The first time I found myself in a chaotic situation, feeling stuck and unsure, was when I was in a global role that was totally misaligned with my values.
Inside me, there was always a deep desire to be part of a consulting function (If you ask me why consulting, the answer to this lies in the many whimsical desires we hold, which often result from a lack of awareness of our values).
So,
When I was offered a role that was not a close match but the closest it could get, I accepted the offer.
It was a colossal disaster
The work and its challenges continue to tax my limits, until I reached a point where there were no options left but to quit.
I was stuck in that role, which underwent many changes, including a change of leadership, a role description and even a shift of power between India and its global counterpart; however, I stayed in it, battling and thinking somehow, I have to figure it out.
So here I was believing myself to be a mountaineer, well-trained to hike to the summit. While it turns out, I was emotionally exhausted not because I was on a treacherous route BUT I was investing my energies in climbing a Wrong Mountain.
All my training to hike a mountain assisted me to move up, but what’s the point when I’ was on a totally wrong mountain, any move I made pushed me further into a mess.
Emotional exhaustion is when even rest doesn’t feel restful, because the weight you carry is on the inside.
If this resonates,
Here are four questions that may help you NOT climb the wrong mountain: grab a notepad, set aside some time, and once you have written your responses, deeply reflect.
- What does success look like for you now — not what it meant 10 years ago, but what feels meaningful today?
- Which parts of your LIFE energize you, and which parts consistently drain you?
- If you had the freedom to start fresh, WHAT will you be curious to explore?
- Imagine yourself 5–10 years from now — what would you thank your present self for choosing differently?
These questions are a starting point, if you want to explore more, here is the Guided Journaling service assisting you in moving, getting unstuck, and avoiding climbing the wrong mountain again.
If you feel ready to understand yourself at a deeper level, let’s have a conversation. No pressure. Just clarity.
→ Book your free 60-minute Clarity Call: tidycal.com/mehnazamjad/60-minute-meeting
Warmly,
Mehnaz Amjad.
Guiding Midlife Adults from Emotional Exhaustion to Inner Clarity | CBT-Informed | Bespoke 1:1 Work