Do you ever wonder if you’re on the right track in life? Maybe lately, things seem to be falling into place a bit. 

It doesn’t mean everything’s perfect or super easy, but it’s enough to make you wonder if you might actually be heading in the right direction.

It’s totally normal to want some confirmation that you’re doing okay. You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way, we all go through it!

The good news is: you don’t have to just guess or go with your gut on this one. 

There are some clear signs, backed up by psychology, that can tell you if you’re on the right path.

So, let’s check out these signs together and see how many of them you see in your life. 

1) You see challenges as opportunities 

How do you see the challenges and obstacles that come your way? 

Do they feel like roadblocks, or do you see them as chances to grow and get better?

Seeing challenges as opportunities is a huge sign that you’ve got what’s called a “growth mindset.” a term coined by psychologist Carol Dweck. 

When you have a growth mindset, you believe that you can develop and improve through effort, learning, and persistence.

Research shows that people with a growth mindset are more likely to persevere when things get tough, see challenges as opportunities to learn and improve, and ultimately achieve more in the long run.

Viewing challenges this way is a big indicator that you’re already on the right path in life. 

It means you’re in the right headspace to tackle whatever comes your way, and you’ve got what it takes to succeed and overcome.

2) You’ve got goals and you’re pursuing them

What are your goals in life? Do you know what you need to do to get where you want to go? 

It might seem straightforward, but it’s really a big deal. 

Having a vision for your life and setting goals to help get you there is a major indicator that you’re on the right path.

As you grow and learn more about yourself and the world around you, it’s natural for your aspirations to evolve and your goals can change, that’s okay. 

This flexibility can help keep your journey fresh and exciting.

“Setting goals not only motivates us but can also improve our mental health and our level of personal and professional success,” notes Leslie Riopel, MSc, a professor of psychology. 

By simply having goals that you’re actively pursuing, even if they shift along the way, you’re already much more likely to experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. 

Chasing your goals is a sign you’re on the right path in life, kudos to you. 

3) You’re not easily swayed by other people’s opinions

When we’re kids, we lean a lot on our parents, right? They’re like our guidebooks for how to handle life. 

As we get older, though, we start to rely more on our friends, often letting their opinions influence our choices.

But there comes a point when you listen to what others have to say, you appreciate their views, but they don’t push you one way or another. 

You make your own decisions.

In psychology, this concept is known as differentiation of self and it’s crucial for personal development. 

It’s about finding your own way in life, which is essential for your personal satisfaction and overall well-being.

I felt myself becoming more differentiated in my late 20s when my best friend’s opinion on my new job didn’t sway me at all. 

I appreciated her input but ultimately made my own decision. 

When you’re not easily swayed by the opinions of others, it’s a clear sign you’re on the right path in life, truly owning your decisions and your journey.

4) You’re living and acting in line with your personal values 

Another sign that you’re on the right path in life is that you’re living according to your values.

Have you ever stopped to think about what your values are? 

They’re the things that really matter to you, the principles you hold dear no matter what happens. 

Maybe it’s being honest, showing kindness, or always striving to do your best. These core beliefs are what guide your decisions and actions every day.

Dr. Brené Brown puts it perfectly: “Living into our values means that we do more than profess our values, we practice them. We walk our talk—in the world, with our families, and in our communities.”

This means making choices that align with these beliefs, doing what feels right deep down, not just what looks good or meets others’ expectations.

And it has a big impact: research finds that living life according to your values positively increases happiness, well-being, and life satisfaction.

So, if you find yourself making decisions that resonate with your core values, that’s a pretty strong sign you’re steering your life in the right direction.

5) You’re open to new experiences and embracing change

Change is a constant in life, and new experiences can sometimes be intimidating, right?  

But that doesn’t stop you from diving in headfirst. You know that nothing stays the same for long and you can either get on board or get left behind. 

As Jeff Bezos wisely said, “What’s dangerous is not to evolve.” This is a testament to the importance of adapting and growing as the world shifts around us.

Various research has linked being open to new experiences with creativity, intelligence, innovation, and a better ability to manage life’s inevitable changes. 

The thing is: openness isn’t just about trying new things; it’s about embracing change as it comes, seeing it as an opportunity to expand your horizons.

Being eager and open to embrace change, is a strong sign you’re on the right path in life. 

6) You practice gratitude

It might be hard to believe that something as simple as practicing gratitude is a sign that you’re on the right path in life, but it really is. 

Gratitude is all about being thankful for what you’ve already got. It’s shining a spotlight on the blessings you have instead of focusing on what’s missing.

And that’s crucial for well-being, happiness, and success in life. 

American psychologist Martin Seligman put it simply “Gratitude can make your life happier and more satisfying.”

And he’s right: Studies show that gratitude has many benefits including: 

• Increases happiness
• Improves sleep quality
• Releases toxic emotions
• Reduces stress, anxiety and depression

Appreciating what you’ve already got in life and being thankful is a simple but powerful sign that you’re on a very good track in life. 

7) You’re not afraid to say ‘no’

Saying ‘no’ might sound simple, but it’s often anything but, right?

When we have to turn down someone or something, it usually feels like we’re letting someone down. Nobody likes to feel that way.

Up until a few years ago, I really struggled with this. 

I found myself always taking on extra work, saying yes to too many social invites, and generally overdoing it. 

Eventually, I ended up feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. I knew something had to change.

That’s when I first learned about the power of setting boundaries. 

As psychologist Dr. Henry Cloud has said, “Boundaries define us. They define what is me and what is not me. A boundary shows me where I end and someone else begins, leading me to a sense of ownership.” 

Understanding this helped me see that saying no is not just okay; it’s necessary to maintain my health, my well-being, and my relationships.

If, like me, you’ve learned how to say no to others to protect your well-being, it’s a clear sign you’re in control and on track to live a fulfilling and balanced life. 

Final thoughts

How many of these signs do you see in yourself? 

If you recognize a few of the signs we’ve discussed within yourself, you can be confident you’re on the right path in life. 

Chances are, you’re doing better than you think.