Hey Reader,
Last week, we talked about clarity - and how it doesn't arrive in a lightning bolt (if you missed it, you can read it here).
But here's what I didn't mention: even when you start building that clarity, the overwhelm doesn't magically disappear. You've taken that first small step, but now you're staring at a dozen possible paths, paralysed by the fear of choosing wrong.
For introverts especially, this in-between space can feel excruciating.
You want to move forward, but the thought of making the 'wrong' choice feels like wasted energy you simply don't have.
I know this feels risky when you're already running on empty. But staying stuck costs more energy than one small experiment.
This is where prototyping comes in.
Unbound Shift: you don't need a plan. You need a test.
In the world of life design, a prototype isn't a fully formed idea or five-year plan. It's a way to explore a possibility before you commit to it.
Think of it as a micro-experiment. One that helps you gather real information about what energises you, what drains you, and what might be worth pursuing.
The goal of a prototype isn't to succeed - it's to learn: what lights you up. What feels clunky? What raises new questions?
So, what does prototyping actually look like?
There are three kinds of prototypes I recommend starting with, especially if you're introverted, short on time, or feeling unsure.
Each one is designed to be small, low-risk, and real.
1. The Conversation Prototype
Test a possible path by speaking to someone who's already doing it.
- Considering a career change? Talk to someone who made a similar shift after 35 and ask: "What did you wish you'd known beforehand?"
- Wondering about freelancing? Reach out to someone in your field who went independent: "What surprised you most about working for yourself?"
Choose someone whose energy you find calming rather than draining. A 20-minute chat often tells you more than hours of research.
You're not asking for a job. You're gathering insight and noticing how your body responds to what you hear.
2. The Experience Prototype
Try on a version of the life you're considering - without blowing up your current one.
- Thinking about relocating? Spend a long weekend in a city you're considering and work from there for a day.
- Wondering about freelancing? Take on one small project this month alongside your current role (free or paid).
- Curious about a different industry? Volunteer for a day or attend one networking event in that field.
This isn't about dramatic life changes. It's about small experiments that respect your need for processing time.
Look for what gives you energy...and what doesn't.
3. The Creation Prototype
Make something small that brings your idea into the real world.
- Exploring writing? Write an article/ blog post about something you care about, even if you're not publishing it online.
- Considering coaching or consulting? Offer to help one friend or colleague work through a challenge they're facing.
- Thinking about teaching? Record a 10-minute voice note explaining one concept you're passionate about.
Start with an audience of one. Your goal isn't validation - it's understanding how the act of creating feels in your body.
The aim here is expression, not perfection.
Unbound Step: design your own prototype.
This week, choose just one prototype.
Set a timer for 15 minutes and plan it. That's it. No execution pressure. JUST planning.
Sometimes the act of designing the experiment teaches you as much as doing it.
Start with:
- a one-day experiment
- a 15-minute conversation
- or a small creative output you can reflect on
You're not trying to prove anything. You're gathering data. Because clarity doesn't come from overthinking. It comes from trying.
And if your prototype feels awful? That's valuable data too. You're allowed to stop, pivot, or try something completely different.
Sometimes the most important thing a test teaches you is what you definitely don't want (for me that's anything that involves cold outreach or selling).
If you're still stuck, ask yourself this: What's one low-pressure way I could explore this idea, just for a day?
Then do that. That's your prototype.
Hit reply and tell me which prototype you're considering. I read every response, and sometimes just naming it makes it real.
In your corner always,
Sam 💛
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Sam Sheppard
Introvert Life Design Strategist
I share practical tools to help you design a life that actually fits.
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