1. Adversity Illuminates Truth

The initial step toward a more satisfying life is recognizing dissatisfaction with certain aspects of our current situation. Sometimes, it takes a drastic shift to bring this awareness to light.

For example, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many to work from home, revealing the toxicity of their previous workplaces. Many individuals who had endured low pay and poor treatment began to reassess their situations, leading to the “Great Resignation” of 2021, during which 4.4 million workers quit their jobs monthly.

A February 2022 Pew Research Center survey indicated that the primary reasons Americans left their jobs were low pay, limited advancement opportunities, and feelings of disrespect.

My husband and I found ourselves unexpectedly jobless during the pandemic, an experience that was both financially and emotionally challenging. We continue to adapt to the significant changes that arose from this sudden loss of income.

Yet, this painful chapter had its benefits. As we sought new job opportunities, we realized that our previous careers were no longer suitable. This realization pushed us to reflect on our professional aspirations. We needed to earn an income, but we were unwilling to compromise our values or accept unhealthy work environments.

Through this reflection, I chose to pursue freelance writing—something I had always been passionate about. My husband, with his tech skills and love for coding, decided to become a computer programmer.

Consider the adversities you face. Are you unhappy in your current job? Are you struggling to find work after an unexpected layoff? Has a relationship lost its initial charm? Do health issues require lifestyle changes?

Use these challenges as stepping stones to clarify what you truly desire. What one action can you take (or stop taking) to move closer to your goals?

2. Awareness Sparks Transformation

The clarity we achieved regarding our new career paths prompted us to explore actionable steps for transition.

For me, becoming a writer meant starting to write. I decided to publish on Medium, which would provide immediate income and reach a larger audience than a personal blog.

My husband recognized the need to build an online portfolio to showcase his coding abilities. He researched the most in-demand programming languages and engaged with relevant articles and videos.

What steps can you take? If you wish to end a relationship, consider exploring housing options. If you're looking to leave your job, reflect on the type of role you'd like to pursue and gather more information about it.

When your current situation reveals what you don't want, spend time determining what you do want. Specify what aspects of your job or relationship are unacceptable and envision how you want the next one to differ.

3. Action Drives Change

I began publishing articles on Medium, earning a modest income right away. Engaging with other writers’ work enhanced my skills.

I also launched a weekly newsletter on Substack titled “Changing Lives.” The commitment to publish consistently every Friday improved my writing, and my growing subscriber list boosted my confidence.

Taking Sinem Günel’s Medium Writing Academy course helped me understand the importance of submitting to selective publications and writing more comprehensive articles. It also introduced me to an accountability partner to review our drafts before submission.

Eventually, I started pitching articles to paying publications. After facing several rejections, I secured my first paid assignment—a 2,500-word feature article for $1,250. I’ve since contributed two more articles to that outlet and continue to seek new opportunities.

While I have yet to earn enough solely through writing, I believe that persistence will lead to success. Most importantly, I love what I do, and it’s fulfilling to know that my writing positively impacts readers.

What steps can you take to shape your desired life? Simply wishing for change won’t yield results. Although initial actions may not lead to immediate success, inaction guarantees failure. Therefore, it's worth making the effort.

Adversity brings clarity. Awareness initiates transformation. Action fosters change. These three ABCs can guide you through difficult times, clarify your desires, and inspire you to take meaningful steps toward creating a life you aspire to. They have certainly aided me.