6 Signs You’re Outgrowing Your Old Life (And What to Do About It)
Have you ever woken up one day and realized that the life you’re living just doesn’t fit anymore? Maybe the things that used to light you up now feel kind of… meh. The conversations you used to enjoy seem repetitive. The goals that once excited you? Not so much anymore.
If any of that resonates, it’s not a sign that you’re lost. It’s a sign that you’re outgrowing your old life—and that’s a good thing. Growth is supposed to happen. Evolution is part of the process. But that doesn’t mean it always feels great.
I’ve been through this many times—changing careers, ending relationships, stepping into new seasons—and let me tell you, outgrowing your old life can be confusing, scary, and even a little lonely. But knowing the signs makes it easier to recognize when it’s happening so you can step into your next level with intention.
So let’s get into it: 6 signs you’re outgrowing your old life—and what to do about it. (And if this topic is hitting home, be sure to check out the full podcast episode here for the deeper conversation!)
1. The Things That Once Excited You No Longer Do
Remember when you were obsessed with a certain TV show, a hobby, or a goal? And now? You just… don’t care anymore? That’s not laziness. That’s evolution.
Your interests, values, and passions shift as you grow. And while that’s normal, it can be unsettling—especially if people around you don’t understand why you’re not excited about the same things anymore.
What to Do:
Instead of forcing yourself to care about old interests, get curious about what excites you now. Try new things, explore different hobbies, or read books outside your usual go-to topics. Who you are today isn’t the same as who you were five years ago—so allow yourself to evolve.
2. Certain Relationships Feel Forced or Draining
One of the hardest parts of outgrowing your old life is realizing that some relationships no longer fit. Maybe a friendship that once felt effortless (like the girls from high-school) now feels like an obligation. Maybe conversations feel repetitive or surface-level. Ever get together with old friends but the only thing you all have in common is “the good ole days”? Pay attention to whether you feel drained rather than energized after spending time with certain people.
What to Do:
You don’t have to cut people off dramatically, but it’s okay to create space for new, aligned friendships. Seek out people, clubs or organizations who inspire you, challenge you, and make you feel excited about life. And most importantly—pay attention to whether you can be your true self in the relationships you’re keeping.
3. You Feel Restless—But You Don’t Know Why
Feeling antsy? Like something’s missing, but you can’t quite put your finger on what it is? That’s a sign you’re ready for a new challenge.
Restlessness is often misunderstood. We think, I should be happy. My life is fine. Why do I feel this way? But that feeling isn’t a bad thing—it’s your intuition nudging you toward your next level.
What to Do:
Follow your curiosity. Pay attention to what excites you, what interests you, and what sparks something inside you. Try journaling, vision boarding, or even just asking yourself: What would excite me right now? Your next step might not be clear yet, but trust that it’s unfolding.
4. Your Old Habits or Coping Mechanisms Don’t Feel Right Anymore
Sometimes we keep doing things out of habit—scrolling endlessly on social media, drinking every night to unwind, hanging out with the same crowd—until one day, it just doesn’t feel good anymore.
That’s a sign you’re evolving. You’re realizing that certain habits or patterns aren’t serving you the way they used to. And while that might feel weird, it’s actually a great thing.
What to Do:
Rather than forcing yourself to keep up old habits, ask yourself: What does the future version of me need? If your usual ways of coping don’t feel aligned anymore, it’s time to replace them with something that does. Maybe that means swapping social media for reading, replacing drinking with journaling, or finding new ways to decompress that actually make you feel better—not just numb.
5. You Have a Bigger Vision for Yourself
One of the clearest signs of outgrowing your old life? You’re starting to dream bigger. You’re craving more. You’re thinking about a new job, a bold move, a shift in how you show up in the world.
And yet—when you share that vision with certain people, they just don’t get it. Maybe they dismiss it. Maybe they laugh. Maybe they tell you to “be realistic.”
Here’s the truth: Not everyone will understand your next-level dreams. And that’s okay.
What to Do:
Protect your vision. Stop sharing your 10,000-foot dreams with people who can only see 200 feet ahead. Some people are eagles, soaring at high altitudes. Some people are sparrows, content flying lower. Don’t expect sparrows to understand the eagle’s view.
Instead, surround yourself with people who are also dreaming big. Find mentors, join communities, and connect with those who believe in the life you’re building.
6. Your Old Life Feels Too Small
Maybe your job feels limiting. Maybe your town feels too quiet. Maybe your daily routine feels claustrophobic.
The life that once felt safe and comfortable now feels restrictive. And while stepping into the unknown can feel terrifying, staying in a place that no longer fits is even worse.
What to Do:
Give yourself permission to expand. You don’t have to have all the answers, but you do have to be brave enough to step into what’s next. Start small—make a change, take a step, open yourself up to what’s possible.
Because you weren’t meant to shrink yourself to fit a life that no longer aligns. You were meant to grow, to evolve, and to step into the fullest version of yourself.
Final Thoughts
If any of these signs resonated, take it as confirmation: You’re not lost. You’re evolving. And that is a beautiful thing.
Instead of resisting the changes, lean into them. Trust that your next season is calling you forward for a reason. And most importantly? Give yourself permission to grow into the person you’re becoming.
Want to dive deeper into this topic? Listen to the full podcast episode here for even more insights, personal stories, and tactical advice on stepping into your next season with confidence.
And if this post spoke to you, share it with a friend who might need to hear it too. You never know who’s outgrowing their old life and needs that nudge to step forward.
