It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the pressures of knowing what to do with your life, whether that’s nailing your living arrangements, enrolling in the right course or finding that dream job.

Unfortunately, we don’t always get these things right the first time around, so here are five warning signs that you might need to make a change. 

#1 You’ve Lost Motivation

If you can’t get yourself out of bed in the morning, and it’s not because of that Rick And Morty binge you pulled last night, it’s time to think about what’s keeping you there.

Sure, not every day’s a party. Sometimes you need to hit that snooze button a few times before you can even think about removing yourself from the heavenly cloud that is your bed. But if you’re sleeping in every day, constantly running late for work, or skipping classes more than you know you should, it’s time to question what’s really making it so hard to face the world.

#2 You Can’t Stop Thinking About It

Big decisions around your work, home and study can sneak up on you in the form of small yet persistent “what ifs”. It’s important to recognise these early so you can make the right choices before they become all-consuming insecurities.

So, if you find yourself constantly questioning what you’re doing, it might be a sign that something’s not right. Remember, a healthy work-life balance is important, and finding that balance is all about finding the things that work for you.                                                                     

#3 You Constantly Compare Yourself To Others

You can’t live your life based on what those around you are doing, so if you find yourself looking at others and only seeing how much better they have it, it’s time to remember that your life is made up of choices and it’s up to you to make changes for the better.

It’s OK to look to others for inspiration, but this shouldn’t make you feel completely inadequate in yourself. 

#4 You’re Looking At Alternatives

This is a pretty big sign that something isn’t right. When you’ve already committed to your studies, your job, or even your living arrangements, rarely should you feel the need to change anything.

So if you’re looking for other options, it could be that you’re looking towards that greener grass. It’s also a sign that you’re looking for a way out, especially if you’re looking at other career paths, applying for other jobs, searching for other rental properties or asking others about their own lives and what makes them happy.

#5 You’re Truly Unhappy

This might seem obvious, but if you can admit to yourself that you are unhappy, then you know it’s time to make some sort of change.

Unfortunately, we often blame ourselves for being unhappy, rather than acknowledging that our unhappiness might be a response to a lack of balance in our lives. If you’re pursuing a major that no longer interests you, working a job that doesn’t inspire you or spending time with people who stifle your passion, you might need to consider what it’ll take to bring the spark back into your life.

No matter where you are in life, it’s important to know the signs of being on the wrong path. Because you can always make changes for the better; it just takes a lot of honesty and a bit of courage.