People who struggle to articulate what they really want in life usually display these 7 behaviors

Tina Fey by Tina Fey | October 22, 2024, 6:57 pm

Let’s face it, life can be a wild ride, full of twists and turns. Knowing exactly what you want out of it, well, that’s the ultimate challenge. And when you can’t articulate those desires? Things get even trickier.

You see, there are folk who find it tough to vocalize their true wants and needs. It’s not about being indecisive or flighty. It’s a genuine struggle, one that often manifests in certain behaviors.

In my years as a relationship expert and founder of the Love Connection blog, I’ve observed these patterns time and again. They’re not always easy to spot, but once you do, the picture starts to come together.

So buckle up as we delve into these 7 behaviors that people who struggle to communicate their life goals usually display. It’s a journey of self-discovery and understanding – one that might just help you or someone you know navigate life a tad bit better.

1) They’re often indecisive

Let’s start with a common one. Indecisiveness. We all find ourselves on the fence from time to time, but for those grappling to articulate what they want in life, it’s a constant companion.

These individuals often find themselves caught in the crossroads of choices, big and small. It isn’t just about picking a career path or deciding on a life partner. Even everyday decisions like what to have for dinner can become an uphill battle.

This indecisiveness stems from their struggle to identify their true desires. When you aren’t sure of what you want, every choice feels like a gamble.

The fear of making the wrong decision and closing the door on other possibilities can be paralyzing. So they stand still, stuck at the crossroads, hoping for a sign to show them the right path.

But remember, it’s not about being flaky or unreliable. It’s a real struggle, one that requires understanding and patience.

2) They’re great listeners

This might seem surprising, but people who struggle to articulate what they want in life often turn out to be fantastic listeners.

It’s counterintuitive, right? You’d expect them to be so caught up in their own confusion that they would hardly have time for anyone else. But that’s not the case.

Often, they’re the ones who lend a sympathetic ear, absorbing stories, advice, and experiences of those around them. It’s as if they’re trying to find their own answers through other people’s narratives.

Yet, while this empathetic nature makes them great friends and confidantes, it also reinforces their struggle. They get so entangled in others’ dreams and aspirations that they find it even more difficult to distinguish their own desires.

So don’t mistake their listening skills for contentment or lack of ambition. It’s a coping mechanism, a way of searching for clarity in the fog of uncertainty.

3) They tend to form codependent relationships

Another common trait I’ve noticed is the tendency to form codependent relationships. Now, this doesn’t mean they’re incapable of healthy relationships. It’s just that their struggle to articulate their own desires often leads them into dynamics where they overly rely on their partner for validation and direction.

In these relationships, they might put their partner’s needs above their own, all the while neglecting what they truly want. It’s a pattern that can be tricky to break, but not impossible.

In fact, in my book Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship, I delve into strategies to recognise and overcome this pattern.

But again, it’s important to remember that this behavior is not a character flaw. It’s a coping mechanism, albeit a harmful one. Recognizing and understanding it is the first step towards finding a healthier approach to relationships and ultimately, a clearer vision of what they want in life.

4) They often feel lost

Feeling adrift is a common sentiment among those who struggle to articulate their desires. It’s as if they’re in a vast ocean without a compass, unsure of the direction they should be heading.

In my personal interactions, I’ve often heard statements like “I just feel lost” or “I don’t know where I’m going”. It’s tough to hear, and even tougher to experience.

It reminds me of a famous quote by J.R.R. Tolkien, “Not all those who wander are lost.” Yet, for these individuals, wandering without a destination can indeed feel like being lost.

But it’s important to remember that feeling lost doesn’t equate to failure. It’s just a sign that they’re still searching, still trying to figure out what they want from life. And that’s perfectly okay. After all, life isn’t a race, it’s a journey of discovery.

5) They’re prone to anxiety and stress

It’s no surprise that with all the indecision and feelings of being lost, these individuals often face higher levels of anxiety and stress. The constant pressure of not knowing what they want can take a toll on their mental health.

In my own experience, I’ve seen how this uncertainty can lead to sleepless nights, a restless mind, and a constant state of worry. It’s a heavy load to bear, and one that often goes unnoticed by others.

Anxiety and stress are not just emotional states, they can have physical repercussions too. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings and seek help if needed. There’s no shame in reaching out. Remember, it’s okay not to have all the answers. Life is a learning process, after all.

6) They’re often perceived as aimless

Being unable to articulate what they want in life can sometimes lead others to perceive these individuals as aimless or without direction. It can feel like they’re just floating through life, passively accepting what comes their way.

In my journey as a relationship expert, I’ve often heard people describe them as “floating”, “drifting”, or “just going with the flow”. But underneath that seemingly calm surface, there’s often a whirlpool of emotions and confusion.

As Albert Einstein once said, “Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted.” Just because their goals aren’t clearly defined or visible to others doesn’t mean they lack purpose or passion.

Understanding these individuals requires empathy and patience. So, let’s not be too quick to judge. Instead, let’s extend our support and help guide them towards their true desires.

For more insights and articles on understanding human behavior and relationships, do follow me on Facebook. Let’s continue this journey of understanding together.

7) They often experience feelings of emptiness

Lastly, but perhaps most painfully, these individuals often grapple with a profound sense of emptiness. It’s as if there’s a void within them that they can’t quite fill, no matter what they do.

This emptiness isn’t about loneliness or a lack of companionship. It’s a result of their struggle to identify their own wants and desires. When you’re unsure of what you truly want in life, it can feel like you’re missing a vital piece of yourself.

This raw and honest admission isn’t easy to make or to hear. But it’s crucial for understanding their inner turmoil.

So, if you or someone you know is experiencing this, remember, it’s okay to feel this way. It’s okay to not have all the answers. And most importantly, it’s okay to ask for help. There are always people willing to lend an ear and help guide you towards finding your true desires.

Reflecting on the journey

As we traverse through life’s labyrinth, understanding our wants and desires can be a daunting task. It’s a journey that requires introspection, patience, and sometimes, a little bit of guidance.

Within each of us lies a unique blueprint of desires and goals. For some, articulating these can be as natural as breathing. For others, it’s like trying to catch a cloud. It can feel elusive, confusing, and at times, incredibly frustrating.

But remember, it’s okay to feel lost at times. It’s okay to not have all the answers. The beauty of life lies in its unpredictability and the endless possibilities it presents.

In his deeply personal video, Justin Brown dives into the heart of what it means to commit to being single not as a permanent state, but as a meaningful phase of growth, self-discovery, and personal commitment. He talks about singleness, the beauty of self-commitment, and how life’s fluidity allows us to embrace every phase with open arms.

YouTube video

This video is a testament to the importance of self-discovery and introspection in understanding what we truly desire in life. It beautifully encapsulates the struggles that come with articulating our wants and needs.

As we conclude this journey of understanding, remember that every struggle is an opportunity for growth. Take your time, embrace the journey, and most importantly, be kind to yourself. You’re doing just fine.

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