I can let go of the past Life can become a fill-in-the-blank And if I fill it in, I'll fill myself
When I started writing this article, my head kept replaying this song (just kidding). Although the original song speaks about choices in relationships, constantly becoming fill-in-the-blanks where the final answer is always yourself, life is actually the same way. When we're lost and don't know where to go, when we're unsure whether to follow others' suggestions, it all reflects our desire to find a "standard answer" that meets others' expectations, thereby changing our own thoughts.
But really, life has no standard answer. Your choice IS the answer.
Recently, a friend discussed with me how to make choices about the future. From others' perspectives, we might feel sorry for them, having persisted in something for so long, only to abandon it midway. Some support it, some oppose it, some suggest they weigh their options. However, life has never been a straight path—there are many unexpected turns that intersect with our lives. Sometimes, these things become far more important than what we originally wanted.
Or perhaps we must first give up one thing to accomplish another important matter, and then return to our original plan. It's simply taking a longer route in life. If you've worked hard but no one has yet recognized your talents, never give up. Takuya Senda, who once worked at a renowned consulting firm, frequently interacted with professionals from various industries. After conducting interviews with over 10,000 office workers and 3,300 mid-to-senior level managers, he drew this conclusion: "A person's life is a roundabout competition. Only those willing to take detours can achieve success!"
Consider a scenario where a recent university graduate and someone with three years of work experience both apply for the same job. For the graduate, this job might simply be about accumulating experience. But for someone with work experience, if they want to return to entry-level work, it's only because after three years of experience, they've clarified what they truly want—which is why they're willing to leave their past behind and "start anew." Such a life choice may face external pressure, but if they persevere through all difficulties and ultimately find their own path, it is they themselves who will have grown.
Beyond the workplace, facing life's big and small decisions—whether to get married, whether to buy a house, or whether to return to school for further education—we always "have a choice." Many people fear making decisions because they worry about making mistakes or taking a "wrong path" in life. But friend, life only happens once. No matter the outcome, there is no standard answer. But once you make a choice, that IS the answer.
