Finishing school or a course can feel like standing at the edge of a large football field. For some, the path ahead is clear, with plans for work, travel, or further study already mapped out. But for others, it can feel like you’ve missed the boat. You might not have a clear plan for the year ahead. It might feel lonely watching your friends move on with their lives, pursuing their dreams, while you’re left wondering where to start. And if you face barriers, such as living with a disability, it can feel even more challenging to take that next step toward employment, activities or building social connections.
Life isn’t a race, and there’s no set timeline you need to follow. What matters is taking the first step—no matter how small. Here’s how to start turning uncertainty into action and create a path forward that works for you.
Every person is unique, with their own talents, skills, and experiences that shape their story. Think about your own skills and talents. What are you naturally good at? What have you enjoyed doing in the past? Write these down. This might feel uncomfortable at first, but putting your strengths on paper is a powerful way to remind yourself of your value. Remember, no one else has your exact story, and that’s a strength you can build on.
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. The people around you—family, friends, mentors, or even a teacher you connected with—can be a valuable source of support and guidance. These people know you and want to see you succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help. Whether it’s brainstorming ideas, accompanying you when you are researching and watching workplaces for ideas of jobs, reviewing your resume, or helping you practice for an interview, they’re there for you.
Gaining hands-on experience is a great way to build confidence, learn new skills, and figure out what you enjoy. Look for opportunities to volunteer in your community or take on short-term work experience placements. These experiences not only help you develop professionally but also allow you to connect with others and expand your network. Volunteering can be a stepping stone to employment, and it shows future employers that you’re proactive and eager to learn.
Connecting with others can help you feel more supported and open new doors. Join local clubs, social groups, or interest-based communities where you can meet people who share similar passions. You never know who might introduce you to a new opportunity or provide valuable advice. These connections can be a source of encouragement as you navigate your journey.
Meeting people who are already working in fields that interest you can be inspiring. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about their jobs and what they do. If possible, visit workplaces and observe what the employees are doing. This firsthand experience can give you insight into different roles and help you decide what might be a good fit for you. People are often happy to share their experiences and offer advice if you show interest.
There are many organisations and services dedicated to helping people find work, especially those facing barriers. Employment services can assist with resume writing, interview preparation, job searching, and even connecting you with employers. If you’re living with a disability, there are specialised services available that understand your unique needs and can provide tailored support. Use these resources to boost your confidence and job prospects. There are employment services provided by NDIS funding and Disability Employment Services that you can be referred to through Centrelink.
Dreams can feel overwhelming if you try to tackle them all at once. The key is to break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. For example:
Each small action brings you closer to where you want to be. Celebrate those small wins, too. Every step counts.
There will always be things outside your control, but there are a lot of things that are within your control. You can choose how to spend your time, where to put your energy, and how to respond to challenges that come your way. Building a daily or weekly routine—even if it’s as simple as scheduling time to job search or connecting with a friend—can help you stay focused and feel more in control. Set times and alarms to do each activity, plan the day before so it's easy to do the next day.
Sometimes, taking the next step can feel impossible without extra support. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to seek out organisations or professionals that can help. There are services specifically designed to support people with disability, like job coaches, career counselors, and community programs. They can provide practical assistance and encouragement to help you move forward. Also, if you know or think that someone else is lonely - reach out to them. It can make you feel better by reaching out to connect with someone who might be feeling the same way.
It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but your journey is yours alone. It’s okay if your path looks different from your friends’. Life isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about creating a life that’s meaningful and fulfilling to you. So, take a deep breath and remind yourself: it’s never too late to start. You’ve got this! Count down 5, 4, 3, 2 then 1 - make your first move.