Hey everyone, I’m 30, a woman, and working as a content strategist for a big marketing company. Lately, I’ve hit this point of existential dread where everything feels pointless. I don’t care about climbing the corporate ladder and can’t see myself in this 9-to-5 grind much longer.

The truth is, I dream of becoming a novelist or working in some niche artistic field that helps save the planet, but realistically, I don’t feel capable of it. I’ve thought about starting a business to escape the corporate cycle, but I’m lost on where to even start.

I also wanted to do something meaningful for the environment, but it feels like the world is so driven by money and capital that nothing I do will actually matter. Even going into sustainable venture capital feels dull and uninspiring. I want to do something creative and impactful, but I’m terrified I’ll never get there.

Then there’s my love life. I’ve been in love three times, all unrequited. I know I’m not unattractive, but my social awkwardness and love of solitude make me seem unapproachable. It just adds to the feeling that nothing matters, like I’m destined to be alone.

I guess what I’m really asking is: how do you push through this sense of existential despair when everything feels pointless? I am defeated.