Every Small Step Counts

Hey, Best Friend!

Ok, how many times have you thought to yourself, “By now, I should have this figured out”? Maybe it’s your career path, your love life, your finances, or even just how to be a fully functioning adult without Googling “how long does chicken last in the fridge?” (we’ve all been there).

The truth is, no one has it all figured out. And you don’t need to. Life isn’t a race with one finish line where everyone arrives perfectly polished. It’s messy, nonlinear, and full of pivots—and that’s actually what makes it beautiful.

Let’s talk about why it’s okay to embrace the uncertainty, and how not having it all figured out might just be your superpower.

1. Everyone’s Timeline Looks Different

It’s easy to compare your journey to someone else’s. Maybe your college roommate is climbing the corporate ladder, while you’re still figuring out what career actually excites you. Or maybe your best friend is married with kids, while you’re still swiping on dating apps.

Here’s the thing: timelines are not universal. Your story isn’t supposed to look like anyone else’s. What feels like a delay to you could actually be perfect timing. Some of the most successful and happiest people took years—even decades—to “figure it out.” Oprah didn’t start her talk show until her 30s. Vera Wang didn’t design her first dress until 40. You’re not behind—you’re simply on your timeline.

2. Figuring It Out Is Overrated

When we say “figured out,” what does that even mean? Having a picture-perfect career, marriage, savings account, and morning routine? Life isn’t a checklist—it’s a lived experience.

“Having it all figured out” can be a trap. It can trick us into thinking that once we arrive at some magical destination, everything will fall into place. But the truth? Even the people who look like they’ve figured it all out are still learning, pivoting, and second-guessing.

3. Growth Happens in the In-Between

Not knowing forces you to explore. It keeps you curious. It pushes you to try new jobs, meet new people, live in new places, or pick up new habits. Those in-between seasons—the ones that feel uncertain and uncomfortable—are actually the ones shaping you the most.

Think about it: the “figuring it out” stage is where you discover who you are, what you value, and what you don’t want. Every experience, even the “wrong” ones, become stepping stones that guide you closer to the life you’re building.

4. Give Yourself Grace

Here’s the part we often forget: you are human. You’re allowed to stumble, take detours, or pause when life feels heavy. Giving yourself grace means loosening the grip on perfection and embracing compassion for the version of you that’s still learning.

Talk to yourself like you would a best friend—remind yourself that mistakes don’t define you, delays don’t disqualify you, and progress doesn’t have to be fast to be meaningful. Grace gives you room to breathe, to keep going, and to honor the fact that figuring it out is a process, not a deadline.

5. You’re Allowed to Change Your Mind

One of the biggest lies we’re told is that once you choose a path, you have to stick with it forever. But best friend, you’re not locked into one decision. You’re allowed to pivot. You’re allowed to outgrow dreams. You’re allowed to realize what once felt right no longer serves you.

That’s not failure—it’s wisdom. Imagine if you never gave yourself permission to change? You’d be living a life that doesn’t even fit the person you’re becoming.

6. Anchor Yourself in Small Wins

If the “big picture” feels overwhelming, focus on what you can figure out today. Maybe that’s sticking to your budget this week, showing up to your workout, finally scheduling that doctor’s appointment, or even just taking time to rest.

Small, consistent actions build confidence and momentum. They remind you that even if you don’t have the whole plan mapped out, you’re still moving forward.

7. Trust That Clarity Will Come

Clarity rarely shows up all at once—it’s built slowly through trial, error, and reflection. Think of it like walking with a flashlight: you only see a few steps ahead, but that’s enough to keep moving. Over time, those steps add up, and suddenly you’ll look back and realize how far you’ve come.

You’re Right Where You’re Supposed to Be

So Best Friend, take a deep breath. Release the pressure of having every detail nailed down. You are not “behind.” You are not “failing.” You’re simply living a story that’s still unfolding.

The beauty of life is that it doesn’t have to be perfectly planned to be meaningful. You don’t need to have it all figured out to be worthy, loved, and exactly where you’re meant to be.

Remember this: the best stories are still being written. And so is yours.