Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance. Know well what leads you forward and what hold you back, and choose the path that leads to wisdom. – Lord Buddha

what’s the way forward?

It’s the path that leads to most happiness for you and those around you. That way can only be discovered through wisdom. Wisdom comes from knowing thyself. Which in turn is accelerated by meditation!

the thing to do

Is to just be. Learn how to do that via meditation or stillness. Look here.

Recommendation: An Introduction to Zen Buddhism