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How did you know that you chose the right career?

like did you feel it in your gut, or did you do lots and lots of research or did you get help? Tell me your secret!

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Subject: Career question for you

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Esther’s Answer

Finding your career is a journey of discovery. You can’t nail that decision done to a single moment. It’s a matter of making many small decisions, acting on them, evaluating, and then deciding on the next one. At least that’s how it’s been for me. Here’s a bit of my story. Hopefully it’s helpful :)

All through high school I was determined to be an author. So I took creative writing classes and dedicated a huge portion of my free time to learning and practicing story writing. I felt like I got pretty good at it. But I also liked other subjects, especially math and science, so I pursued those in school too.

My senior year of high school, I realized I wanted to continue learning more in STEM. Part of this was because of career options, but I also was just curious and wanted to learn more. So I decided on an engineering degree. I researched a bunch of colleges and visited some (in-state options that were reasonable to travel to). When I toured Utah State University, I felt at peace, like I was being called to study there, so I chose that college.

Throughout college I learned so much more about my interests, my strengths, and my weaknesses. That in and of itself was extremely valuable. Then, as part of my required engineering courses, I had to take some computer science classes. I loved it! Since I was pretty far along with my degree, I decided to add computer science as a minor rather than completely change my major.

Post-college, I started applying for jobs. Since I was qualified for both mechanical engineering and software engineering, I applied for both types of work. I ended up with a coding job that I love. Surprisingly, I also get to do quite a bit of writing at work! I thought I’d given up on writing professionally when I chose to study engineering, but nope, that passion was still alive too!

This is just the beginning of my career. There’s still so much ahead. I don’t know for sure where I’ll end up, though I have ideas of things I would like. I keep evaluating my options and taking it one step at a time. And I’m sure I’ll keep doing that, no matter where I’m at in life.

So all that to say, it’s okay to take small steps and to change course occasionally. For me, important decisions are also spiritual matters, so I will pray and ask God to guide my decision-making too. There’s lots of ways to make decisions—whether that is researching and analyzing options or just going with your gut. But most of all, just TRY. Try something, even if you’re not 100% sure. Oftentimes it’s in the doing that you decide whether or not something is right for you.
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Paul’s Answer

I knew that I was in the correct job and the right career path when I woke up each morning and I could not wait to get into the office.

I loved what I was doing so much that I was literally the first person to reach work in the morning, and I was the last to leave in the evening.

When you attain that level of mindset, you will know you are in the right job.
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Brian’s Answer

Hi Aneceya,

That's a great question to ask...but also a hard answer to give. I would say that determining career satisfaction for myself is in part what I do, but also, with what industry, with what type of people, what company, etc . I am a finance/accounting person so I have done numerous jobs in that field for a few different companies.

My first "career" job I worked with a very large retailer. It was a very fun environment, lots of interactions, lots of opportunities. But my day was 7-7 everyday and it wore me down. I held 3 different roles there over 5 years.

My next job I worked for a very small packaging and distribution company. While it was doing similar work, the company though was very small, people around me were unhappy, thinking was not progressive, and there was little team work. There was no opportunity for growth. I stayed there for maybe one year.

My current telecommunications company I have been with for 21 years and probably won't leave until I retire. I still do work in finance and accounting and over that time, I have done 8 different jobs. My career satisfaction has more to do with my company as much as it has to do with my everyday job. My company welcomes their employees taking on new roles and trying something different. It rewards me and recognizes me for the work I have done and the contributions I have made. People collaborate all the time and there is so much learning that can happen amongst teams. There is always a new challenge and ways to develop yourself.

There are a of of paths to take when it comes to finding the "right" career. In my case, it is the right company as much as it is the right job. I'm sure the next folks who respond to your question will have their own stories and experiences to share. Just don't think there is one right way to approach this. Give yourself some targets, go after them, and see where it takes you. Only you can decide what job and situation resonates with how it makes you feel internally. Just don't pigeon hole yourself into one thing. You just don't want to regret not trying something even if it ends up not being what you thought. Good luck !
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Natasha’s Answer

Hi! This is a question I still ask myself! I got an interesting piece of advice in college that at the time I didn't understand, but now take to heart. "You don't have to have one single career in your life, you can have 4-5; just follow your heart and passions, and if they change over time that is okay." I always thought that I would have one single career, in one field, and stay there forever. After graduating, I realized that based on my interests, I might have a couple of careers throughout my life, and that has gotten me even more excited for what's to come. Don't limit yourself and don't feel like if you no longer get joy from a specific career that you have to tough it out. Embrace the change, and figure out how to make it work for you!
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Stefan’s Answer

Speaking on behalf of our dedicated volunteer team at HPE:

Can we truly foresee the future? Perhaps not, but we can certainly envision it, especially when we reach the pinnacle of our careers and glance back. What truly mattered? Was it the thrilling journey to the summit or merely the accomplishment of reaching it?

Some of us relish exploring the myriad opportunities along the way, while others take pleasure in recounting their triumphs. So, what kind of person are you?

Begin with small steps: at the end of a workday, take a moment to reflect. Was it a day filled with joy, rich experiences, and extraordinary accomplishments, or just another day of reaching expected milestones?

Gradually extend this practice of reflection over longer time frames: a week, a month, a semester, half a year, or even a full year at work. Assess what brings you happiness, what fuels your energy. Remember, work is a means to support our lives, not the other way around. Once you reach this understanding, it's crucial to find joy in your work and draw energy from it, in whatever form that may take.

By starting with these small, reflective exercises, you lay a strong foundation to navigate your career for the rest of your working life. So, let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth together!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Aneceya!

ME:-

Yes the palpable stress of adrenaline in the gut. An uncle died of a massive coronary at 38 years-of-age.

When I was a boy of 13 my parents bought me a Christmas present then a birthday present both of them were refractor lens telescopes. Suddenly I wanted to be an astronomer. I suppose I was an amateur astronomer. My parents could not afford an eight-inch reflector telescope which was $375 in 1970. I took to grinding my own telescope mirrors.

This course of study towards astrophysics or astronomy necessitated taking really heavy stem subjects like physics. in 1972 the teacher taught computing. Over the next 52 years I did self-study and developing software. I had to repeat grade 11, my parents allowed me to do it in 1973. In 1974 I was in grade 12 and my 38 year old uncle, my father's brother died of a massive coronary.

Then the weirdest thing happened I was at a new university and my dad uncle Mike's old supervisor Professor Masters, from 1960 came to lecture in biochemistry. Things happen. I call it "An Act if God." Well yours faithfully changed majors to biochemistry and started reading up on nutrition. My father died at 50 years of age in 1985. I had seen enough coronary artery disease. I became a dietitian in 1988.

With AI-assisted writing you can write a book in an hour! It is starting to impinge on software authoring too. Just assign the topic and the artificial intelligence does the rest! Use PDFDrive to see what is out there in published books as a reference source. Web Address:-
https://www.pdfdrive.com/

Me I was writing a daily diary years ago, but someone stole the USB stick. I think more my style is the crafting of computer software for nutrition education. I have been self-teaching myself since 1972. The teacher started me off in grade 11 physics class when there were not really many personal computers. I have been studying nutrition since 1976. I became a dietitian
in 1988.

The topic that really interested me was Californian Professor Linus Pauling's orthomolecular nutrition. This involves the treatment of diseases with nutrients God's Pharmacopeia - not man's. I had the good fortune to talk to Lady Dr Phyllis Cilento in 1981. She was recommending me studying orthomolecular nutrition. This involves using 'the right molecules' like amino-acids, vitamins, and minerals to treat illnesses. Phyllis told me to do the postgraduate diploma in Sydney. I worked with natural therapists and medical doctors that use vitamins and orthomolecular nutrition therapy.

I combined the two talents when in 1994 a patient told me that the one-day sample menus were not sufficient to tell her what to eat. Neither were the food group selection lists from many dietitians. This patient wanted a 14-day food menu! I set about crafting the necessary software to do the job. Seven computer languages later I made Diet Wizard.

AI:-

Understanding Career Choice: How to Know You’ve Chosen the Right Path

Choosing the right career is a significant decision that can impact various aspects of life, including personal satisfaction, financial stability, and overall well-being. There are several methods individuals use to determine if they have made the right career choice. Here’s a detailed exploration of these methods:

1. Self-Reflection and Gut Feeling

Many people report that their initial attraction to a career often stems from an intrinsic feeling or gut instinct. This intuitive response can be influenced by personal interests, values, and passions. Reflecting on what activities bring joy and fulfillment can provide insights into whether a chosen career aligns with one’s true self. For instance, if someone feels energized when engaging in certain tasks or discussions related to their field, it may indicate a good fit.

2. Research and Exploration

In addition to gut feelings, thorough research plays a crucial role in making informed decisions about careers. This includes:

Understanding Job Roles: Investigating specific job descriptions, responsibilities, and required skills helps clarify what daily work looks like in that field.

Industry Trends: Keeping abreast of industry developments can inform whether the chosen career has growth potential or is becoming obsolete.

Educational Requirements: Knowing what qualifications are necessary for advancement can help gauge whether one is willing to pursue further education or training.

3. Seeking Guidance from Professionals

Consulting with career counselors or mentors can provide valuable perspectives. These professionals often utilize assessments (like personality tests) to help individuals identify strengths and weaknesses related to various careers. They can also offer insights based on their experiences in the field.

4. Networking and Informational Interviews

Engaging with professionals already working in the desired field through networking events or informational interviews allows aspiring individuals to gain firsthand knowledge about the realities of the job. This interaction can reveal both positive aspects and potential challenges associated with the career path.

5. Trial Experiences

Internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time jobs within the field can serve as practical experiences that allow individuals to test their interest and aptitude for a particular career without long-term commitment. Such experiences provide clarity on whether one enjoys the work environment and tasks involved.

6. Continuous Evaluation

Career satisfaction is not static; it requires ongoing evaluation as personal circumstances change over time. Regularly assessing one’s happiness in their role—considering factors such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, and alignment with personal values—can help determine if adjustments are needed.

In summary, knowing if you’ve chosen the right career involves a combination of self-reflection, research, professional guidance, networking opportunities, trial experiences, and continuous evaluation of your situation over time.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS provides comprehensive data on job roles, industry trends, salary information, and employment projections which are essential for understanding various careers.

2. National Career Development Association (NCDA)
The NCDA offers resources for career counseling practices including assessment tools that help individuals explore their interests and strengths related to different careers.

3. American Psychological Association (APA)
The APA publishes research on occupational psychology which examines how personality traits influence career choices and satisfaction levels across different professions.

Probability that the answer is correct: 95%

God Bless Your Endeavors!
JC.
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Edwin Anthony’s Answer

"Written on behalf of a group of volunteers at HPE":
• Actively seek out job or internship opportunities that align with your unique skills and capabilities.
• After a period of six months to a year in your job or internship, take the time to conduct a self-assessment. Determine whether you're still deriving satisfaction from your work or if it's causing you stress.
• If you find your current role stressful, don't hesitate to explore other options.
• Make it a point to gather substantial feedback from your colleagues, including co-workers and supervisors, within your workplace.

Edwin Anthony recommends the following next steps:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-find-career-coach
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. You are the best person to answer this question. You would know whether you have interest in the career. Below arey suggestions to find a career you have interest:
1. Think about what you have interest eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg 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, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Your interest may change throughout your life time, you may change the career. This is very normal.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
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Kim’s Answer

Hi Aneceya
You have a lot of great advice to consider from other mentors. One additional option is to gain some insight into your natural strengths and what career path may be the most optimal to leverage those strengths. This could serve as a roadmap/guideline as you consider different paths you can take or even be used as your career path continues to confirm "good fits" for you. There are several assessments that will help you with this process. My favorite is StrengthsFinder. But I encourage you to research more and find one that best suits your needs. My very best to you on this exciting journey.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Aneceya,

Artificial Intelligence, though advanced, may not be the perfect fit for this approach - we need the warmth of human interaction! AI, unfortunately, cannot replicate the depth of human emotions. It's like knowing instinctively what needs to be done to ensure the well-being of everyone involved, including yourself. This is something that comes naturally to some people. Moreover, AI tends to steer clear of any discussion involving divine intelligence. So, seek what resonates most with you and the Divine.

What am I trying to convey? It's about making a positive impact on as many lives as possible simultaneously. I'm referring to noble professions like teaching, nursing, medicine, and nutrition and dietetics. These skills might be ingrained in you, passed down from your parents. Observing their actions can help you discover your talents to a certain extent.

In my case, I transitioned from a career in astronomy to nutrition and dietetics. I was fascinated by the stars, but I couldn't ignore the fact that my Greek relatives were succumbing to cardiovascular diseases. I felt compelled to assist those battling illnesses and dealing with the loss of loved ones. I recall an incident from 1975 when I was a lifeguard, and we failed to resuscitate a heart attack victim. The doctor's announcement and the subsequent screams of the family still echo in my mind.

If you feel a strong urge to help others, you'll realize that there's a significant number of people in need worldwide; nearly 1 billion are starving. This figure is likely to increase with the ongoing Israeli-Gaza conflict. I believe we need an International Court of Law to prevent such military conflicts. I admire Caroline, JFK's daughter, for her commendable work as the US Ambassador to Australia. Such influential individuals shape the world's outcomes. It's high time we put an end to conflicts and focus on feeding and housing everyone.

Some people might find their calling in art or music, contributing to human culture in their unique way. Pursue what brings you joy and relaxation. If your job causes stress, perhaps it's time to reconsider. Nobody deserves to work under an abusive boss. You deserve praise, not criticism! Remember, this phase is temporary!

May The Lord Our God Bless Your Endeavors Abundantly!
JAMES.
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david’s Answer

The real answer is "You may never know." I don't mean that as a negative statement. Just the opposite. As you mature, your skills and interests will continue to expand. A young person sees only a handful of possible careers, but as years go by, you will see hundreds of careers. The only important factor is whether you enjoy what you do, not whether it is the perfect career for you. And, no matter how much you may enjoy what you do, there will always be the possibility that someday you will be exposed to a different career and want immediately to make a switch. My final tip: Don't let an increased salary ever temp you to a different career. Having more money does not make you happy. All the best to you.
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