9 answers
Bawar
Student
Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
1
Question
Updated
615 views
How Can I Discover My Talents and Find a Career Path I Truly Love ?
Hello everyone,
I’m currently an administrator at a company’s employment office, but I’m on a journey to discover my true passion and career path. I understand that the best career for me should align with my abilities and interests, allowing me to work with enthusiasm rather than just waiting for the day to end.
Here’s some background about me:
My colleagues say I’m very talkative and good at communicating with people, especially in commercial fields.
Five years ago, I dreamed of becoming a bodybuilding coach, as fitness and supplements fascinated me. Back then, I could work for 12 hours without feeling tired. However, I’m not sure if I still have the same passion for it.
I graduated with a degree in database technology. While I have skills in technology, I find that I’m more of a social and community-oriented person. I thrive when working with people and enjoy leadership roles.
People often say I have strong leadership skills, patience, responsibility, and loyalty. They also mention that I leave a positive impact wherever I go.
On the downside, I’m a deep thinker, which sometimes leads to social anxiety.
I know I want to build something of my own and create a career that reflects my strengths. However, I’m struggling to identify my talents, abilities, and the right path for me.
I’d love to hear advice from professionals and experts:
How can I identify my true talents and abilities?
How can I find a career path that aligns with my personality, interests, and skills?
Thank you for taking the time to read my story and share your insights.
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9 answers
Nabil Algamoudi
IT Support
3
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Nabil’s Answer
Finding a fulfilling career starts with understanding yourself—your strengths, passions, and what truly excites you. Here are some steps that can help you figure it out:
1. Discover Your Strengths
Think about what you’re naturally good at. Your colleagues say you’re great at communicating and building connections, especially in commercial settings. That’s a real talent! Reflect on times you’ve been successful in these areas—what were you doing, and why did it work so well? Tools like CliftonStrengths or even free surveys like the VIA Character Strengths Survey can give you a clearer picture of your abilities.
2. Explore Your Passions
Passions can evolve, so don’t worry if your interest in bodybuilding coaching has shifted. Ask yourself: what activities make you feel energized or lose track of time? Write them down. You could also try out new things—volunteer, take a class, or pick up a small project in areas you’re curious about. Experimenting can be a great way to reignite an old passion or discover a new one.
3. Find Careers That Fit
Start matching your strengths and passions to potential careers. For example, your knack for communication and connecting with people could shine in roles like coaching, human resources, training, or customer relationship management. If you still care about health and wellness, maybe look into roles that blend this with people skills, like wellness coaching or program development.
You can also take online career quizzes, like CareerExplorer or the O*NET Interest Profiler, to see what fits your skills and interests. And don’t hesitate to reach out to people in industries that interest you—ask them about their jobs and what they love about them.
4. Stay Engaged
You’ve mentioned that you want work to be more than just waiting for 5 PM. Think about what makes you feel most alive—helping others, solving problems, creating something new? Look for roles that allow you to do these things. Engagement often comes from knowing your work makes a difference, so consider jobs or industries that align with your values.
5. Build a Plan
Once you have a sense of direction, create a roadmap. For instance:
Short-term goal: Take a course or attend a workshop to build new skills.
Long-term goal: Set a vision for where you want to be in 3-5 years.
Upskilling is a big part of this. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or even YouTube can help you build expertise.
6. Use the Right Resources
- Books: Check out *What Color Is Your Parachute?* by Richard Bolles or *StrengthsFinder 2.0* by Tom Rath for guidance.
- Networking: LinkedIn is a great place to connect with professionals and explore career paths.
7. Keep Reflecting
Passions and priorities change over time—it’s normal. Make it a habit to check in with yourself every few months. Are you still feeling excited about your direction? If not, adjust as needed.
By taking small, deliberate steps and staying open to growth, you can find a career that aligns with who you are and what you love to do. It’s a journey, but with every step, you’ll get closer to a fulfilling, meaningful career.
Hope this helps! Take your time, explore, and trust the process—you’ll figure it out! 😊
1. Discover Your Strengths
Think about what you’re naturally good at. Your colleagues say you’re great at communicating and building connections, especially in commercial settings. That’s a real talent! Reflect on times you’ve been successful in these areas—what were you doing, and why did it work so well? Tools like CliftonStrengths or even free surveys like the VIA Character Strengths Survey can give you a clearer picture of your abilities.
2. Explore Your Passions
Passions can evolve, so don’t worry if your interest in bodybuilding coaching has shifted. Ask yourself: what activities make you feel energized or lose track of time? Write them down. You could also try out new things—volunteer, take a class, or pick up a small project in areas you’re curious about. Experimenting can be a great way to reignite an old passion or discover a new one.
3. Find Careers That Fit
Start matching your strengths and passions to potential careers. For example, your knack for communication and connecting with people could shine in roles like coaching, human resources, training, or customer relationship management. If you still care about health and wellness, maybe look into roles that blend this with people skills, like wellness coaching or program development.
You can also take online career quizzes, like CareerExplorer or the O*NET Interest Profiler, to see what fits your skills and interests. And don’t hesitate to reach out to people in industries that interest you—ask them about their jobs and what they love about them.
4. Stay Engaged
You’ve mentioned that you want work to be more than just waiting for 5 PM. Think about what makes you feel most alive—helping others, solving problems, creating something new? Look for roles that allow you to do these things. Engagement often comes from knowing your work makes a difference, so consider jobs or industries that align with your values.
5. Build a Plan
Once you have a sense of direction, create a roadmap. For instance:
Short-term goal: Take a course or attend a workshop to build new skills.
Long-term goal: Set a vision for where you want to be in 3-5 years.
Upskilling is a big part of this. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or even YouTube can help you build expertise.
6. Use the Right Resources
- Books: Check out *What Color Is Your Parachute?* by Richard Bolles or *StrengthsFinder 2.0* by Tom Rath for guidance.
- Networking: LinkedIn is a great place to connect with professionals and explore career paths.
7. Keep Reflecting
Passions and priorities change over time—it’s normal. Make it a habit to check in with yourself every few months. Are you still feeling excited about your direction? If not, adjust as needed.
By taking small, deliberate steps and staying open to growth, you can find a career that aligns with who you are and what you love to do. It’s a journey, but with every step, you’ll get closer to a fulfilling, meaningful career.
Hope this helps! Take your time, explore, and trust the process—you’ll figure it out! 😊
Dr H
157
Answers
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Bawar! Let’s get you out of the “clock-watching 5 PM countdown” and into a career that makes Mondays exciting (okay, maybe tolerable). 🎉 Here’s how to unearth your hidden talents and find your passion without turning it into a therapy session.
Step 1: Audit Your Awesomeness 📝
Take stock of what you already rock at. Your colleagues say you're a communication ninja in commercial settings. That's a big deal! Imagine being the secret weapon in sales, marketing, or even starting your own business where you get to flex those people skills.
Step 2: Bodybuilder Brainstorm 🏋️♂️
You wanted to be a bodybuilding coach, so clearly, motivation and personal growth excite you. Ask yourself:
Do I still enjoy fitness, or is it more about helping others succeed?
Could I combine my love for people skills and fitness, like managing a gym or running a fitness consultancy?
Even if coaching isn’t your thing anymore, that chapter might reveal what you’re passionate about—empowering people.
Step 3: Experiment Like a Mad Scientist 🧪
The best way to find what you love? Try everything. Volunteer, take online courses, or shadow professionals in fields you’re curious about. Love the idea of marketing? Sign up for a free course. Think you’d kill it in HR? Offer to help your company’s HR team. If something feels exciting, you’re onto something. If it feels like eating kale chips, cross it off.
Step 4: Tool Time 🔧
Let’s bust out some career-discovery tools:
StrengthsFinder: Uncover what you’re naturally good at.
Myers-Briggs: Because who doesn’t love a personality test?
Career Aptitude Tests: They might sound cheesy, but they can spark ideas.
Step 5: Listen to Boredom and Excitement ⏰💡
Pay attention to what makes time fly vs. what makes it crawl. Do you light up when connecting people or solving tricky problems? That’s your career compass talking!
Step 6: Dream Big, Then Reverse Engineer It 🚀
Ask yourself, “What’s the craziest job I’d love to do if money weren’t an issue?” Then figure out small steps to get there. Want to run a company? Start with leadership courses. Want to make fitness fun again? Open a side hustle training office workers on how not to turn into pretzels at their desks.
Final Words of Wisdom:
Finding your dream career isn’t about diving into a “passion pit” and magically emerging with answers—it’s more like speed-dating different skills and industries until you find your match. Remember, even the world’s happiest people have bad workdays. (Yes, even Beyoncé.)
So go ahead, experiment, laugh at your stumbles, and don’t stop until your career feels like you’re living, not just working. You’ve got this, Bawar! 🚀🎯
Step 1: Audit Your Awesomeness 📝
Take stock of what you already rock at. Your colleagues say you're a communication ninja in commercial settings. That's a big deal! Imagine being the secret weapon in sales, marketing, or even starting your own business where you get to flex those people skills.
Step 2: Bodybuilder Brainstorm 🏋️♂️
You wanted to be a bodybuilding coach, so clearly, motivation and personal growth excite you. Ask yourself:
Do I still enjoy fitness, or is it more about helping others succeed?
Could I combine my love for people skills and fitness, like managing a gym or running a fitness consultancy?
Even if coaching isn’t your thing anymore, that chapter might reveal what you’re passionate about—empowering people.
Step 3: Experiment Like a Mad Scientist 🧪
The best way to find what you love? Try everything. Volunteer, take online courses, or shadow professionals in fields you’re curious about. Love the idea of marketing? Sign up for a free course. Think you’d kill it in HR? Offer to help your company’s HR team. If something feels exciting, you’re onto something. If it feels like eating kale chips, cross it off.
Step 4: Tool Time 🔧
Let’s bust out some career-discovery tools:
StrengthsFinder: Uncover what you’re naturally good at.
Myers-Briggs: Because who doesn’t love a personality test?
Career Aptitude Tests: They might sound cheesy, but they can spark ideas.
Step 5: Listen to Boredom and Excitement ⏰💡
Pay attention to what makes time fly vs. what makes it crawl. Do you light up when connecting people or solving tricky problems? That’s your career compass talking!
Step 6: Dream Big, Then Reverse Engineer It 🚀
Ask yourself, “What’s the craziest job I’d love to do if money weren’t an issue?” Then figure out small steps to get there. Want to run a company? Start with leadership courses. Want to make fitness fun again? Open a side hustle training office workers on how not to turn into pretzels at their desks.
Final Words of Wisdom:
Finding your dream career isn’t about diving into a “passion pit” and magically emerging with answers—it’s more like speed-dating different skills and industries until you find your match. Remember, even the world’s happiest people have bad workdays. (Yes, even Beyoncé.)
So go ahead, experiment, laugh at your stumbles, and don’t stop until your career feels like you’re living, not just working. You’ve got this, Bawar! 🚀🎯
Jerry Bires
career coach
30
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Bawar,
First, there are many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice. Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently in my seventies. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities had changed, not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, he hired me in 2003 and I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years.
So how does this relate to you?
First, we're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you.
First, there are many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice. Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently in my seventies. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities had changed, not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, he hired me in 2003 and I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years.
So how does this relate to you?
First, we're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
623
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Bawar,
Good question! It's wonderful that you’re seeking a career that aligns with your talents and passions—it’s a courageous step toward a more fulfilling life. Here’s some guidance to help you discover your talents and find a career path you’ll truly love:
1. Reflect on Your Skills and Experiences
Your colleagues’ feedback about your communication and connection skills is a valuable clue. Think about the tasks or projects you’ve enjoyed in the past—whether at work, during your bodybuilding journey, or even in personal life. Ask yourself:
- What activities make me lose track of time?
- When have I felt proud of my work?
- What do people often come to me for help with?
2. Revisit Past Passions
Your interest in bodybuilding coaching may not be as strong now, but it might point to underlying passions, like helping others achieve their goals or teaching. Dig deeper: Was it the fitness aspect you enjoyed, or the mentorship?
3. Experiment and Explore
It’s okay to try out different fields before committing. Consider shadowing professionals in industries you’re curious about or taking on small projects to test your interest. For example:
- Volunteer to lead training sessions at work if you enjoy teaching.
- Explore roles in sales, HR, or coaching that align with your communication strengths.
4. Use Self-Discovery Tools
Sometimes, structured tools can offer insights:
- Personality Tests: Try the MBTI, StrengthsFinder, or Holland Code to uncover your natural tendencies and career matches.
- Skill Assessments: Tools like SkillScan can help identify your strongest abilities.
5. Talk to People
Engage with professionals in fields you admire. Ask about their journeys, challenges, and what they love about their work. Networking can open doors and give you ideas you hadn’t considered.
6. Consider Personal Fulfillment
A fulfilling career isn’t just about what you’re good at—it’s about what excites and energizes you. Ask yourself:
- What problems in the world do I want to solve?
- How do I want my work to impact others?
7. Stay Open to Growth
Your passions may evolve, and that’s okay. The key is to stay curious and embrace opportunities that align with your values and strengths.
Finally, remember that finding the "perfect" career is a journey, not a destination. Each step you take brings you closer to clarity. Believe in your ability to thrive, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or career coaches along the way.
You’ve got this!
Best Wishes!
Good question! It's wonderful that you’re seeking a career that aligns with your talents and passions—it’s a courageous step toward a more fulfilling life. Here’s some guidance to help you discover your talents and find a career path you’ll truly love:
1. Reflect on Your Skills and Experiences
Your colleagues’ feedback about your communication and connection skills is a valuable clue. Think about the tasks or projects you’ve enjoyed in the past—whether at work, during your bodybuilding journey, or even in personal life. Ask yourself:
- What activities make me lose track of time?
- When have I felt proud of my work?
- What do people often come to me for help with?
2. Revisit Past Passions
Your interest in bodybuilding coaching may not be as strong now, but it might point to underlying passions, like helping others achieve their goals or teaching. Dig deeper: Was it the fitness aspect you enjoyed, or the mentorship?
3. Experiment and Explore
It’s okay to try out different fields before committing. Consider shadowing professionals in industries you’re curious about or taking on small projects to test your interest. For example:
- Volunteer to lead training sessions at work if you enjoy teaching.
- Explore roles in sales, HR, or coaching that align with your communication strengths.
4. Use Self-Discovery Tools
Sometimes, structured tools can offer insights:
- Personality Tests: Try the MBTI, StrengthsFinder, or Holland Code to uncover your natural tendencies and career matches.
- Skill Assessments: Tools like SkillScan can help identify your strongest abilities.
5. Talk to People
Engage with professionals in fields you admire. Ask about their journeys, challenges, and what they love about their work. Networking can open doors and give you ideas you hadn’t considered.
6. Consider Personal Fulfillment
A fulfilling career isn’t just about what you’re good at—it’s about what excites and energizes you. Ask yourself:
- What problems in the world do I want to solve?
- How do I want my work to impact others?
7. Stay Open to Growth
Your passions may evolve, and that’s okay. The key is to stay curious and embrace opportunities that align with your values and strengths.
Finally, remember that finding the "perfect" career is a journey, not a destination. Each step you take brings you closer to clarity. Believe in your ability to thrive, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from mentors or career coaches along the way.
You’ve got this!
Best Wishes!
Daniel Penner
Service plumber
1
Answer
Thornton, Colorado
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
What a great question! I was in the same place you are years ago. I have been blue collar my whole career, and I spent years finding my path but I knew working with my hands was the way for me. What I finally realized is that when I was in the maintenance field, I decided that plumbing was going to be my path because I was good at it. So just like everyone else I started at the bottom and worked my way up. To answer your question, it sounds like your good at what your doing right now. So maybe consult a career counselor and explore another path in what you’re doing. And if that doesn’t suit you, step back and explore what your true interests are and the answer will show itself. That’s how it happened for me. I hope this helps and if not that’s ok! I hope you find what your looking for
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
800
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Bawar, please understand that to discover your true talents and find a career path you truly love, it's essential to engage in deep self-reflection and actively explore different fields that align with your passions, abilities, and personality traits. Begin by evaluating the core aspects of your strengths, such as your communication skills, leadership abilities, and social orientation. Since you thrive in community-driven environments, consider roles that allow you to connect with people, whether in leadership, mentorship, or customer-focused positions. Reflect on your past experiences—such as your initial interest in becoming a bodybuilding coach—while acknowledging that interests evolve over time, so don’t be discouraged if your passion for fitness has changed. Leverage your background in database technology by considering roles that merge your technical knowledge with your desire to work closely with others, like project management or client-facing technical roles. Seek feedback from mentors, colleagues, or career coaches who can help you identify and articulate your unique talents. Finally, create opportunities for personal and professional growth through networking, volunteering, or side projects that will allow you to experiment in different environments. Over time, you’ll begin to see where your natural skills and interests align, leading you to a fulfilling career path that feels both purposeful and energizing.
Quantise Rodgers
Marketing
23
Answers
Fairfield, Connecticut
Updated
Quantise’s Answer
I commend you for having a strong background. You have identified yourself as a strong community-oriented leader with a backing in technology. I would say you have already identified your talents and skills without you realizing it. It just seems that you're struggling with the social aspect of life. I would mark you as an introvert. That is ok, everyone has different personality type. I would say take an online career assessment test that will help you identify your skills. Perhaps transitioning into a role in humanitarian and community base organizations. Boys and Girls Club, Red Cross, and American Heart association are a few examples of organizations you may be a perfect fit at. You can also look at some tech companies with a strong foundation for community services. There are a lot of fun tech roles you can explore. Data engineer, scientist, programmer, web developer, just to name a few.
Take a look at some Youtube videos of people who are involve in tech careers to get a day in life of. Also, can look at some companies you would love to work for. Look at their mission statement and see if your core values mirrors. Then apply to these companies.
The key, is to find out what you're passionate about. To help your social anxiety, try taking little steps to socialize. Do it according to your comfort level. Try hanging out with friends a little more. Go out and about and explore fun places. This will help you to be less anxious. This is how you can get over your fears. You seem like a very like likeable person so, socializing shouldn't be a problem. Just giving tips so you will be more comfortable in your career. As socializing and communicating with your co-workers is the norm, I don't want this to be an issue for you. Take a look at this article for more guidance on what you can pursue as a career https://musings-of-life.com/2024/11/25/why-planning-for-college-before-high-school-is-the-best-decision/
Best of luck in your endeavors!
Take a look at some Youtube videos of people who are involve in tech careers to get a day in life of. Also, can look at some companies you would love to work for. Look at their mission statement and see if your core values mirrors. Then apply to these companies.
The key, is to find out what you're passionate about. To help your social anxiety, try taking little steps to socialize. Do it according to your comfort level. Try hanging out with friends a little more. Go out and about and explore fun places. This will help you to be less anxious. This is how you can get over your fears. You seem like a very like likeable person so, socializing shouldn't be a problem. Just giving tips so you will be more comfortable in your career. As socializing and communicating with your co-workers is the norm, I don't want this to be an issue for you. Take a look at this article for more guidance on what you can pursue as a career https://musings-of-life.com/2024/11/25/why-planning-for-college-before-high-school-is-the-best-decision/
Best of luck in your endeavors!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6653
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Bawar!
This is a great question and a common challenge many people face! Here's a breakdown of how to approach discovering your talents and finding a fulfilling career path, tailored to your situation:
1. Deep Dive into Self-Reflection:
Personality Assessments:
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI):
Helps understand your personality preferences (introversion/extroversion, sensing/intuition, thinking/feeling, judging/perceiving).
StrengthsFinder 2.0:
Identifies your top 5 talents and how to utilize them effectively.
Holland Code:
Matches your personality to suitable career fields.
Values Clarification:
What's truly important to you? (e.g., helping others, creativity, financial security, work-life balance, impact)
Interest Inventory:
What subjects/topics truly fascinate you? (e.g., history, art, science, social issues)
Skills Assessment:
What are you naturally good at? (e.g., writing, public speaking, problem-solving, organization, technical skills)
Past Experiences:
What roles did you enjoy most? (e.g., volunteer work, group projects, hobbies)
What were your biggest successes and failures?** What did you learn from them?
2. Explore Career Options:
Informational Interviews:
Talk to people in fields that interest you.** Ask about their daily work, challenges, and rewards.
Job Shadowing:
Observe professionals in action.** See if their day-to-day aligns with your expectations.
Volunteer Work:
Gain hands-on experience in different areas of interest.
Take Career Assessments:
Online tools and resources can help you match your interests and skills to potential careers.
3. Consider Your Unique Situation:
Your Background: Your degree in database technology provides a valuable foundation, even if you're pursuing a different path.
Your Strengths: You possess strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Leverage these!
Your Values: You value community, impact, and building something meaningful.
Your Concerns: Address your social anxiety through techniques like mindfulness, social skills training, and gradual exposure.
4. Develop a Career Action Plan:
Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable steps (e.g., attending a networking event, taking a relevant course).
Create a Timeline: Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks.
Build a Support Network: Connect with mentors, career counselors, or like-minded individuals.
Continuously Learn and Adapt: The job market is constantly evolving. Be open to new opportunities and willing to adjust your path as needed.
Potential Career Paths Considering Your Strengths:
Leadership Roles:
Project Manager: Leading and coordinating teams, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
Human Resources Manager: Recruiting, hiring, training, and developing employees.
Non-profit Management: Leading organizations that address social or environmental issues.
Sales and Marketing:
Sales Representative: Building relationships with clients, closing deals, and exceeding sales targets.
Marketing Manager: Developing and executing marketing campaigns to promote products or services.
Education and Training:
Instructor/Trainer: Sharing your knowledge and expertise with others.
Career Counselor: Guiding individuals in their career exploration and development.
Remember:
This is a journey, not a race. Be patient with yourself and allow time for exploration and self-discovery.
Don't be afraid to try new things. Experiment with different roles and activities to gain valuable experience.
Focus on your strengths and passions. Building a career around what you love will make work more fulfilling.
I hope this comprehensive approach helps you on your path to discovering your true talents and finding a career you love!
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
This is a great question and a common challenge many people face! Here's a breakdown of how to approach discovering your talents and finding a fulfilling career path, tailored to your situation:
1. Deep Dive into Self-Reflection:
Personality Assessments:
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI):
Helps understand your personality preferences (introversion/extroversion, sensing/intuition, thinking/feeling, judging/perceiving).
StrengthsFinder 2.0:
Identifies your top 5 talents and how to utilize them effectively.
Holland Code:
Matches your personality to suitable career fields.
Values Clarification:
What's truly important to you? (e.g., helping others, creativity, financial security, work-life balance, impact)
Interest Inventory:
What subjects/topics truly fascinate you? (e.g., history, art, science, social issues)
Skills Assessment:
What are you naturally good at? (e.g., writing, public speaking, problem-solving, organization, technical skills)
Past Experiences:
What roles did you enjoy most? (e.g., volunteer work, group projects, hobbies)
What were your biggest successes and failures?** What did you learn from them?
2. Explore Career Options:
Informational Interviews:
Talk to people in fields that interest you.** Ask about their daily work, challenges, and rewards.
Job Shadowing:
Observe professionals in action.** See if their day-to-day aligns with your expectations.
Volunteer Work:
Gain hands-on experience in different areas of interest.
Take Career Assessments:
Online tools and resources can help you match your interests and skills to potential careers.
3. Consider Your Unique Situation:
Your Background: Your degree in database technology provides a valuable foundation, even if you're pursuing a different path.
Your Strengths: You possess strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Leverage these!
Your Values: You value community, impact, and building something meaningful.
Your Concerns: Address your social anxiety through techniques like mindfulness, social skills training, and gradual exposure.
4. Develop a Career Action Plan:
Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable steps (e.g., attending a networking event, taking a relevant course).
Create a Timeline: Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks.
Build a Support Network: Connect with mentors, career counselors, or like-minded individuals.
Continuously Learn and Adapt: The job market is constantly evolving. Be open to new opportunities and willing to adjust your path as needed.
Potential Career Paths Considering Your Strengths:
Leadership Roles:
Project Manager: Leading and coordinating teams, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
Human Resources Manager: Recruiting, hiring, training, and developing employees.
Non-profit Management: Leading organizations that address social or environmental issues.
Sales and Marketing:
Sales Representative: Building relationships with clients, closing deals, and exceeding sales targets.
Marketing Manager: Developing and executing marketing campaigns to promote products or services.
Education and Training:
Instructor/Trainer: Sharing your knowledge and expertise with others.
Career Counselor: Guiding individuals in their career exploration and development.
Remember:
This is a journey, not a race. Be patient with yourself and allow time for exploration and self-discovery.
Don't be afraid to try new things. Experiment with different roles and activities to gain valuable experience.
Focus on your strengths and passions. Building a career around what you love will make work more fulfilling.
I hope this comprehensive approach helps you on your path to discovering your true talents and finding a career you love!
God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
Beverly Schott
Academic coaching, advising and teaching
32
Answers
Canton, Connecticut
Updated
Beverly’s Answer
Hi Bawar,
Thank you for briefing me on your current position, your passions, which you may still have, and your desire to find a career you love.
From your background, I can see that you are a good communicator with precise writing skills. Please see my suggestions below:
Best wishes in discovering your career,
Beverly
Check the web for some career tools such as the Myers-Briggs Personality Test (free ), Focus2 Career Dimensions (through a college or university career office), and others you can do on your own.nd the Holland
Work on LinkedIn and their Premium trial to sake some online quick certifications to discover topics that will help you to gauge your career
Speak to a community college or university career counselor to learn about different programs and workshops for potential students
Talk with people in professions that pique your interest--ask them questions about their career journey
Be true to yourself and know that every experience you have will bring you useful information
Thank you for briefing me on your current position, your passions, which you may still have, and your desire to find a career you love.
From your background, I can see that you are a good communicator with precise writing skills. Please see my suggestions below:
Best wishes in discovering your career,
Beverly
Beverly recommends the following next steps: