Published July 31, 2025
“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I – I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” Robert Frost
This quote may sound familiar to you. “The Road Not Taken” is a poem by Robert Frost, first published in an issue of Atlantic Monthly – August 1915.
The two roads represent our decisions in life. In this poem, the person chooses the path that has less wear and tear, the one that’s off the beaten path. What would have happened if the other path was chosen?
Whether you’re widowed, divorced, lost your job, moved across the country (or world), couldn’t have kids, or whatever life situation you’ve experienced which you didn’t see coming, I am here to present the possibility that you can have more than one path and still be happy.
You are not meant to live a single and straightforward path. There are no promises, no guarantees. The only certainty we truly have, and must accept, is that life can be full of uncertainties. I’m not saying to never plan. I’m also not suggesting you be irresponsible. All I’m trying to get you to think about is that yes, let’s live responsibly and make good choices, but let’s also keep an open mind to the many paths which can present themselves in the coming months and years.
From one of my previous blogs, What Path Are You On, I opened up about my realization that just because my path isn’t what I thought it would be, doesn’t mean that the rest of my life will be bad. All of us can still have fulfilling and meaningful lives! None of us truly know our future paths. And if someone tells you they’ve got every detail figured out, down to when they will retire and where they will be living, then they are fooling themselves. At some point, they are going to encounter a surprise that takes them off their planned path.
If your mind is open and willing to accept new experiences and opportunities, the greater the chances that you will find a new path which builds your inner peace and happiness.
I’ve learned to not say “no” right away. Why not try? The instinct is to retrieve back into our shell, our comfort zone. So saying “no” feels comfortable because we can protect ourselves by living our old way and with our old habits. But how are we ever going to grow if we stay in our shell? Therefore, I’ve learned to allow the situation or opportunity to sink in, I give myself time to ponder it, and then I respond. It could still be a “no” but only after giving it proper thought and consideration.
Sure, the new situation could be challenging. It could also feel scary and involve some level of risk. However, we must push ourselves to new ways of thinking, be flexible in our decision-making, and be open about opportunities that may come our way.
I believe that the term “soulmate” or someone that is “perfect for you” is not a single-handed term. Instead, I believe there are other people out there who can also be “perfect for you” and that there is more than one “soulmate” out there for you. I really do, but some of you may disagree. But let me ask you this. Have you ever thought that if you lived in a different town, went to another college, or changed your career that your current life situation would be completely different? You might have married someone else, been promoted at your job, maybe not divorced, or whatever life is presenting to you right now. Just reflect on it for a few days. Think about Robert Frost’s poem. What if you had chosen the road less traveled?
I encourage you to stay open minded. Be willing to try new things. Try to meet new people. Don’t be afraid to wander out of your comfort zone. In this process, you’ll discover new paths, make new friends, and eventually realize that you are capable of living a life that can be fulfilling and joyful. Remember, God may put things in front of you to guide you towards a certain direction. Don’t ignore His signs, as they could lead you toward a promising path!
It’s all to prove my point that we can have more than one path and still be happy. Believe in it, manifest it. And follow me on Instagram @sincerelyjulie_joyful_living for daily inspiration on how to empower your journey and reclaim happiness. You can also email me directly at inquiry@sincerelyjulie.com or comment below.