Ankur Warikoo on Finding Your Own Path in Your 20s

In a recent LinkedIn post, Ankur Warikoo discusses the common feeling of being lost or demotivated in one’s 20s, suggesting that this distress often stems from living a life not aligned with one’s true desires.

Warikoo highlights a prevalent issue where individuals in their twenties pursue goals that have been inherited rather than genuinely chosen. These inherited goals, he explains, are frequently dictated by external influences such as parents, peers, and societal expectations. Common examples include securing a stable job, achieving financial success, and settling down – objectives that may not resonate with the individual’s personal aspirations.

“Most of us spend our 20s chasing goals we inherited. From our parents, our peers, and society.”

The Illusion of Inherited Goals

Ankur Warikoo argues that this disconnect between external expectations and internal desires can lead to a profound sense of disillusionment. When individuals are striving to succeed within a framework that doesn’t truly belong to them, their motivation can wane, leading to feelings of being adrift. As Warikoo points out, the critical question of whether these inherited goals are what the individual *actually* wants is often overlooked.

“Nobody asked if that’s what YOU actually wanted.”

This lack of personal validation for one’s life choices, according to Warikoo, is a primary reason for the demotivation experienced by many in their twenties. He suggests that individuals might be trying to “thrive in someone else’s life,” which is an inherently difficult, if not impossible, task.

Steps to Discovering Your Authentic Path

To address this pervasive issue, Warikoo proposes that individuals need to actively seek and define their own path. While the original post mentions five steps, the core message revolves around self-discovery and the courage to deviate from externally imposed trajectories. This involves introspection and a willingness to question the validity of the goals that have been passively adopted.

“So it is not surprising that you’re losing interest – because you’re trying to thrive in someone else’s life!”

Warikoo’s insights suggest that the twenties are a crucial period for self-definition. Instead of passively accepting a pre-ordained life plan, individuals are encouraged to engage in a process of exploration. This might involve trying different experiences, pursuing varied interests, and critically evaluating societal norms and expectations. By doing so, individuals can begin to identify what truly motivates them and aligns with their core values, paving the way for a more fulfilling and authentic life.

Ultimately, Ankur Warikoo’s message on LinkedIn serves as a timely reminder for young adults to critically examine the foundations of their aspirations. He advocates for a proactive approach to life planning, emphasizing that true motivation and satisfaction come from pursuing goals that are genuinely one’s own.