Skip to main content
8 answers
9
Updated 537 views

Is there a certain time a person should choose between two passions for a job?

I am in high school and know I still have a fair amount of time to make a decision about my career path for the future, but is there a specific time I should choose between my two interests? Should I completely focus on 1 of them at some point, or just wait and see what opportunities await in the future?

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

9

8 answers


0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Hi Ben,

Response:

At your current high school level, there's no rush to choose between your two passions. In fact, it's advantageous to keep exploring both as you mature and evolve. Many accomplished people have successfully merged multiple passions into their careers, resulting in creative and satisfying journeys. Remember, there's no strict timeline for deciding between your passions, and career trajectories are rarely a straight line.

As you advance academically, especially in college, you'll have more chances to delve into your interests. Think about double majoring or minoring in related fields if feasible. Also, reach out to mentors, career advisors, and professionals in the sectors you're curious about to gain insights into possible career routes.

Keeping an open mind and exploring various opportunities that cross your path is crucial. You might find ways to merge both passions or stumble upon new interests. Bear in mind that decisions made now aren't permanent; you have the freedom to shift and redefine yourself as you grow on a personal and professional level.

In the end, there's no set deadline for deciding between your passions. Enjoy the journey of self-exploration and skill-building, always keeping an eye out for opportunities that match your interests and long-term objectives.

Top 3 Credible Sources Used:

Medium - GaryVee: This source offered valuable advice on how to choose between two passions when considering a career path. The article stressed the importance of exploring multiple interests and weaving them into a gratifying career.

Quora Responses: Various individuals on Quora provided practical guidance on navigating career decisions when caught between different passions. These responses underscored the advantages of investigating a range of interests before making a final decision.

Personal Development Experts: Advice from personal development experts was used to offer well-rounded guidance on the career decision-making process for those facing similar dilemmas. These experts highlighted the importance of ongoing learning, self-reflection, and seeking mentorship in shaping one's career.

By combining information from these credible sources, a thorough response was created to effectively address your question.

Stay blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Justin’s Answer

Great question. As Elsie mentioned, it's possible you could connect your two passions into a career that is even more rewarding than one based on a single passion alone. I don't know your specific passions, but I can give some examples: people interested in both technology and medicine are in huge demand at medical firms who are trying to figure out how to modernize and get more efficient. People who are interested in psychology and sports can help elite athletes strengthen their mental game and reach the next level of performance. People who are interested in physics and architecture can help understand how to use materials and structural science to build stronger, lighter more innovative buildings.

The other thing to think about is how your passions fit into your other priorities, like lifestyle, desire for a family, where to live, how much to travel, volunteering, etc. Thinking about how those pieces fit together might help you choose how to prioritize your calling as well.

Finally, if you are choosing one passion, there are always ways to pursue the other outside of a professional setting. For instance, I work in tech, but I love fixing cars. So I tinker on my own cars, (saving money in the process) join car communities and learn by doing, to satisfy both interests.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Elaina’s Answer

Hi Ben! This is a great question and it's awesome you've already identified your passions. Since you're still early in your career, there is no need to make a firm hard decision today to commit to one passion. It would be beneficial to continue exploring these two passions. A lot of great innovations and ideas are based on interdisciplinary approaches. While you're growing as a young professional and developing other skills and knowledge, you may also find ways to integrate your passions together. It's also possible that as you grow in your skillset and knowledge base, you may discover new passions as well. There is no specific timeline. A lot of the times, career paths are not linear. Projects that align with your passions, and even for projects that don't align with your passions, are all opportunities to learn your strengths and weaknesses. College will also be a great time for you to explore further. It is not uncommon for students to double major (or minor) in different fields, and if time and budget allows, this could be a potential path to consider. And if not, there are also many online courses and resources for you to learn more about whether these passions align with your goals in the long-run.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Elsie’s Answer

In line with Rebecca and Claudia's insights, it's necessary to do a bit of homework. There might come a time when you'll need to make a choice, but when that time comes largely depends on where you are in your life and career journey.

I've witnessed many successful entrepreneurs skillfully weave multiple passions into their startups, maintaining them for an extended period.

Remember, having more than one passion doesn't mean they have to clash. You can always focus on one passion as your career and still manage to incorporate your other passion into it. For instance, if you're passionate about both music and technology, you could pursue a career in tech and perhaps, at some point, use it to create music. Contrary to popular belief, the music industry is heavily reliant on technology!

Wishing you all the best in your decision-making!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Ben,

ME:-

Forgive me if I send you 2 replies to your query. I try to investigate whether I have already answered the question in the same manner of speaking in a previous communication. AI does not hold all the answers it is just a time-saving tool. So I started including a section outlining my personal opinions! Until AI gets a correctness score of 100% I will not change my stance.

There are a number of people that have asked questions regarding two (or n number) of study options or career choices. Some are anxious about times to make a decision for a deadline. If an individual is drawn to two options equally it makes it hard to decide. Use your personal priorities to arrive at your final decision. On the other hand you can pursue both options 'A' and 'B'.

One fellow did not know whether to do pharmacy or medicine - or both! Another could not decide between psychology and nursing! Do both if you can handle the load. It may be expensive with student fees!

AI:-

Making a decision between two passions for a job can be a challenging task, especially when you are at a stage where you are still exploring your interests and career options. While there is no specific time frame that applies universally to everyone, there are some factors to consider when deciding between two passions for a job.

Exploration and Discovery Phase: During high school and even in the early years of college, it is essential to explore both of your passions thoroughly. Engage in various activities, internships, or courses related to each interest to gain a deeper understanding of what each field entails. This exploration phase will help you identify which passion aligns more with your skills, values, and long-term goals.

Assessing Long-Term Viability: Consider the long-term viability and growth prospects of each passion as a potential career choice. Research the job market demand, salary potential, advancement opportunities, and future trends in both fields. Understanding the practical aspects of each passion can help you make an informed decision based on not just your interests but also the feasibility of pursuing them as a career.

Seeking Guidance from Career Counselors or Mentors: Consulting with career counselors or mentors can provide valuable insights into how to navigate this decision-making process. They can offer guidance based on their experience and expertise in helping individuals choose suitable career paths. Their advice can help you weigh the pros and cons of each passion and make a more informed choice.

Personal Reflection and Self-Assessment: Take time for personal reflection and self-assessment to understand your strengths, weaknesses, values, and aspirations. Consider how each passion aligns with your personal goals and vision for the future. Reflecting on what truly motivates you and brings you fulfillment can guide you towards making a decision that resonates with your authentic self.

Embracing Flexibility and Adaptability: It’s important to remember that career paths are not always linear, and it is okay to pivot or switch directions if needed. Sometimes opportunities arise unexpectedly or new interests develop over time. Embrace flexibility in your career journey and remain open to exploring new possibilities even after choosing one passion over the other initially.

In conclusion, there is no set deadline for choosing between two passions for a job. It is a process that requires careful consideration, self-reflection, exploration, guidance, and adaptability. Take the time you need to evaluate your options thoroughly before committing to one path over the other.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

Harvard Business Review: Provides insights on career development strategies, decision-making processes related to career choices, and tips for navigating career transitions effectively.

The Balance Careers: Offers comprehensive resources on career planning, job search strategies, skill development advice, and guidance on making informed career decisions.

American Psychological Association (APA): as a reputable source for information on psychology-related topics including career counseling techniques, decision-making processes in education and work settings.

God Bless,
JC.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

PwC’s Answer

Look into mixing both passions together. For example, major and minor combos, try them both and then weigh the pros and cons.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I am glad to hear that you have identified 2 interest you have passion. This would be good to be your major and minor subjects in the college
Below are my suggestions :
1. Identify the related careers of you have interest
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, do you want to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more interest on these careers and identify what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue. The relevant subjects will be your major and minor in the college
5. Explore the entry criteria of these subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Claudia’s Answer

Yes, in life sometimes you have to choose between things you like. I think it's imporant that you know that the desicions that you make, are not forever, you can always reinvent yourself and that's ok. So, my recomendation for you it's that you do something like what Rebecca recomended and follow your heart. One of the decisions that you may face in the future it's related to money, you can do what you love or you can do what makes more money. Good luck with your choise :)
0