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How do you know for certain what job you would like to spend the rest of your life doing?

It feels very complex to decide

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Kat,

Trust me, you've got this! Your chosen career path will feel like a breeze because you're naturally good at it and you genuinely enjoy it. Your passion for helping others shines through in your work, making it feel less like a job and more like a calling. You handle your responsibilities with such grace, it's as if stress doesn't exist in your dictionary.

While there might be some genetic inclination towards the profession of your parents, remember, we are not mere replicas of them. The mixing of chromosomes during meiosis ensures our uniqueness.

Engaging with career advisors, influential figures, and seasoned professionals can provide invaluable insights. Some of them have spent half a century in their field. Their ability to stay committed to the same role for such a long time speaks volumes about their adaptability and dedication. Those who persist are often the ones who strive for excellence and mastery in their roles.

The diversity in the workplace can be truly rewarding when everyone shares their preferences and interests. After all, who wants a hostile boss? We all thrive better with positive reinforcement, which fuels our drive for continued success. A simple smile can go a long way too.

Make sure to connect with a variety of experienced individuals. You'll find some who are passionate about volunteering and assisting others. A quick Google search can help you find organizations in your chosen field right in your hometown. Consider joining local chapters of associations like Rotary or Lions.

Believe in yourself, Kat. Success is on your horizon.

Best,
Jim.
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Polly’s Answer

Hi Kat,

This is a very important question Kat, which I'm sure many other students can relate to, including myself!
Instead of focusing on a " job for the rest of your life", I would like you to focus on writing down what your favorite subjects are, the ones you enjoy studying , the ones that come easily to you.
Once you have prioritised your list, you can then look at your career path, that include these chosen subjects.
They always say, " If you enjoy what you do for a living you do not have to work a day in your life"
If you have decided to further your studies at University/College. I would speak to a Career Guidance Counselor so he/she can advise you on what course to take, with the subjects you enjoy. I would suggest you take a general field of studies, then once you have a clearer understanding over time of which direction you want to continue you can specialise in that field.

I really do hope you find your niche Kat, good luck with your research!
Polly.
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Kat !

Most times, when people are certain of what they'd like to do for a living, it may not be certain that it would be the career for them - they may change their mind after they are so sure. So do not worry.

Influence and inspiration are the keys that will open up not only the idea, but the feeling about what you should do as a career. This inspiration comes at varying times for people. For me, it was age 6 and age 13 when I was inspired for two different careers because of influence and the inspiration and strong feeling I developed for them. Do not worry about how or when, rather, be observant to the outside world and within yourself. It is indeed complex for some people, but you are not alone. You are still exploring and once you see the answer for yourself, you will be certain. Having the strong desire comes first than comes the work towards it.

If you are in high school, join as many clubs as you can, ones you enjoy. The groups will provide you with an opportunity to get the feeling, get the inspiration you just may be looking for. Start reading about various careers that you may be interested in or things you like to do and see if the work involved is something you are suited for. Talk to people, get opinions, advice and information on various fields of work. Be around motivated people. Do not shy away from people who do know what they want in a career. You may be certain about other aspects of your life that they aren't, so do not feel perplexed right now. We all go through phases of life differently and it's perfectly alright for you to not have made a decision yet. Do not let indecisiveness be a barrier.

Take small steps - mini-goals. One step at a time will lead you to larger goals being accomplished. What has been positive in your life so far ? What do you want to contribute ? Make lists and mini-plans. You will also at some point need to earn money so make sure whatever job you take has some practical reward in it for you too. Figure out if you would like to go to college, trade school or something that may require a short training and certification. Always ask detailed questions for accurate and focused information. If you go to college and still aren't sure about a career choice, that's fine too. College is the perfect realm for discovering many things including career choices. The reason you are finding it complex is that you may be feeling uncomfortable about it because maybe you're comparing yourself to others. The main thing to do about it is to provide yourself with lots of social and education experiences and before you know it, you will be inspired by the positive influences around you.

I hope that this was a bit of a help. I wish you all the best in discovering the career that you will love !
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. You are the best person to answer this question on what you have interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, your favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, musical artist, music producer, music composer, etc.
If you would like to have maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working on these careers . Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
On the other hand, your interest may change throughout your life. Hence, you may change your career in the future. This happens to many people.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
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Chuqi’s Answer

It is indeed a very complex decision to make, so there's absolutely no need to hurry. Give yourself the freedom to explore all the career options available to you. Start by identifying what makes you happy on a daily basis, then reflect on what you are good at or areas where you shine. Make a note of these, and soon enough, you'll begin to notice potential career paths surfacing. Engage with people who are already working in these sectors, or, even better, land an internship to gain first-hand experience of what these professions involve. Gradually, you'll find yourself getting closer to your decision.
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Leila’s Answer

Hello Kat,
You have to start from somewhere, once you'll be on the path you'll discover yourself day by day, what you like doing and what you don't and what you will found out can be unexpected for you, also thinking about your study path.

Job market as we know it now, is different from how it used to be, companies are constantly shifting and even if you work for long time in the same company it's different with the advancement of tech, innovation, economics and the same job is not the same job.

Think about the following question: why do you think you need to spend the rest of your life doing the same job?
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Robert’s Answer

Do what you truly like. But make sure it’s something people need and pays you enough to be happy. And remember, nothing is permanent; you can always try something new, based on the skills you have. Be well, work hard, have fun!
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Aisha’s Answer

Hello Kat,

First off, I want to celebrate your determination to pursue your dreams. That's an admirable first move! Here's a practical approach you could follow: start by writing down all your dreams and goals. Once you have them all down, prioritize them based on their importance to you, from the most significant to the least. The next step is to concentrate on making these dreams come true. I'm cheering for you on this thrilling adventure!

Have you come across the concept of SMART goals? SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. When you set your goals using these criteria, you're making sure they're both realistic and achievable within a certain time period. This method can be a potent ally in helping you realize your dreams.

Best wishes,
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Tara’s Answer

That's just it, you don't know until the day that you know. I am known as a Jack of all trades because there isn't much I havent done. That is not the route I think you should take, but I don't regret my path. I loved every step of it. Okay stay on track. We tend to know what we like to do, it just sometimes it's hard to translate it into what we want to do for a living. What Aisha T. mentioned is definitely a good place to start. Start working in that field. Move around in the many aspects of that field to see where you fit best. Avoid complacency! Sometimes complacency looks like a dream job because of the offerings and comfort it provides. Don't become complacent and work a job based on comfort. I think if the job provides those things you seek and remains challenging, your carerr will find you and you will know. Just because you choose to do something your whole life does not mean that choice continue to look the same over time but sometimes grow into other parts of something else.
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Jasmine’s Answer

It's hard to know for certain. Sometimes even when you do that job transforms into something you didn't expect but still enjoy or it could take years until you really figure out what that long-term career is for you. I went from someone who knew what they wanted to do then completely changed direction around the time I graduated college. You're going to continue to grow, learn so many new things, and meet new people that those experiences may influence what you end up doing and what you find yourself doing later on in the long term. I believe what's really important is thinking about your values and passions. If there's something you love doing and you want that to also be your career then go for, but if you find yourself a few years out wanting to try something different that's totally fine. It's not wrong to pivot and it's not wrong to stay in the same career trajectory all of your life either. Realize that everyone's journey is different and there isn't always a linear path to get to that final destination. Maybe you'll end up taking a direct flight or perhaps you'll end up doing multiple stops to check out other places on the way before you get to your final destination. Either way you'll still get there, and what's most important is that you're meeting your goals and that you're still enjoying the path you're on.

Jasmine recommends the following next steps:

What goals do you want to achieve and what are you passionate about?
Remind yourself that it's okay to pivot and change direction.
It may take time, new experiences, meeting people, but the career that's right for you will become clear and how you navigate your career is up to you. Stay true to yourself, your values, your passions, and the kind of impact you want to make.
After some time in your career assess again if what you're doing is aligning to your passions and goals. If so, maybe it's best to continue, and if not, maybe it'll be time for a change.
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Jasmine’s Answer

Answer provided by a new hire cohort at Cloudera:
It’s rare that you know with 100% certainty what you want to do for the rest of your life. We are always changing, growing, and experiencing new things. Always be curious, work hard, and open to trying new things
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Misha’s Answer

Find out what you are passionate about in life and what your core values are. What do you want to accomplish in your life and what factors of a job are important to you? Take that information and develop a roadmap on how to get there. It’s okay to not be sure exactly where you want to go in your life, but you should also be okay with taking steps to get to where you eventually want to be for your “dream job.”

Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Katie, Gagandeep, Chandler, and Emhoff

Misha recommends the following next steps:

Work backwards from what you are passionate about
If you can find a career that aligns with your passion and meets your living expenses – jackpot!
Otherwise, find a job/career that can sustain your passion.
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