue to grow. Imagine yourself at 30 or 40 with a job. What would you regret not trying when you were younger? What do you wish you'd given a chance?
Sometimes the best answer to "Should I bother?" is "Yes, just enough to see what happens."
Good luck to you!
I am cheering for your beautiful feature. Go get it, one step at a time!
✨ Danuta Chapin, MFA
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
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Updated
Paul’s Answer
There are several things that you can do in order to determine what you want in regards to a future major or career path.
Remember, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into a major.
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the college career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to start as an undecided student and change your major as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation related to that major. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Remember, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into a major.
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the college career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to start as an undecided student and change your major as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation related to that major. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
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orlando’s Answer
Hi, a short answer to your question. Usually a person knows their passions early, it's simple what do you like to do? The thing is to make sure you like what your work path is because your gonna do it for a while, love what you do and its not work and you will get up in the morning with plenty of motivation! Good luck.
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Madeleine’s Answer
If you have an interest in art and writing, but aren't sure if you're passionate about it, don't worry. You can explore these fields and see where they lead you. If you're unsure how to start, consider teaching. Once you complete 90 credit hours in college, you can try substitute teaching. This might help you discover a new passion.
In college, you'll have the chance to explore many paths, including art and writing. It's normal not to know exactly what you want to do, so you're not alone. If teaching doesn't feel right for you, that's perfectly okay. You might find the book "What Color is Your Parachute" helpful as it explores different careers.
I love writing and art and have enjoyed working with artists to combine my poetry with visual art. Most of my writing has been in journalism, which has changed a lot over the years. If you want to pursue art and writing, being creative is important. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan.
Wishing you all the best in your future adventures!
In college, you'll have the chance to explore many paths, including art and writing. It's normal not to know exactly what you want to do, so you're not alone. If teaching doesn't feel right for you, that's perfectly okay. You might find the book "What Color is Your Parachute" helpful as it explores different careers.
I love writing and art and have enjoyed working with artists to combine my poetry with visual art. Most of my writing has been in journalism, which has changed a lot over the years. If you want to pursue art and writing, being creative is important. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan.
Wishing you all the best in your future adventures!
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Sophie. When you're low on motivation, it's important to start small. You don't need to know your exact career yet. Try exploring your interests in low-pressure ways. For example, if you enjoy writing, you could start a journal, blog, or write short stories just for yourself. Don’t worry about making it perfect or turning it into a career right away. The goal is to see if you enjoy the process, not just the idea of it.
Also, motivation often comes after action, not before. Waiting to feel inspired may leave you stuck. Try doing small tasks, like researching creative careers, joining a club, or talking to someone who works in a field you're curious about. Sometimes, just taking one step forward can give you the momentum you need.
And most importantly, it's ok to not have it all figured out. Many adults switch careers multiple times. Right now, you need to focus on learning more about yourself, what you like, what you don't, what you value. That's just as important as picking a job. Give yourself time and space. You're not behind; you're just beginning. Wishing you all the best.
Also, motivation often comes after action, not before. Waiting to feel inspired may leave you stuck. Try doing small tasks, like researching creative careers, joining a club, or talking to someone who works in a field you're curious about. Sometimes, just taking one step forward can give you the momentum you need.
And most importantly, it's ok to not have it all figured out. Many adults switch careers multiple times. Right now, you need to focus on learning more about yourself, what you like, what you don't, what you value. That's just as important as picking a job. Give yourself time and space. You're not behind; you're just beginning. Wishing you all the best.
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Andrew’s Answer
It's perfectly okay to feel unsure or unmotivated about your career path right now. Many high school juniors and even adults feel this way. You're still learning about yourself, what you care about, and what excites you, so don't stress about having all the answers yet.
A helpful step is to chat with your school's guidance counselor. They can guide you through different options, connect you with resources, and suggest career or personality tests that match your interests and strengths. Seeing a few possibilities can really help things start to make sense.
If you're still unsure after high school, think about taking a gap year to work, travel, or volunteer, or consider an Exploratory Studies major in college. These options give you time to discover more about yourself before choosing a specific direction.
Remember, you don't need to have everything figured out right now. Being curious will help you move forward, and every little step you take to learn about yourself is progress.
A helpful step is to chat with your school's guidance counselor. They can guide you through different options, connect you with resources, and suggest career or personality tests that match your interests and strengths. Seeing a few possibilities can really help things start to make sense.
If you're still unsure after high school, think about taking a gap year to work, travel, or volunteer, or consider an Exploratory Studies major in college. These options give you time to discover more about yourself before choosing a specific direction.
Remember, you don't need to have everything figured out right now. Being curious will help you move forward, and every little step you take to learn about yourself is progress.
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Miri’s Answer
It's 100% ok to not know where you want to go just yet. I'd say lean into those interests and see which of them seems to spark the most interest in you, but also keep an eye out for any interests you might not have known about prior. As a kid I was convinced I was going to be a professional artist, then hit middle school and it changed to wanting to be a counselor, and here I am at 26 as an self taught architectural drafter with a side of really wanting to cover true crime on YouTube. And those previous interests are still very much there, they just didn't end up working out career-wise for one reason or another. It takes time and experience to figure out what you want to do with your education and you're still in a pretty heavy transition phase of life in it's own right with high school. Whether it's that you still need to find the right interest or that your motivation is lacking because of the stage of life that you're in, you still have time to figure it out, even if that means taking a gap year to work through those feelings or something. Whatever ends up working for you.
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Pulkit’s Answer
First off, it shows incredible self-awareness that you're able to recognize and articulate how you're feeling. That kind of reflection is rare and powerful, especially at your age.
To me, it sounds like you are interested in writing and the arts, but maybe you haven’t yet found the specific thing that truly excites you or makes you want to dive in. That’s okay. You’re still discovering who you are and what lights you up.
Try exploring things outside your usual routine. Talk to friends, teachers, or people who work in creative fields. Ask them what they love about what they do, or how they got started. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help or share their stories—and sometimes, hearing those stories can spark something in you.
And remember: you don’t have to have it all figured out right now. You’re allowed to be uncertain. You’re allowed to try things and not like them. The important part is staying open to the possibility that something might click.
You’re not alone in this—and you’ve got time. Let yourself explore without pressure.
To me, it sounds like you are interested in writing and the arts, but maybe you haven’t yet found the specific thing that truly excites you or makes you want to dive in. That’s okay. You’re still discovering who you are and what lights you up.
Try exploring things outside your usual routine. Talk to friends, teachers, or people who work in creative fields. Ask them what they love about what they do, or how they got started. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help or share their stories—and sometimes, hearing those stories can spark something in you.
And remember: you don’t have to have it all figured out right now. You’re allowed to be uncertain. You’re allowed to try things and not like them. The important part is staying open to the possibility that something might click.
You’re not alone in this—and you’ve got time. Let yourself explore without pressure.
Thank you, I really appreciate this advice!! :]
Sophie
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Sophie,
Everything is uncertain but we have little choice but to keep moving forward, little by little, day by day. It sounds like what you're missing is a sense of purpose, which is to be expected given your age and the times we live in.
I think your best bet at this point is to do whatever you can to make sure you have as many choices as possible. That means focusing on your studies--especially the subjects you dislike and/or don't come easily--and rewarding yourself by investigating everything that calls to you. Read, interview people with jobs that pique your interest, make things just for fun, and spend time in nature. Since you like to write, maybe try keeping a journal and see if that helps you sort out your thoughts and find a direction. No one has to read it; it's just for you.
Try to remember that things will change and you won't always feel this way.
That's all I have for you, unfortunately. I wish I had something inspiring to say, but I think what you're experiencing is pretty normal. At least it was pretty much how I felt when I was your age. All I knew as a kid in rural Maine was that I had to get out of my parents' house and that I wanted to move to New York and become a famous artist.
Please write back if you have more specific questions that one of us might be able to answer. Right now, though, I think your major tasks are to do your best in school and really focus on your inner self, because that's where the answers are ultimately going to come from.
Wishing you all the best.
Everything is uncertain but we have little choice but to keep moving forward, little by little, day by day. It sounds like what you're missing is a sense of purpose, which is to be expected given your age and the times we live in.
I think your best bet at this point is to do whatever you can to make sure you have as many choices as possible. That means focusing on your studies--especially the subjects you dislike and/or don't come easily--and rewarding yourself by investigating everything that calls to you. Read, interview people with jobs that pique your interest, make things just for fun, and spend time in nature. Since you like to write, maybe try keeping a journal and see if that helps you sort out your thoughts and find a direction. No one has to read it; it's just for you.
Try to remember that things will change and you won't always feel this way.
That's all I have for you, unfortunately. I wish I had something inspiring to say, but I think what you're experiencing is pretty normal. At least it was pretty much how I felt when I was your age. All I knew as a kid in rural Maine was that I had to get out of my parents' house and that I wanted to move to New York and become a famous artist.
Please write back if you have more specific questions that one of us might be able to answer. Right now, though, I think your major tasks are to do your best in school and really focus on your inner self, because that's where the answers are ultimately going to come from.
Wishing you all the best.
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jose’s Answer
Yes. In short: Explore other options. Try things out outside of Art. Meanwhile, continue harvesting your creativity and your artistic interest even if it means you won't pursue it professionally. As a person who makes art for a living I will boldly say "An Art profession is not for everyone, but Art is for everyone." If you have little to no motivation to pursue the arts as a profession because currently it seems like an uncertain field, that's understandable. but don't stop making art. Simply look for other things you could be interested in that could lead to a profession. Also... you're in Junior High- time is on your side. you have plenty of it to test things out, try different things, experiment, and see what comes of that. Take notes, journal your interest and seek advice from those who have done them. I'll also say this: A big lie we're told is that professional fields are mutually exclusive from others. This is far from the truth. I know too many scientists who apply their knowledge to care taking, engineers who write for television, artists who work in the public sector, and custodians who hold gallery shows when they finish a collection. You can pick multiple interests and pursue as few of them as you're interested in. But my fundamental advice is the same: you have time. Explore. Follow your intuition and learn from what you like and what you don't.
Best of success to you, but of course, take it easy, and have fun.
Best of success to you, but of course, take it easy, and have fun.
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Eileen M.’s Answer
I am a 53 year old full time artist, it was not an easy road to get here and I had to make some sacrifices in my art career over the years. However you are right, this is a very tough time to sell art BUT people are still buying. To keep piece of mind I will put the commissions aside and I make art for me so as to keep the juices flowing and my creative mind sharp. That being said I still have to pick up work on the side so as to keep my savings account above a certain level to pay my mortgage and other bills. I have been told in the past that I am “coping out” going to work for a corporation and not spending my entire time doing art. This is really bad and dangerous advice, I let that peer pressure get to me in the past and I put myself into extreme debt.
One thing you may want to consider is going to College (it can be Community College if you choose an accredited one and are just as good as the big name colleges and are more affordable) to become a Art or Writing/English teacher. There is a shortage of good teachers and you have the summer to do your art full time. Not to mention that you can justify art and writing classes to expand your skills.
Hope this helps
Quenchbucket Studio
One thing you may want to consider is going to College (it can be Community College if you choose an accredited one and are just as good as the big name colleges and are more affordable) to become a Art or Writing/English teacher. There is a shortage of good teachers and you have the summer to do your art full time. Not to mention that you can justify art and writing classes to expand your skills.
Hope this helps
Quenchbucket Studio
Updated
Chanél’s Answer
Hi Sophie! (Very short answer) Feeling unmotivated is perfectly normal, even as you grow older. Lean into what you normally like to do when you're bored. Finding out what you lean into when you have no objective often can unintentionally lead you into your passion or purpose.
Fabrício Cavalcanti
Educator, Photographer and Visual Artist
2
Answers
Updated
Fabrício’s Answer
Hi Sophie, I know things can feel uncertain, but that's a part of life. If you let that stop you, it might hold you back in any path you choose.
Today, with so many choices, it can feel overwhelming. But I believe the best way to succeed is to follow what you love.
Try practicing your art, connect with other artists, visit art shows, and join art groups. You'll meet others who understand what you're going through, and it can really help to know you're not alone.
I hope this helps, Sophie. Keep moving forward!
Today, with so many choices, it can feel overwhelming. But I believe the best way to succeed is to follow what you love.
Try practicing your art, connect with other artists, visit art shows, and join art groups. You'll meet others who understand what you're going through, and it can really help to know you're not alone.
I hope this helps, Sophie. Keep moving forward!
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Malvena’s Answer
Hi Sophie,
I totally get your space. I was the same way until I started writing and reading about the things that got me excited. I can say from experience that scripting in a diary or journaling your thoughts, feelings, and daily activities is a good place to start. And also, make it fun. Get a journal, pens, and create space in your room to write. I guarantee that if you make it fun, you will fall in love with writing.
Wishing you all the best :-)
I totally get your space. I was the same way until I started writing and reading about the things that got me excited. I can say from experience that scripting in a diary or journaling your thoughts, feelings, and daily activities is a good place to start. And also, make it fun. Get a journal, pens, and create space in your room to write. I guarantee that if you make it fun, you will fall in love with writing.
Wishing you all the best :-)
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NANCY’s Answer
You can find a balance. Keep pursuing something that interests you and combine that with your love of art. You could study something that speaks to you while continuing to focus on art. I'm a dancer and I also work in an office, so there are options. Don't be discouraged; you're very young and have time to explore your interests. You can talk to someone who's dedicated to art and learn about their experience, or find people who have other professions but also love art and dedicate time to it.
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Karen’s Answer
Relying on motivation alone won't always get you through your career. Sometimes, you just won't feel motivated. Start by figuring out what you don't want to do. Then, talk to people in different jobs to learn what their daily work is like. It's okay to change your mind about your career path. Since you're already exploring options, consider speaking with a licensed counselor or social worker to help guide you.
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BRICK’s Answer
Believe in your self-worth and recognize your inner strength. It took me 18 years to learn this, and now I'm a D1 football star. If you focus on positive thoughts and hold onto them, you'll find success and feel a new kind of motivation and strength. With this, you can achieve anything.
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Don’s Answer
Hello Sophie,
I'm sorry to hear that you don't feel that motivated in pursuing a career path right now. I have had moments in my life especially with school where I didn't have a lot of motivation or was really lost in terms of direction. It seems that you have possible interests in writing and art which is a good start in terms of finding something that can motivate you to pursue something after high school. It is ultimately up to you to decide what you want to do because there are other options like working full time, taking a gap year after high school, going to trade school, going to a community college or doing apprenticeships to name a couple of alternatives. Keep exploring things that interest you or things that you find enjoyable in your life and maybe this can help you in thinking about a possible career path. I know that you will find something to do after high school and hope you are able to find something that motivates you later on!
I'm sorry to hear that you don't feel that motivated in pursuing a career path right now. I have had moments in my life especially with school where I didn't have a lot of motivation or was really lost in terms of direction. It seems that you have possible interests in writing and art which is a good start in terms of finding something that can motivate you to pursue something after high school. It is ultimately up to you to decide what you want to do because there are other options like working full time, taking a gap year after high school, going to trade school, going to a community college or doing apprenticeships to name a couple of alternatives. Keep exploring things that interest you or things that you find enjoyable in your life and maybe this can help you in thinking about a possible career path. I know that you will find something to do after high school and hope you are able to find something that motivates you later on!