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Intro:
This is Episode 102
Welcome to Wellness in Every Season, the podcast where we explore the rich tapestry of wellness in all its forms. I’m your host, Autumn Carter, a certified life coach turned wellness coach as well as a certified parenting coach dedicated to empowering others to rediscover their identity in their current season of life.
My goal is to help you thrive both as an individual and as a parent.
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EPISODE INTRO |
Welcome to Episode 102 of Wellness in Every Season titled, “Finding Purpose and Clarity When Life Changes Feel Uncertain!”
Have you ever had a moment where life felt a little off? Maybe you’re in your twenties, fresh out of school, wondering if the path you’re on is really the right one. Or you’re in your forties, looking around at everything you’ve built and questioning why it doesn’t feel as fulfilling as you thought it would. Or maybe, you’re not any of these ages but feel like a boat without a rudder, drifting aimlessly or constantly changing direction, only to realize you’re not really getting anywhere.
These moments of uncertainty and transition can happen to anyone at any stage of life. They leave us questioning our purpose, our choices, and sometimes even our sense of self. But they’re also an invitation—a chance to pause and ask, “What do I truly want from this life, and how do I realign to get there?”
In today’s episode, we’re going to unpack what these transitions really mean. Why do they happen? How do they shape us? And, most importantly, how can we use them to create more clarity and fulfillment in our lives? Whether you’re in the middle of one yourself, or you know someone who is, this episode is for you.
Take a moment to share this episode with someone who might need it. Maybe it’s a friend who feels stuck or a family member who’s been talking about needing a change. We’re diving into some powerful, juicy insights today, and I’m so glad you’re here.
Key point #1: Understanding Life Crises at Any Age
When we hear the term life crisis, it’s easy to picture someone in the middle of a mid-life crisis—questioning their choices, making drastic changes, or reflecting on what they truly want from life. But these crises aren’t reserved for your forties or fifties. They can happen much earlier or later, and they always carry a deeper meaning.
Let’s start with the teen years, a time that’s often filled with profound questioning and self-doubt. Psychologists refer to this stage as an identity crisis, where individuals grapple with figuring out who they are and where they belong. It’s a natural part of adolescence, but that doesn’t make it easy. Teens may question their values, experiment with different identities, or feel overwhelmed by the pressure to figure out their future. This period of self-discovery sets the stage for how they’ll navigate transitions later in life.
Then there’s the quarter-life crisis, which many experience in their late teens, twenties, or early thirties. This often hits when you’re transitioning into adulthood—graduating, starting a career, or stepping into new responsibilities. You might feel paralyzed by the sheer number of choices, unsure of what’s “right,” or trapped in a cycle of comparison, thinking everyone else has their life together. The truth is, this stage is just as much about finding your path as it is about learning to trust yourself.
The mid-life crisis, by contrast, often comes with a different flavor of reflection. You might look back on decades of work, relationships, and personal growth and wonder why you still feel something is missing. Maybe you’ve achieved everything you thought you wanted, but it doesn’t feel the way you imagined. Or perhaps you’ve been so busy fulfilling responsibilities to others—family, work, society—that you’ve lost touch with what matters most to you.
But here’s the thing: whether you’re navigating an identity crisis, a quarter-life crisis, or a mid-life crisis, these transitions are not a sign of failure. They’re your mind and heart nudging you to pause and reflect. They’re an opportunity to ask yourself, “Who am I now, and what do I want moving forward?”
Even if you’re not in one of these typical age ranges, you might still feel like you’re in a crisis of direction—a boat without a rudder, drifting or constantly changing course without real progress. That’s because these moments of uncertainty can happen at any stage of life, whenever there’s a gap between where you are and where you want to be.
While these experiences can feel overwhelming, they’re actually incredibly powerful. They’re a chance to realign, to let go of old expectations, and to step into a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling. So, whether you’re 16, 26, or 56, these moments of reflection can be the most transformative chapters of your story.
Key point #2: Why These Crises Matter and How Coaching Can Help
These moments of uncertainty—whether it’s a quarter-life crisis, mid-life crisis, or a feeling of being lost at any age—are not just inconvenient bumps in the road. They are pivotal moments. They’re the times in life that ask us to stop, reassess, and make meaningful changes. But what makes these periods so challenging is that they often come with a lot of questions and very few answers.
You might be asking yourself:
• “What is my next step?”
• “How do I know if I’m making the right choices?”
• “What if I fail or regret the changes I’m thinking of making?”
This is where coaching becomes so valuable. As a wellness and life coach, my role isn’t to give you all the answers. Instead, I work with you to help you find your own answers. Together, we explore what’s truly driving your feelings of uncertainty. Is it a misalignment with your values? Is it fear of failure? Or is it simply that you’ve outgrown the story you’ve been living and need help writing a new one?
Coaching is about creating a safe space to unpack these questions and reflect on what really matters to you. It’s about breaking down overwhelming challenges into actionable steps. And, most importantly, it’s about helping you rediscover your confidence and purpose so you can move forward with clarity.
As I mentioned in Episode 100: Finding Your Life Purpose, uncovering your purpose isn’t just about grand visions or lofty goals. It’s about connecting with the things that energize you and give your life meaning. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Episode 100, I highly recommend going back after this episode—it ties directly into the strategies we’re talking about today.
Through coaching, I can help you pinpoint what feels out of place, guide you through the process of realignment, and empower you to design a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. Whether you’re just beginning to ask these big questions or you’re ready to take the next steps, know that you don’t have to navigate this season alone.
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Segment: Mindfulness Practice: Reconnecting with Your Desires
Let’s take a moment to center ourselves and reconnect with what truly matters. If you’re able, find a quiet place to sit or lie down. Close your eyes, and take a deep breath in through your nose, letting your lungs fully expand. Hold for a moment, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Let’s do that a few more times to settle into this space.
As you breathe, begin to visualize yourself standing at a crossroads. In front of you are several paths, each representing a choice or possibility in your life. Maybe some of the paths feel familiar, while others are shrouded in mystery. Allow yourself to notice these paths without judgment. Simply observe them.
Now, ask yourself:
• If I did know the answer, what would it be?
• If I did care about the things I’ve told myself I don’t care about, what would I prefer?
• If it did matter, what would I rather do?
Breathe deeply and let these questions sink in. Stay curious, and remember—there are no wrong answers.
Now, shift your focus to what you truly desire. Ask yourself:
• What do I want to accomplish?
• What do I want to experience?
• What do I want to become?
Spend a moment visualizing your ideal life. See it clearly—where are you, who are you with, and what are you doing? Notice how it feels to live this way. Let those feelings settle in your heart.
When you’re ready, bring your attention to your unique qualities—the traits that make you, you. Reflect on how you love to express these qualities and what your perfect world looks like. Then, combine these reflections into a single sentence that describes your purpose. For example: “I create meaningful connections by using my creativity and compassion to inspire others to grow.”
As you hold this clarity in your mind, remind yourself: You create or allow all that happens to you. Let go of excuses and embrace your power to shape your life.
Before we close, take one more deep breath in and out. Feel yourself grounded in this moment, connected to your purpose, and ready to take the next step with curiosity and love.
If it helps, spend time journaling on these questions or meditating on your insights as many times as you need. Clarity isn’t always immediate—it’s a practice, and each time you return to these reflections, you’ll get closer to your truth.
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Key point #3: How to Embrace These Transitions and Create Clarity
Once you’ve identified that you’re in the midst of a life transition—whether it’s a quarter-life crisis, a mid-life crisis, or simply a season of uncertainty—the next step is to take action. These moments can feel overwhelming, but they’re also opportunities to realign with your values, goals, and desires. Let’s explore how to approach this phase with intention and clarity.
The first step is to give yourself permission to explore. Often, we resist change because we fear making the wrong choice. But staying stuck is the only true wrong choice. By allowing yourself to ask, “What do I truly want?” you create the space to consider options you may have dismissed in the past. This isn’t about being impulsive—it’s about being intentional and curious.
Next, it’s essential to reconnect with your values. What matters most to you? Think about the moments in your life when you felt truly alive—what were you doing, and why did it feel so meaningful? These moments often hold clues to your core values, and when you live in alignment with them, you feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Another key step is to break the cycle of fear. Fear of failure, fear of judgment, or fear of the unknown can keep you frozen in place. Instead of letting fear dictate your choices, try reframing it. What if this season of change is an invitation to grow? What if the discomfort you feel is simply a sign that you’re on the verge of something incredible?
Visualization can also be a powerful tool. Close your eyes and imagine your ideal life. What does it look like? What are you doing? How does it feel to live this way? The more vividly you can see and feel this future, the easier it becomes to take steps toward it. Pair this with small, actionable goals—tiny changes that bring you closer to the life you envision.
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Navigating these transitions alone can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether it’s reaching out to a trusted friend, seeking therapy, or working with a coach, having someone to guide and support you can make all the difference. As a coach, I help people uncover their purpose, overcome obstacles, and create a clear roadmap for their next chapter. If you’re feeling stuck, I’d love to help you get started.
Remember, if you haven’t yet listened to Episode 100: Finding Your Life Purpose, that episode is a perfect complement to today’s conversation. It dives even deeper into the process of uncovering what drives you and creating a life that feels truly aligned.
This isn’t just about surviving transitions—it’s about thriving in them. By approaching these moments with curiosity, courage, and a willingness to grow, you can turn uncertainty into clarity and purpose.
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AD
Welcome! Are you craving moments that nourish both your soul and family amidst the blur of daily tasks? I understand that desire for a life that brings peace, balance, and joy—not just endless to-dos.
That’s why I created a range of programs at Wellness in Every Season to help you transform daily routines into meaningful experiences. Recently, I’ve launched a variety of offerings designed for busy, budget-conscious individuals—some free and others starting at just $7. Many can be completed in a few minutes or hours, while others dive deeper into exploring your dreams, desires, and unique strengths.
These programs focus on practical self-care, creating equality in your home, and building trust with yourself. Imagine stepping into your day with confidence and ease, feeling supported by a community on a similar path. Whether you’re looking to reclaim time, pursue your dream job, or simply find joy in the little moments, there’s something here for you.
All resources are available on demand at wellnessineveryseason.com. You can also book private coaching sessions for more personalized support on your journey.
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Key point #4
Welcome back! I hope you found that moment refreshing. Before we dive into our next key point, I want to take a quick moment to say that the best way you can support me and this podcast is by purchasing one of my programs, signing up for one-on-one coaching, and, of course, sharing this show with others. Your support allows me to continue creating valuable content that empowers each of us to live more fully and embrace wellness in every season of life. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me.
Now, let’s dive into our next key point: Turning Clarity into Action
Understanding what you want and why you want it is transformative, but the real magic happens when you take action. Clarity without action is like having a roadmap but never starting the journey. In this segment, we’re going to focus on how to translate your reflections into tangible steps that move you toward the life you envision.
The first step is to start small. Big changes can feel overwhelming, but breaking them down into manageable pieces makes them much more attainable. Let’s say you’ve realized that you want a more fulfilling career. Instead of trying to overhaul your entire professional life overnight, start by exploring new skills, networking, or setting aside time each week to research potential paths. Small, consistent actions build momentum and confidence.
Next, it’s important to prioritize. Once you have clarity about your values and goals, some choices will naturally feel more aligned than others. Focus your energy on what matters most, and don’t be afraid to let go of activities or commitments that no longer serve you. Remember, saying no to one thing is saying yes to something else that aligns better with your vision.
Accountability is another crucial factor. Share your goals with someone who can support and encourage you, whether it’s a friend, partner, or coach. When you know someone is cheering you on—or holding you accountable—it becomes easier to stay motivated, even when the path gets challenging.
As you take action, remember to celebrate progress. Even small wins deserve recognition, because they’re evidence that you’re moving forward. Progress isn’t always linear, and it’s normal to face setbacks. Instead of getting discouraged, use those moments as opportunities to learn and adjust.
It’s also essential to remain open and flexible. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and sometimes the path you start on will lead you to something even better than you imagined. Stay curious and embrace the journey, knowing that every step brings you closer to a life that feels aligned and purposeful.
Finally, remember that this process is ongoing. Your desires and goals may evolve over time, and that’s okay. Give yourself permission to revisit these questions, realign when necessary, and keep moving forward.
If this all feels a bit overwhelming, you’re not alone. That’s why I’m here as a coach—to help you create a personalized plan, navigate challenges, and stay focused on what truly matters to you. Whether you’re just starting to explore your purpose or ready to take bold steps toward it, I’d love to support you in your journey.
And don’t forget—this episode builds on the foundation we laid in Episode 100: Finding Your Life Purpose. If you haven’t already listened, it’s a great resource for uncovering your unique purpose and aligning your life with it.
Taking action is how you turn uncertainty into clarity, and clarity into fulfillment. Every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to the life you’re meant to live.
Key Point #5: The Common Thread in Navigating Life’s Transitions
One of the things I’ve noticed in my work as a wellness and life coach is how universal these feelings are. Almost all of my clients come to me because they’ve felt some version of what we’ve talked about today. They’ve felt stuck, questioning their purpose, or unsure how to move forward. And more often than not, they tell me, “I just don’t know where to start.”
These feelings—of uncertainty, doubt, and even fear—are not just common; they’re almost inevitable during times of transition. But what I want you to know is that they don’t have to be permanent. These emotions are signals, guiding you to pause, reflect, and make changes that bring your life back into alignment.
Let me share a little insight from my coaching experience. When clients come to me feeling lost, it’s often because they’ve been carrying these questions and struggles alone for far too long. They’ve told themselves they should have it figured out or that asking for help is a sign of weakness. But the moment they start talking, the moment they feel seen, heard, and validated, everything shifts.
Together, we work to uncover what’s really behind those feelings of being stuck. Is it fear of failure? A lack of clarity about their values? Or simply the weight of too many expectations and responsibilities? Once we identify the root cause, we can start building a plan—a plan that’s unique to them and their goals.
Here’s the beautiful thing: when my clients take that first step toward alignment, it’s like watching a light turn on. Suddenly, they’re not just surviving their transitions; they’re thriving. They start making choices that feel right for them, and they regain the confidence to move forward with purpose and intention.
If you’re listening to this and thinking, “That’s me,” I want you to know you’re not alone. These feelings don’t mean there’s something wrong with you—they mean you’re ready for something more. And if you’ve been feeling stuck or unsure, I’d love to help you, just as I’ve helped so many others navigate these very same challenges.
This is why I do what I do—because I know how powerful it is to have someone in your corner, someone who believes in you and helps you believe in yourself.
And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to check out Episode 100: Finding Your Life Purpose. It’s the perfect companion to this episode, diving even deeper into the process of uncovering what drives you and creating a life that feels meaningful.
Transitions like these are hard, but they’re also full of possibility. With the right support and tools, you can turn these moments of doubt into opportunities for growth and clarity.
Lifehack: Quick Steps to Regain Clarity
Today’s lifehack is all about simple, actionable steps to help you navigate those moments of uncertainty and regain clarity. These are small practices you can start right now to move forward, even if you’re feeling stuck.
1. Ask Yourself Empowering Questions
When you’re feeling unsure about your next steps, start by reframing your internal dialogue. Instead of asking, “Why can’t I figure this out?” try asking, “If I did know the answer, what would it be?” This shifts your focus from frustration to possibility, helping you tap into your intuition and creativity.
2. Reconnect with What Energizes You
Take 10 minutes to write down the activities, people, or moments in your life that make you feel most alive. These are often clues to what matters most to you. Then, think about how you can bring more of those things into your daily routine—even in small ways.
3. The “One Small Step” Rule
Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down into the tiniest action you can take today. For example, if you’re thinking about switching careers, your small step might be researching one potential role or connecting with someone in that field for a quick conversation. Progress, no matter how small, builds momentum.
4. Create a Vision Snapshot
Close your eyes and imagine your ideal day five years from now. Where are you? Who are you with? What are you doing? Write down this vision in as much detail as possible, and keep it somewhere you’ll see regularly. This helps anchor your decisions in a clear sense of direction.
5. Breathwork for Grounding
Whenever you feel overwhelmed, try this simple grounding technique: inhale deeply for a count of four, hold for four, exhale for four, and repeat. This brings you back to the present moment, where you can focus on what’s in your control right now.
6. Reflect and Realign
At the end of each week, spend five minutes reflecting on your actions. Ask yourself: Did my choices align with what I want most? If not, what can I adjust next week? This keeps you accountable and ensures you’re consistently moving toward clarity and purpose.
These lifehacks are about making progress, not perfection. Even small actions can create significant change over time. Start with just one of these tips, and notice how it shifts your mindset and helps you move forward with confidence.
Key Point #6: Reflect and Realign
At the end of each week, set aside just five minutes for a quick reflection. This doesn’t have to be a big journaling session or a major life review—just a moment to check in with yourself. Ask:
• Did my choices this week align with what I want most in life?
• Did I spend time and energy on the things that truly matter to me?
If the answer is yes, take a moment to celebrate those wins, no matter how small. Recognize the progress you’ve made, and let it motivate you to keep going.
If the answer is no, approach it with curiosity instead of judgment. Ask yourself: What got in the way? What can I adjust next week to bring my actions closer to my values and goals?
This simple practice of weekly reflection helps you stay intentional and ensures that even if you veer off course, you can always realign. Remember, clarity isn’t about getting it right all the time—it’s about consistently returning to what matters most.
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Coaching Questions
Here are 10 coaching questions to guide you toward finding clarity and purpose.
1. What is one thing in your life that feels out of alignment right now?
Reflect on where you feel stuck, dissatisfied, or uncertain.
2. If nothing were holding you back, what would you do differently?
Imagine a life without fear, judgment, or external limitations.
3. What truly energizes you and makes you feel alive?
Think about the activities, people, or moments that bring you joy.
4. What do you want to accomplish, experience, or become in the next five years?
Define your aspirations and dreams in clear terms.
5. What are your non-negotiables—those things that absolutely must be part of your life?
Identify your core values and priorities.
6. What are you holding onto that no longer serves you?
Consider habits, beliefs, or commitments that may be weighing you down.
7. If you knew you couldn’t fail, what bold step would you take right now?
Explore possibilities without fear of failure.
8. What small action can you take today to move closer to your goals?
Focus on one manageable step toward progress.
9. Who can support you in this journey, and how can you ask for their help?
Think about building a support system to encourage and guide you.
10. What legacy do you want to create with your life?
Reflect on the impact you want to leave behind and how you can start living in alignment with that vision.
You can find these questions written out in the transcripts on my website at https://www.wellnessineveryseason.com/podcast-transcripts for easy reference. Take your time with them, and don’t feel pressured to answer all at once—this is your journey. These questions are here to guide you, spark reflection, and help you take those first small steps toward uncovering your unique life purpose.
CLOSING REMARKS & EPISODE SUMMARY |
As we wrap up today’s episode, let’s take a moment to reflect on what we’ve explored. We’ve talked about the uncertainty and doubt that can arise during life transitions, whether it’s a quarter-life crisis, mid-life pivot, or simply feeling stuck at any stage of life. These moments, while challenging, are also powerful opportunities to realign with your values, rediscover your purpose, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
We’ve discussed how these transitions aren’t a sign of failure but rather an invitation to pause, reflect, and grow. Through tools like self-reflection, small actionable steps, and mindfulness practices, you can begin to navigate these periods with confidence and clarity.
I’ve also shared how I help my clients through these very same challenges. Almost all of them come to me feeling the uncertainty, doubt, and misalignment we’ve talked about today. With support, they uncover their unique answers, create a plan, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.
If you’re feeling inspired but still unsure of your next step, remember to revisit Episode 100: Finding Your Life Purpose as it complements today’s discussion. Together, these episodes provide a foundation for uncovering what drives you and turning that into intentional action.
If you loved this episode or know someone who might need it, please share it. Your recommendation could be the encouragement someone needs to start their own journey.
And if you’re ready to work with me one-on-one or explore my programs, visit https://www.wellnessineveryseason.com. I’d love to help you find clarity and purpose in your life.
Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with me. Here’s to embracing your purpose, living intentionally, and finding wellness in every season of life. Until next time, take care of yourself and keep moving toward the life you’re meant to live.
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Outro:
Thank you for joining me on Wellness in Every Season. Take time to relax, heal, and be present. Next week, we will be talking about How Photo Organization Nurtures Your Well-Being with Lida Bunting
Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode. I am your host, Autumn Carter, a certified life coach dedicated to empowering individuals to rediscover their identity, find balance amidst chaos, strengthen relationships, and pursue their dreams. My goal is to help people thrive in every aspect of their lives. I hope today’s discussion inspired you and offered valuable insights.
Stay engaged with our wellness community by signing up for my newsletter at wellnessineveryseason.com/free-resources. When you join, you’ll have the option to receive a five-day guide called Awaken and Unwind: Five Days to Mastering Your Mornings and Evenings, along with free guides, special offers on my programs, practical tips, personal stories, and much more by signing up for both offers on the page.
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Thank you for being a part of our podcast community. I look forward to continuing our conversation, sharing stories, and exploring wellness in all its aspects. Take care until our next episode. You can also work with me one-on-one or on-demand through one of my programs by visiting wellnessineveryseason.com/programs.
One last thing to cover the show legally: I am a certified life coach giving general advice. So think of this more like a self-help book. This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. I am not a licensed therapist, so this podcast shouldn’t be taken as a replacement for professional guidance from a doctor or therapist. If you want personal one-on-one coaching from a certified life and parenting coach, go to my website, wellnessineveryseason.com. That’s where you can get personalized coaching from me.
See you in next week’s episode!