When you deviate from your path, the one that is right for you (to each their own), it’s seldom because of a swerve. More often, it’s due to the accumulation of many small turns, almost imperceptible. That’s the feeling you get when you suddenly look around and all you see is unfamiliar and unsatisfactory.
How did I get here?
If you are on a trajectory that gives you purpose, you have to invest in staying on course. It does not happen automatically, it requires effort and will, and the capability to say no, over and over again. Shortcuts, fads, occasions, distractions, are around every corner. Staying on track is the whole job.