What are you supposed to be in your lifetime? What are you supposed to do when school’s out? Where will you be in five years’ time? Arrgh, if people would stop putting so much pressure on you to figure out your future in ten minutes! It’s not always easy to find the right career path for you, but that’s why it helps to suss out the situation in your own time. Here are some ways to score some clarity:
1. What do you love doing?
I don’t mean to ask you more questions, but this one’s a fun one. What is it you love doing in your spare time? Have you ever thought one of those fun hobbies or interests could result in a really cool way to earn a living? Hey, maybe you’re an awesome writer, artist or singer and the world could benefit with your creative contribution. A career is supposed to be fun seeing as though you’re going to be spending so much time at work when your job’s off the ground.
2. What’s my personality like?
Okay, so everyone knows you’re a really cool, loyal friend and you’re one happy-go-lucky chick or dude. But dig a little deeper. When picking a career, it’s important to bear in mind that it should compliment who you are. It should be like that awesome pair of jeans – accentuating your assets. So think of what your personality is like – what your likes and dislikes? Do you work best on your own or in a group? Do you enjoy socialising with people, or are you more of a loner? These are important things to know about you and can help you in figuring out your bright future.
3. What gets my heart racing?
Once you’ve taken your personality in consideration, it’s time to dream a little dream. What is it that makes you feel super amped to be alive? What are your dreams? Even when you don’t know what you’d like to do as a career, everyone’s got a dream. So now it’s time to figure out what yours is. This is what it leads to:
4. How can my dreams help me find the right career?
You love to draw? Why not do some searching on the internet to find out if there are any graphic design courses you’d be keen to try? Or, if you’re a people person and thrive on socialising, a career in hospitality or public relations could work. Jot down what you’re good at and what you love doing, and then search for possible careers that you would rock on you.
5. What’s the job really like?
You might have a glamourised idea of what your job at a magazine will be, or what you’ll be doing as an environmentalist. It helps to find out what the job is really going to be like on a daily basis. Chat to a friend who is in the field you’re interested in and get the lowdown on that career. This will give you a more realistic view of what you’re getting yourself into. Hey, it’s always good to make sure you’re hundreds on something before you leap into it.