Step Into The Lab: Experiment Your Way to a New Life

"Life is an experiment in which you may fail or succeed. Explore more, expect least." – Santosh Kalwar

When I look back to my days as a pre-med student, I remember the thrill of running experiments, handling delicate equipment, and testing hypotheses to uncover new insights. Ironically, one of my greatest discoveries wasn’t in the lab at all – it was that I was far more captivated by business than medicine. So, I switched majors, taking a leap into a new field that felt more in tune with my strengths and aspirations. That decision taught me something invaluable: life, like science, is a series of experiments.

Today, when I think about experiments, I view them through a different lens. Our lives are our personal research laboratories, and experimenting isn't reserved for scientists alone. Every day, we gather data, test our theories, and learn from what works and what doesn’t. Whenever we feel the urge for change or growth, we can approach it like an experiment – methodically, with curiosity and open-mindedness. By applying the scientific method to our lives, we gain insights that can lead us to more fulfilling paths.

The Life Experiment: Applying the Scientific Method

The scientific method, a structured approach to knowledge discovery, has been used for centuries to solve complex questions. But it isn’t just for scientists – it’s a tool we can all use to guide our personal growth and career decisions. Whether you’re exploring a new career or considering a major life change, applying these steps can offer clarity and direction. Let’s break down how the scientific method can help you explore a career in web development (or any other field you’re curious about).

Step 1: Define the Question

The first step is to clearly define what you’re trying to answer. Vague questions lead to vague answers, so it’s important to be as specific as possible. In this case, you might ask: "Would a career as a web developer be fulfilling for me as I consider my next steps?" Notice how it’s not just “Should I become a web developer?” but instead frames the question around fulfillment, growth, and fit.

A clear question serves as a foundation for all the steps that follow, so take your time here. Think about what truly matters to you. Is it the type of work, the lifestyle, the growth potential, or something else?

Step 2: Conduct Research

Now, it’s time to gather information. Treat this like a fact-finding mission. What does a web developer’s day-to-day look like? What skills and qualifications are required? How is the field evolving, and what trends should you be aware of?

Start with online research, but don’t stop there. Reach out to people in the field, attend informational interviews, join online forums, or even shadow someone if possible. These real-world insights can be invaluable. Be open to learning things that may challenge your initial assumptions. The goal here isn’t to confirm what you already think but to learn as much as you can with a curious, open mind.

Step 3: Formulate a Hypothesis

Once you’ve gathered information, form a hypothesis: a testable, educated guess based on what you know so far. This could be something like, “Based on my background and skills, plus some additional training, I believe a transition into web development could be both achievable and fulfilling.”

Think of your hypothesis as a springboard, a theory you can test. This isn’t a firm commitment to change your career but rather a basis for experimentation. Consider what aspects of web development (or your chosen field) resonate with you. Is it the creative problem-solving, the technical skills, or the flexibility the job offers? This will help you refine your hypothesis and narrow your focus.

Step 4: Conduct an Experiment

Now, it’s time to test your hypothesis in a low-risk, real-world way. What can you do to try out this field before fully committing? You might start by taking an online course or working on a small freelance project. These micro-experiments allow you to experience the role firsthand without major consequences.

If web development interests you, look for practical ways to engage with it. Build a basic website, explore coding tutorials, or participate in a beginner’s hackathon. Pay close attention to your reactions during these activities - are you engaged, excited, or even frustrated? This is valuable data that can guide your next steps.

Step 5: Analyze the Results

After completing your experiment, step back and assess your experience. How did it feel to dive into web development? Did it engage you and ignite your curiosity, or did you feel lukewarm about it? Reflect on what you learned and consider whether the experience aligned with your initial hypothesis.

You may conclude, “Yes, this is the path for me!” In that case, you now have a solid foundation and experience to build on. Or you might realize that web development isn’t as fulfilling as you’d hoped. Remember, that’s not a failure; it’s an essential discovery that brings you closer to the right path. If the experiment didn’t pan out as expected, consider what you’ve learned and start again with a new hypothesis.

Embrace a Life of Experimentation

The beauty of this approach is that it doesn’t involve making permanent, one-time decisions. Instead, it involves iterating, refining, and evolving. Life’s journey doesn’t have to be linear - it can be a series of curious explorations, some of which turn into long-term paths, while others serve as valuable lessons.

As W. Edwards Deming said, “Every system is perfectly designed to get the results it gets.” If you don’t like the results your life system is delivering, it’s within your power to redesign it. By experimenting with purpose, we can create a life that aligns with our values, interests, and strengths.

If you’re at a crossroads or feel it’s time for a new direction, consider approaching your next steps like a scientist. Ask questions, conduct research, and test your ideas in low-stakes ways. With each experiment, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and insight.

Everyone has the potential to craft a fulfilling life aligned with their unique purpose. It starts with curiosity, the courage to explore, and the willingness to try, fail, and learn. Your life, after all, is your personal research lab, so step into it, experiment boldly, and discover what truly works for you.