6 answers
Milly
Student
Hermosa Beach, California
1
Question
Asked
1183 views
How do I know what career path to go down?
I don’t know what I want to do in life and sometimes it can get confusing. I don’t know what hobs or occupations would suit me the best. I have no ideas on what I want to do later in life
Login to comment
6 answers
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I think people think they have to have it all figured out and it’s ok if you don’t. Take electives in high school to explore different things. Join clubs at school and attend career fairs that are offered.
I did two years at a community college and got an AA in general studies. That let me decide on Psychology and go on to a 4 year and finish my degree.
It may seem daunting, but I promise you have time and space to explore an figure it out. I know 40 year olds who still don’t know what they want to be.
I did two years at a community college and got an AA in general studies. That let me decide on Psychology and go on to a 4 year and finish my degree.
It may seem daunting, but I promise you have time and space to explore an figure it out. I know 40 year olds who still don’t know what they want to be.
Katia Ratkovich
Recruitment
10
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Katia’s Answer
Hey there, Milly!
Such a great question! And I can see there are already some great answers. Reflecting on my own path, it's clear that it's been far from linear. My best recommendation would be to try everything and anything you are interested in. When you do something you're truly passionate about, it becomes your driving force. That intrinsic motivation is a powerful tool for success. Just remember that if you pursue something you are passionate about- the success will come. If you do not know what your passion is yet, try everything and talk to those in your network to learn about their experiences in different roles. Perhaps look into after school jobs you are interested in or volunteer opportunities in your community. I would also recommend reading tons of books on any particular fields you are interested in and perhaps joining any local clubs that may be aligned to your passions.
Some of our best resources when looking for a career are our own trusted mentors, friends and colleagues. Listening to people who know you best, and taking their feedback when looking at a career paths is always valuable to ensure we are not selling ourselves short for potential opportunities.
Also, remember its a journey and don't be hard on yourself! There will be unexpected challenges but pushing through it and being resilent and resourceful are the most important things you can do. There have been instances where I was rejected from roles but ended up getting a much better role that was better than I dreamed of. If it happens to you one day, just remember that Rejection is just Redirection!
This journey has taught me an invaluable lesson: success is not always about taking the most direct or traditional route. It's about embracing opportunities, even if they don't seem to align with your initial plan. Sometimes, those unexpected detours lead to the most remarkable destinations.
Remember- each experience, whether it feels like a step forward or backward, contributes to your growth. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; they often lead to the most significant breakthroughs. Good luck in your journey!
Such a great question! And I can see there are already some great answers. Reflecting on my own path, it's clear that it's been far from linear. My best recommendation would be to try everything and anything you are interested in. When you do something you're truly passionate about, it becomes your driving force. That intrinsic motivation is a powerful tool for success. Just remember that if you pursue something you are passionate about- the success will come. If you do not know what your passion is yet, try everything and talk to those in your network to learn about their experiences in different roles. Perhaps look into after school jobs you are interested in or volunteer opportunities in your community. I would also recommend reading tons of books on any particular fields you are interested in and perhaps joining any local clubs that may be aligned to your passions.
Some of our best resources when looking for a career are our own trusted mentors, friends and colleagues. Listening to people who know you best, and taking their feedback when looking at a career paths is always valuable to ensure we are not selling ourselves short for potential opportunities.
Also, remember its a journey and don't be hard on yourself! There will be unexpected challenges but pushing through it and being resilent and resourceful are the most important things you can do. There have been instances where I was rejected from roles but ended up getting a much better role that was better than I dreamed of. If it happens to you one day, just remember that Rejection is just Redirection!
This journey has taught me an invaluable lesson: success is not always about taking the most direct or traditional route. It's about embracing opportunities, even if they don't seem to align with your initial plan. Sometimes, those unexpected detours lead to the most remarkable destinations.
Remember- each experience, whether it feels like a step forward or backward, contributes to your growth. Don't be discouraged by setbacks; they often lead to the most significant breakthroughs. Good luck in your journey!
Sravan Nallana
Product Management
2
Answers
Hyderabad, Telangana, India
Updated
Sravan’s Answer
When I first started my job, I was uncertain about what it would entail. I believe many of us can relate to this feeling. However, as time passed, I grew to appreciate my job and began to set goals related to it. There's absolutely nothing wrong with that.
Your career choice ultimately depends on what you hope to achieve from your job. Is your priority a high salary, or are you content with any income as long as it aligns with your aspirations?
If your ambitions don't quite match your current job, ask yourself if you're willing to stick with it despite a lower salary. Remember, it's your journey and your choice. You have the power to shape your career path in a way that suits you best. Stay positive and keep striving for your goals!
Your career choice ultimately depends on what you hope to achieve from your job. Is your priority a high salary, or are you content with any income as long as it aligns with your aspirations?
If your ambitions don't quite match your current job, ask yourself if you're willing to stick with it despite a lower salary. Remember, it's your journey and your choice. You have the power to shape your career path in a way that suits you best. Stay positive and keep striving for your goals!
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Milly, thanks for getting in touch with us. You've asked a great question. It's completely okay if you're unsure about your future career path. You're not alone; many students and even adults grapple with this very issue. As a life coach, I believe it's crucial for students to know their capabilities and limitations. Concentrate on your strengths and you're bound to excel. Understand where your talents lie and devote your energy to those areas. Life is too short to dwell on your weaknesses. But remember, there's always room for improvement, depending on your belief in your ability to learn and grow. This belief can significantly enhance your self-concept or self-esteem. This is the essence of a growth mindset. If you believe you can, you will! If you believe you can't, then you won't. Your perceptions shape your reality. Your words can dictate your future, so choose them wisely, as they carry immense power!
Do some research in the library about career occupational handbook and explore your interests.
Visit your career counselor and ask some assistance to take your career assessment and discuss to your results for self awareness etc.
Interview people who are already in the field of interests just like you.
Attend college fair and visit schools and know different programs and admission requirements.
Dino recommends the following next steps:
Umama Arshad- GMBPsS
Career Counselor, GMBPsS(Graduate Member of the British Psychological Society)
4
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Umama Arshad-’s Answer
Hey Milly,
I hope your day is filled with positivity and joy.
Drawing from my own journey, I've often grappled with the same question since my high school days. Diving into various fields has been a game changer, helping me pinpoint the career path best suited for me. Looking back, I wish I had seized the opportunity to volunteer for diverse organizations during my summers from ages 16 to 20.
So here's a nugget of wisdom for you: immerse yourself in as many seminars, complimentary one-day workshops, online events, and internships as you can find, even if they seem unrelated at first glance. If, for example, the world of marketing intrigues you, delve into its various facets—partnerships, federal, and so on. The key is to gather as much hands-on experience as possible. It's through this exploration that you'll discover your true passion.
Also, consider subscribing to various organizations, NGOs, or universities on social platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. This will ensure you're always in the loop about any upcoming opportunities.
I hope your day is filled with positivity and joy.
Drawing from my own journey, I've often grappled with the same question since my high school days. Diving into various fields has been a game changer, helping me pinpoint the career path best suited for me. Looking back, I wish I had seized the opportunity to volunteer for diverse organizations during my summers from ages 16 to 20.
So here's a nugget of wisdom for you: immerse yourself in as many seminars, complimentary one-day workshops, online events, and internships as you can find, even if they seem unrelated at first glance. If, for example, the world of marketing intrigues you, delve into its various facets—partnerships, federal, and so on. The key is to gather as much hands-on experience as possible. It's through this exploration that you'll discover your true passion.
Also, consider subscribing to various organizations, NGOs, or universities on social platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. This will ensure you're always in the loop about any upcoming opportunities.
Keyston Rice
Supervisor
178
Answers
Lawrence, IN
Updated
Keyston’s Answer
I understand where you're coming from. Even without college, I found my way by exploring different opportunities and taking chances. Don't rush it. Think about your interests and strengths, and try out different things. Life has a way of revealing unexpected paths, just like how I ended up supervising a facility maintenance company owned by my wife, who knew? Stay patient and open, and you'll find your path too.