Do you have ANY idea what you are going to do for your next career?

I get this question over and over: "Do you have ANY idea what you are going to do? Any inklings?" It is stressful question. But seemingly more stressful for the person asking it than for me. It is a shocking concept when someone hears that I have walked away from my job, so I suppose it makes the person asking it uncomfortable. Whereas I thought about this decision for months before I even came to the conclusion, then mulled it over some more. Then talked to people about it. Then thought some more. So, I am much more comfortable with my answer of "No, I do not have any idea of what I am going to do for my next career" then the person asking the question. That is precisely what this time is all about.

This time, however, is about keeping my eyes open to opportunities as someone so aptly put it. They may come in unexpected places and forms and at unexpected times. This is by no means a passive process. I am not waiting for my career to drop in my lap. I am pursuing interests, finding out what I like and don't like. Finding out what makes me tick. But there is a certain amount of balance I am trying to keep with enjoying this time and then knowing when it is time to put my nose to the grindstone. Ultimately, I think I will be guided by panic. Along these lines: "Oh my gosh. __ weeks/months have passed!! I haven't done a thing!!" That sort of feeling. I suspect I will know when it is time.

So, no. I do not have any idea what I am going to do. This is what I signed up for. Living in the question.