3 answers
Nicole’s Answer
Similar to the previous answers provided, I share one word that can be a major part of discovering what matters to you....motivation. Specifically, it will be important for you to understand, accept and/or adjust your level of motivation for the career path you build for yourself. I share too that your career path can last a lot longer if your motivation is about more than money.
Your level of motivation can drive you to places that you didn't think you could go in order to be successful. Motivation is palatable meaning others can see it, hear it, feel it as you interact with them on projects or work independently to find solutions to a problem. Note too that lack of motivation is also palatable. If others sense that your heart and mind are not a part of what you are doing, if you don't have a sense of caring about what you are doing, that too can be heard and felt by others...and that can hurt your chances for success.
You will find that persons who work in different careers and have had those careers for many years (think 10+ years), have had the chance to do many things that keeps them motivated and innovative. They have a reputation of solving problems and working well with others. It's my suspicion that these awesome people don't just appear out of nowhere :) but instead they have taken the time to build their careers in ways that makes them successful both inside and outside of work. Talk to them, read about them, learn from them and use their guidance as good input for how you want to build your future.
Best of luck to you!
Megan’s Answer
Even if you are passionate about your industry and good at what you do, you might be miserable if a job is your entire life, or on the other end, if it is not a challenge enough for you. It's all about your preferences and what is going to be the best fit.
Brandi’s Answer
This is a good question. Here's my opinion:
1) It needs to be something you enjoy doing. One of the worst feelings in the world is have to spent such a large chunk of your life doing something you don't enjoy doing. I've had jobs I have hated: I will never do it again if I can help it.
2) It needs to be something you can do with some skill. You may, for instance, enjoy singing. If you are tone deaf, singing is not something you can do with some skill. Be honest with yourself about how well you can do the prospective career. Research what skills you need for it. If you know that you can conquer those skills with some training or experience, go for it.