Life often feels like a race against time. Whether you’re 20, 40, or 60, there’s a nagging voice that sometimes whispers, “You’re late.” But what if you’re not late at all? What if you’re simply in your Season 1?
Many beloved TV series begin with characters who are clueless about their goals or how to achieve them. Think of classics like Friends, The Office, or Breaking Bad. These series didn’t start with their protagonists at the peak of their journeys. Instead, they started with awkward first steps, mistakes, and moments of doubt. Season 1 is rarely glamorous, yet it lays the foundation for the greatness to come.
Season 1: The Setup, Not the Summary
In life, as in TV, the first season is about exploration. It’s when you figure out what works, what doesn’t, and who you are becoming. The characters we grow to love don’t know their full potential in Season 1. They stumble through odd jobs, complicated relationships, and missteps that, in hindsight, were pivotal to their growth.
Your life might be following a similar arc. Perhaps you’re juggling different interests, questioning your choices, or feeling unsure about the future. That’s normal. Great stories are messy in the beginning.
Embracing the Unknown
Most successful series don’t reveal their overarching narrative from the start. Game of Thrones begins with politics and intrigue before unveiling dragons and destiny. Parks and Recreation started as a quirky local government sitcom before evolving into a heartfelt exploration of ambition and community.
Likewise, your life’s story may have layers yet to unfold. It’s okay to not have all the answers right now. The process of discovery—those “pilot episodes” of trial and error—adds depth to your journey.
Late Starts Are Not Failures
Some of the most iconic characters achieve their breakthroughs later in their arcs. Walter White doesn’t break bad until his mid-life crisis. Leslie Knope doesn’t achieve her ambitions overnight. Their journeys remind us that being “late” often just means arriving on time for your own story.
Similarly, countless real-world figures began their Season 1 long after society told them they were “too old.” Vera Wang didn’t design her first dress until her 40s. Colonel Sanders franchised KFC in his 60s. Their success wasn’t diminished by the timing—it was enhanced by the richness of their experiences.
Writing Your Script
If you’re in your Season 1, take heart. Focus on building your character, learning from challenges, and exploring your passions. Remember, the best series build anticipation by letting the plot unfold naturally. Your story is no different.
Every great show starts somewhere, and every person’s journey begins with a Season 1. Don’t rush the process. Give yourself permission to explore, fail, and grow. After all, the best is yet to come.