STARTING AFTER 30 | FINDING THAT HUNGER AGAIN

Let’s be real—finding the time, the budget, or even the willingness to start over in a new career is hard enough. But you know what’s even harder? Finding that hunger again.

Remember when you were younger, chasing your first career, your first job, or your first business idea? Back then, life was simpler. Sure, you had school, friends, and maybe some time-management struggles, but the stakes weren’t as high. If you were determined, you could sacrifice a few hangouts and channel your energy into your goals. You were fearless—willing to travel long distances for networking events, work for free, or take on projects that gave way more experience than pay. You had that fire, that hunger.

Fast forward a few years. Now, life is more complicated. There’s rent to pay, maybe a partner, possibly kids, and a never-ending list of responsibilities. But here you are, ready to take a shot at something new, something that makes you happy. The challenge? Time feels limited, energy is drained, and that hunger you used to have? It’s buried under hesitation.

You second-guess opportunities:
“It’s too far.”
“It’ll take too much time.”
“Am I even qualified for this?”

But here’s the truth: this hesitation can block your progress. As John C. Maxwell said in Talent Is Never Enough: “The moment we stop grabbing opportunities, they stop coming.” That hunger you once had? It’s still in you—it just needs to be reignited.

Here are five ways to revive your hunger after 30 and move toward your dreams with purpose:

1. THE RULES OF SUCCESS HAVEN’T CHANGED

The formula for success—work hard, work smart, grab opportunities, network, and hone your skills—hasn’t changed. It worked when you were younger, and it will work now. Yes, it’s harder with more responsibilities, but it’s not impossible.

Reflect on how you succeeded before. What steps did you take? What mindset drove you? Tap into that same determination. Success requires consistent effort and the courage to say yes to opportunities, even when they demand energy or time you think you don’t have. Remember, this intensity is temporary. It won’t always be this tough, but you have to show up now to create momentum.

2. BUILD A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM

In all honesty, juggling a new dream alongside your current life is exhausting. But a solid support system can make all the difference. This could be your partner, family, friends, or even an online community.

Your support system is there to cheer you on, push you when you’re ready to give up, and help lighten your load—whether that means babysitting, picking up groceries, or just being a listening ear. And if no one is available to support you right now? Be your own biggest cheerleader. Sometimes, the strongest support comes from within.

3. CREATE YOUR PERSONAL MANTRA

When the going gets tough, a personal mantra can keep you focused. It doesn’t need to sound profound to anyone else; it just needs to resonate with you.

For example:

• “I am capable. I am strong. I’ve got this.”

• “If the Universe put me here, I’m equipped to succeed.”

• “I have the time, the energy, and the will to win.”

Repeat these words when doubt creeps in. They’ll give you the mental boost to push through tough moments. Sometimes, a strong mindset is all you need to unlock the physical energy to move forward.

4. ORGANIZE YOUR TIME LIKE A PRO

Burnout is the enemy, and the best way to avoid it is through meticulous organization. Write down everything you need to handle each day, week, or month. Look for those little pockets of “free” time, and use them wisely.

With a clear view of your schedule, you can balance your responsibilities with your dreams—and carve out essential moments for rest. Don’t just plan to work hard; plan to rest hard, too. You can’t give your best if you’re running on empty.

5. CELEBRATE EVERY WIN

In the beginning, progress can feel painfully slow. But every step counts. Did you attend a networking event? Land a small gig? Complete a free project that boosted your portfolio? These are all wins.

Write them down. Reflect on them. These little victories are proof that you’re moving in the right direction. They’ll keep you motivated when the journey feels overwhelming. Focus on the progress, no matter how small, and let it fuel your determination to keep going.

Reigniting your hunger after 30 is no easy feat, but it’s absolutely possible. Once you start taking action—step by step—you’ll feel that spark reignite. Before you know it, that spark will grow into a full-blown flame, driving you closer to your dreams with every opportunity you seize.

Grow at your pace. You deserve to win.