10 answers
Hailey
Student
Leitchfield, Kentucky
1
Question
Asked
480 views
How do you truly know what you want to do in life ?
i know people say if you do what you enjoy in life it wont be work but what if you don't know what that is. or the fear of going through all that schooling just to get bored with that specialty or decided that's not for you anymore.
Login to comment
10 answers
Belinda Ferguson
Doctorate of Family Nurse Practitioner; DNP, FNP-BC
2
Answers
Albemarle, North Carolina
Updated
Belinda’s Answer
This is a great question! Here are some suggestions to help you decide on your career path:
1. Start by determining if you're after a job or a profession. A job is usually a stepping stone, whereas a profession demands specialized training and transforms you into a specialist or expert.
2. Ponder on the level of income you aspire to earn. Are you comfortable with earning below $100,000 annually, or do you aim for a higher bracket like $100,000, $200,000, or even more?
3. Reflect on your long-term goals. Do you see yourself launching your own business or freelancing, or do you prefer the stability of being a company employee?
4. Engage in a "brain dump" to steer clear of aimless wandering. Compile a list of all the careers and jobs that excite you and why. Additionally, note down the careers and jobs you would like to explore and the reasons behind it. Lastly, jot down the careers and jobs you'd rather avoid and why. Delve into each profession or job to gain more insights. This exercise will guide you in choosing the right career path. Use your responses to questions 1-3 as a compass for your brainstorming.
5. If you haven't yet, seize the opportunity to participate in a student job shadowing program. This offers a unique chance to observe a profession or job for a day or a specific duration, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of what the job or profession entails. This experience will also aid in answering questions 1-4.
In the end, opt for a job or profession that offers growth opportunities, allows you to be authentic, challenges you to strive for excellence, doesn't drain you mentally, and keeps you engaged. Understand who you are, your values, your aspirations, and what brings you joy. Select a job or career path that aligns with your interests and not merely what others expect of you. Bear in mind any job or career can become boring, but you should feel satisfied and take pride in your choice. Best of luck!
1. Start by determining if you're after a job or a profession. A job is usually a stepping stone, whereas a profession demands specialized training and transforms you into a specialist or expert.
2. Ponder on the level of income you aspire to earn. Are you comfortable with earning below $100,000 annually, or do you aim for a higher bracket like $100,000, $200,000, or even more?
3. Reflect on your long-term goals. Do you see yourself launching your own business or freelancing, or do you prefer the stability of being a company employee?
4. Engage in a "brain dump" to steer clear of aimless wandering. Compile a list of all the careers and jobs that excite you and why. Additionally, note down the careers and jobs you would like to explore and the reasons behind it. Lastly, jot down the careers and jobs you'd rather avoid and why. Delve into each profession or job to gain more insights. This exercise will guide you in choosing the right career path. Use your responses to questions 1-3 as a compass for your brainstorming.
5. If you haven't yet, seize the opportunity to participate in a student job shadowing program. This offers a unique chance to observe a profession or job for a day or a specific duration, ask questions, and gain a clearer understanding of what the job or profession entails. This experience will also aid in answering questions 1-4.
In the end, opt for a job or profession that offers growth opportunities, allows you to be authentic, challenges you to strive for excellence, doesn't drain you mentally, and keeps you engaged. Understand who you are, your values, your aspirations, and what brings you joy. Select a job or career path that aligns with your interests and not merely what others expect of you. Bear in mind any job or career can become boring, but you should feel satisfied and take pride in your choice. Best of luck!
Jeffrey Pham
13
Answers
Updated
Jeffrey’s Answer
That’s a tough question! But a very good one. It’s true that one must think about what they are interested in to begin their journey. Along the way there will be forks in the road, these are other opportunities that might interest you! So it’s best to start where you feel passionate about something and keep an open mind while pursuing your goal. It’s ok to venture off to other possibilities. We have to start somewhere for the doors to open!
Keyston Rice
Supervisor
178
Answers
Lawrence, IN
Updated
Keyston’s Answer
You're right, finding your true calling can be a challenge. Back when I was in your shoes, I didn't have college to guide me, but I found my way by exploring different interests. Sometimes, passion develops over time, and it's okay to try new things. As for schooling, it's an investment, but life experiences also shape your path. Don't be afraid to adapt and grow – your journey is unique.
Harvey S
Renewals/Account Manager
11
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Harvey’s Answer
Almost everyone will tell you to follow what you are interested in, which is natural. But people almost never mention that you should also ask yourself what kind of lifestyle you want to live.
Remember that while your job is a large part of your life, beyond your 9-5 is a majority of your time, so what do you want to do with it? What kind of house do you want to live in? What do you need if you want to travel often or if your hobbies are expensive? Would you value working from home or being in the office, or being outside?
You may have a burning desire to do a particular job, but perhaps if you are not as set on a particular line of work, think about what type of job will facilitate the lifestyle that you want, and you will be surprised at what you find!
Remember that while your job is a large part of your life, beyond your 9-5 is a majority of your time, so what do you want to do with it? What kind of house do you want to live in? What do you need if you want to travel often or if your hobbies are expensive? Would you value working from home or being in the office, or being outside?
You may have a burning desire to do a particular job, but perhaps if you are not as set on a particular line of work, think about what type of job will facilitate the lifestyle that you want, and you will be surprised at what you find!
Edward Takahashi
Consulting Forensic Architect
6
Answers
Monterey Park, California
Updated
Edward’s Answer
We took Math-Science classes. One engineer, another attorney; I became an architect after taking architectural drafting classes, Try different activities; follow your heart for your life. Change if you become bored. Keep improving life, reaching personal goals. As a Boy Scout, had access to sons' contractors.
ur Troop. They critiqued my work. advised me to improve designs. Before graduating from High School, I worked at a dime store, a market and newspaper firm. Got drafting job; did some design; it was exciting. Worked for a structural engineer; insights into structures. Watched buildings come up from ground up. Partners gave design insights and construction problems/solutions. Listen and learn. Ask questions. Attend seminars, NEVER STOP LEARNING!
ur Troop. They critiqued my work. advised me to improve designs. Before graduating from High School, I worked at a dime store, a market and newspaper firm. Got drafting job; did some design; it was exciting. Worked for a structural engineer; insights into structures. Watched buildings come up from ground up. Partners gave design insights and construction problems/solutions. Listen and learn. Ask questions. Attend seminars, NEVER STOP LEARNING!
Aminah Abdulwali
Retail Manager
1
Answer
Newark, New Jersey
Updated
Aminah’s Answer
I think people forget we as humans have so many interest and hobbies. Don’t be afraid to try more than one thing/career. It’s never a bad thing to have more than one skill under your belt. Go to school, get your degree and then have fun finding what brings you happiness. You got this!
Enise Agel
144
Answers
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello Hailey,
It depends how you are passionate enough in your life.
I can give some advice on this issue. You may have to progress on which job career or academic career you want to enjoy in your life.
If you would like to enjoy your academic career, you can find any opportunities related to your talent and passion. For instance, you can join any club (photography, art, etc.), or you can help the librarian (whether it is a volunteer opportunity or not), or you can enroll any competitions that your school organizes the event. You can even join the summer school in the future. Most summer schools have well-organised activities and events for everyone.
If you would like to enjoy your job career, you may start with any volunteering role that suits you. For instance, charity shop and/or any volunteering role matches with your hobbies. If you already did volunteering, you may start with internship roles that you may happy with it.
I hope it helps.
It depends how you are passionate enough in your life.
I can give some advice on this issue. You may have to progress on which job career or academic career you want to enjoy in your life.
If you would like to enjoy your academic career, you can find any opportunities related to your talent and passion. For instance, you can join any club (photography, art, etc.), or you can help the librarian (whether it is a volunteer opportunity or not), or you can enroll any competitions that your school organizes the event. You can even join the summer school in the future. Most summer schools have well-organised activities and events for everyone.
If you would like to enjoy your job career, you may start with any volunteering role that suits you. For instance, charity shop and/or any volunteering role matches with your hobbies. If you already did volunteering, you may start with internship roles that you may happy with it.
I hope it helps.
Lucía Theurel
UI UX Designer
8
Answers
Greensboro, North Carolina
Updated
Lucía’s Answer
I would first make a list of 10 things I dont like and grade them from top to as the "most unpleasant ones" to bottom as the "least unpleasant" ones.
Then I would make a list of 10 things I like and another of 10 things I am good at
Then apply the "remix' technique:
research jobs that combine at least two things from those two lists. Once you find jobs that combined those things, see the required skills of those jobs and go ahead and endeavor yourself on getting trained on those things.
Read the description of the jobs carefully. Do they have responsibilities that sound like one of the items you put on the list of things you dislike doing? if so, what is the ranking of this thing you dislike? if its tolerable, then go ahead and go for the required skills. if not, then dont bother cuz you are gonna hate that job and even more so, wasting time getting trained on doing a job you dont really like.
IMPORTANT NOTE: if there are no jobs that have the combination of things you are good at and things you like...it may mean you either:
a) have to get real and honest with yourself and concede on doing slightly more things you may dislike, at least until you get to see jobs you like...or do the things you like on the side while doing things you dislike as a "bread-winner" job. refer to your tolerance ranking of the list of things you dislike and choose accordingly.
b) you may be a pioneer and have to create your own industry...this may be harder as you will have to do more research and perhaps get soaked on many topics, in order to create that new gig that exists only in your mind. This is the innovator path. Its a hard one, but extremely rewarding. Good luck!
Make a list of 10 things you dislike and rate them from worst to tolerable.
Make a list of 10 things you like
Make a list of 10 things you are good at
Combine the list of the things you like with the things you are good at. Research jobs that contain said combinations and figure out what are the required skils.
if the jobs you researched have the things you dislike, decide if you have to avoid them or tolerate them based on your ranked list of things you dislike.
Then I would make a list of 10 things I like and another of 10 things I am good at
Then apply the "remix' technique:
research jobs that combine at least two things from those two lists. Once you find jobs that combined those things, see the required skills of those jobs and go ahead and endeavor yourself on getting trained on those things.
Read the description of the jobs carefully. Do they have responsibilities that sound like one of the items you put on the list of things you dislike doing? if so, what is the ranking of this thing you dislike? if its tolerable, then go ahead and go for the required skills. if not, then dont bother cuz you are gonna hate that job and even more so, wasting time getting trained on doing a job you dont really like.
IMPORTANT NOTE: if there are no jobs that have the combination of things you are good at and things you like...it may mean you either:
a) have to get real and honest with yourself and concede on doing slightly more things you may dislike, at least until you get to see jobs you like...or do the things you like on the side while doing things you dislike as a "bread-winner" job. refer to your tolerance ranking of the list of things you dislike and choose accordingly.
b) you may be a pioneer and have to create your own industry...this may be harder as you will have to do more research and perhaps get soaked on many topics, in order to create that new gig that exists only in your mind. This is the innovator path. Its a hard one, but extremely rewarding. Good luck!
Lucía recommends the following next steps:
Ofelia Sabala
1
Answer
Updated
Ofelia’s Answer
Great day to you! So glad you are here.
The first place to start is with a personal assessment. This will help you determine your interests, skills, values and desires. Write it down so you can review and think about how you can apply the these thoughts and ideas toward a career. To get you started, here are some questions to ask yourself.
What are my strongest subjects in school?
What are my personal strengths and weaknesses?
What are my current skills/achievements?
What hobbies/clubs do I like to participate in?
What kinds of activities do I enjoy?
What kind of lifestyle/work-life balance do I want?
What is the job market like regarding my career consideration?
How much am I willing to dedicate to my education or training?
There are so many questions you can ask yourself and once you get started you might be surprised by how much you come up with and what you learn about yourself.
Additionally, there are free tools online like personal assessment, aptitude and personality tests that may help move you in a direction you may not have thought of.
Once you have decided on a career interest(s), there may be more than one, start doing your research. This site is a good place to start and has plenty of resources. You can review career guides or ask more specific questions and join groups where real world industry professionals and entrepreneurs from all walks of life are ready to help you succeed. Be sure to check it out.
Outside of this site, there are other things you can do.
Talk to your guidance counselor
Talk to your family
Get involved in a mentorship program
Explore FREE online education classes
Talk to people at your local colleges/trade schools
Volunteer at a place of interest
Look into internships
Do your research and put yourself out there.
Know that whatever direction you choose, you will need to continue to learn and grow.
As for fear, it is an illusion that you can erase with information, ambition and dedication to yourself.
We are here to help you succeed. Best to you!
The first place to start is with a personal assessment. This will help you determine your interests, skills, values and desires. Write it down so you can review and think about how you can apply the these thoughts and ideas toward a career. To get you started, here are some questions to ask yourself.
What are my strongest subjects in school?
What are my personal strengths and weaknesses?
What are my current skills/achievements?
What hobbies/clubs do I like to participate in?
What kinds of activities do I enjoy?
What kind of lifestyle/work-life balance do I want?
What is the job market like regarding my career consideration?
How much am I willing to dedicate to my education or training?
There are so many questions you can ask yourself and once you get started you might be surprised by how much you come up with and what you learn about yourself.
Additionally, there are free tools online like personal assessment, aptitude and personality tests that may help move you in a direction you may not have thought of.
Once you have decided on a career interest(s), there may be more than one, start doing your research. This site is a good place to start and has plenty of resources. You can review career guides or ask more specific questions and join groups where real world industry professionals and entrepreneurs from all walks of life are ready to help you succeed. Be sure to check it out.
Outside of this site, there are other things you can do.
Talk to your guidance counselor
Talk to your family
Get involved in a mentorship program
Explore FREE online education classes
Talk to people at your local colleges/trade schools
Volunteer at a place of interest
Look into internships
Do your research and put yourself out there.
Know that whatever direction you choose, you will need to continue to learn and grow.
As for fear, it is an illusion that you can erase with information, ambition and dedication to yourself.
We are here to help you succeed. Best to you!
Tyequighae Fulton
Training Specialist
1
Answer
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Tyequighae’s Answer
That's a great question. I think it's natural to want to be absolutely sure about our choices, but the beauty of life is how it always changes. What you want out of a career now might change in 5 years, and that's okay. It's just important to always keep going because you never know where different opportunities might take you.