I’m stuck in life and need some guidance on what to do next

Hiya everyone,

I’m 23, living in Kent UK and feeling a bit lost in life. I’m not sure what direction to take and don’t really have anyone to ask for advice. I want to feel achieved, leave my mark on the world, and of course, earn a living. Here’s a bit about me: • I graduated in 2022 with a degree in Industrial Design but haven’t done much design work since. • My previous jobs include working in an acrylic-making factory, co-owning a coffee trailer, and waitressing, and in lockdown I started a 3D printing and Vinyl business for small accessories and personalised products. • I currently live at home with my family, which I’m happy with for now. My mum had a stroke just over a year ago, so I’ve been caring for her, and my parents have been financially supporting me (I’m super grateful for them). • I’d love to own a business someday rather than work for someone else, but I don’t know what kind of business that should be. I’ve enjoyed the business ventures I’ve tried so far. • I enjoy design, but my drawing skills aren’t great. I do love working with tools like Fusion 360 and Adobe Illustrator. I feel like I’m “okay” at a lot of things but not excellent at any one thing. • I love hands-on work like model-making and prototyping which is definitely in some of my hobbies like puzzles, Lego, and Rokr sets. • I’m passionate about mental health. My final university project was a bench concept designed to encourage conversation without the pressure of eye contact—it’s still one of my proudest creations and the model still sits on my shelf. • I also enjoy cooking, being outdoors, hiking, and geocaching, it’d be great to merge some of my hobbies into a business.

I’ve been considering starting a graphic design business, but I feel like I’d need to learn a lot more before feeling confident. I’ve done some logos and posters here and there, but I’m worried my creativity isn’t strong enough to stand out. I’ve also thought about selling digital products, but I want whatever I do to feel meaningful and empowering. But I’m definitely happy to do an online course, learn further, but I am worried I have massive creative block. Then I feel like it’s such a competitive market I want stand a chance!

Another idea I’ve had is creating my own cookbook. I love cooking and have always enjoyed the idea of designing a beautiful, creative cookbook. But, again, I feel like I’m not good enough—both in terms of recipes and design—to pull it off successfully.

Right now, I need to stay close to home to care for my mum, so that limits my options a bit. I’d really appreciate any advice, feedback, or ideas on what direction I could take—whether it’s starting a business, taking another course, or just figuring out my next steps.

Thanks so much for reading, I’m aware this definitely sounds like a lot of imposter syndrome. I just don’t have anyone to talk to for any sense of direction! Any help is hugely appreciated x