Getting Lost

By C. Clark

Introduction

I’ve read so many career books over the years that I’ve lost count. A good number of them suggest looking into the things that bring you joy—both past and present. I haven’t been particularly successful with that approach, but I still believe there’s something to it, especially when I think about The Artist Date from Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way.

So, I’m starting with one of my favorite things to do. I haven’t done it much lately, and I’m not quite sure what career insight it will offer—but I know it brings me joy. And maybe, that’s enough for now.

Driving to Get Lost

I absolutely love getting in my car with a full tank of gas, some good music, and no particular destination. Just driving—intentionally getting lost. Exploring streets I’ve never been on, neighborhoods I’ve never seen. I’ll keep an eye out for new places to return to later: a cozy bookstore, an old movie theater, a tucked-away café.

And here’s the twist: I make my way back without a map, and definitely without GPS. I’ve been doing this for years, long before smartphones told us where to go.

Is there a career message in all this? Maybe it’s about a spirit of adventure. Maybe it’s just about enjoyment—and maybe that’s okay.

It reminds me of a career assessment I once took in school. One of the results? Bus driver. According to the test, I’d be great at it because I said I loved driving. Nothing wrong with being a bus driver—but I knew even then that wasn’t for me. The answer was too literal. Too small for the freedom I felt when driving on my own.

Usually, writing helps me uncover patterns. But today, the only thing that’s showing up is joy. And maybe that’s the clue.

Freedom in the Details

What exactly do I love about “getting lost”? Maybe if I look closely, I’ll find some breadcrumbs that point toward a future path.

First off: I have to go alone. That’s non-negotiable. When I’m alone, I don’t have to worry about boring anyone, driving too slow, or making a wrong turn. I can stop whenever I want. Change direction. Take pictures. Follow my instincts. It’s total freedom, without the pressure of anyone else’s expectations.

That mirrors how I’ve sometimes answered job interview questions. When asked if I work well in a group, I’ve always said yes—because that’s what companies want to hear. And it’s true—I can work well in a group. But the truth is, I thrive when I’m doing my own thing.

When I’m driving solo, I can sing at the top of my lungs. I can blast music or sit in complete silence. That solitude? It’s when I do my best thinking—my most creative thinking.

I’m reminded of all the “vanlife” videos I’ve been watching lately. It’s kind of like that. I could bring food and drinks, a change of clothes, my camera gear... and just go. Explore. Create.

Maybe all of that doesn’t add up to a clear next step just yet. Maybe the message is still unfolding. Maybe I need to sit with it a little longer.

But I know this much: getting lost helps me find something. Even if it’s just myself.