There's a fine line between critical thinking and cynicism, pessimism, and nihilism.
https://yourmeaninginlife.com/blog/where-critical-thinking-can-be-incorrectly-applied-in-your-life
You decide what meaning the events in your life have to you.
https://yourmeaninginlife.com/blog/you-can-find-meaning-in-whatever-happens-to-you
Asking where you see yourself in five years is a good exercise to determine both where you're going and what you want to be doing today to reach your desired future state.
https://yourmeaninginlife.com/blog/where-do-you-see-yourself-in-five-years