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Did you ever regret the career you chose?
How did this effect your motivation
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8 answers
Updated
Misha’s Answer
Hi John,
Great question. I'll start out by saying your career is a sum of the positions you've held since you began working. I do not regret my career because it has taken me to where I am today, which is in a job that I love with a great team. That being said, I have held jobs over the years that were not my favorite. Even in the jobs that I did not always enjoy, I did learn valuable skills at each and every one of them that set me up for success to get where I am now.
For example, while I no longer work in retail or hospitality, the customer service skills and communication skills I gained in those positions have been crucial to navigating stakeholder management in the corporate environment I am in today.
So keep an open mind! You have something to learn every where and when you feel like your learning has stopped or what you are doing no longer aligns with your values then it is time to start looking for what your next opportunity might be. If you wake up and find yourself starting to dread going to work you may have gotten all you can out of that particular position.
Great question. I'll start out by saying your career is a sum of the positions you've held since you began working. I do not regret my career because it has taken me to where I am today, which is in a job that I love with a great team. That being said, I have held jobs over the years that were not my favorite. Even in the jobs that I did not always enjoy, I did learn valuable skills at each and every one of them that set me up for success to get where I am now.
For example, while I no longer work in retail or hospitality, the customer service skills and communication skills I gained in those positions have been crucial to navigating stakeholder management in the corporate environment I am in today.
So keep an open mind! You have something to learn every where and when you feel like your learning has stopped or what you are doing no longer aligns with your values then it is time to start looking for what your next opportunity might be. If you wake up and find yourself starting to dread going to work you may have gotten all you can out of that particular position.
Updated
Cathy’s Answer
I've always looked at my career as a collection of jobs. I haven't regretted my career.
While some of my jobs haven't always lived up to my expectations, I've always learned something about myself (what I like, don't like to do), and about different aspects of a company or industry which was really helpful for me.
While some of my jobs haven't always lived up to my expectations, I've always learned something about myself (what I like, don't like to do), and about different aspects of a company or industry which was really helpful for me.
Updated
Robert’s Answer
There might be moments in your career where you feel regret over certain roles you've taken on, but it's crucial to remember that your career path isn't set in stone. Early on, it's beneficial to explore different roles and industries to discover what truly resonates with you and what you'd rather steer clear of. Your career journey is a marathon, not a sprint, so don't fret if you find yourself in a role that doesn't ignite your passion for a year or two. This experience will still equip you with valuable skills and problem-solving abilities that will serve you well in the future. Before you commit to a new role, take the time to research the company and ensure their mission aligns with your interests. Engage with the hiring manager or potential colleagues to gain insights into the day-to-day operations, what they find exciting about the job, and any challenges they face. This will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and help you make informed career decisions.
Updated
Lee’s Answer
I have regretted some of the jobs I had. Long hours, boring work, and promotion opportunities that just looked like more of the same. However, looking at those jobs as an opportunity to build skills was what ultimately helped me. I can tell you that while each job might not have been my forever job, they each allowed me to be a more capable professional, and set me up to move to a better opportunity. Remember that your first job out of high school, college, or grad school does not need to be your forever job. It takes a lot of the pressure off.
Updated
Marla’s Answer
No, I do not regret the career I have. I did have multiple jobs before I finally landed in this one - hiring interns for a Tech company. I guess for me, I approached each job as an opportunity to learn...learn about the company, learn about the industry, and learn about myself. Even the jobs I didn't like as much taught me what NOT to include in my job search. I would recommend making a list of those things that you're passionate about doing and start from there with your job search. Sometimes there won't be exact matches, but you'll have a list of things to look for in your next experience.
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Cora’s Answer
Great question - I have not regretted any choice or move in my career so far and here is why: 1) I've always been clear on why I was I was moving into a role or another - they WHY is important so that you know how to measure the success or not; 2) when it happened that the experience wasn't as fulfilling as I would expect, I would always look at it as a learning opportunity - trying to look at the glass half full rather than regretting, and making sure I wouldn't go into another role that would create a similar experience
Updated
Klair’s Answer
Hello John,
For around 16 years, I embraced the fulfilling role of a stay-at-home mom before stepping into the professional world. As my children grew older, I felt a strong desire to carve out a niche for myself beyond the home. This drive led me to my current career in Customer Service.
I can confidently affirm that I harbor no regrets about my decision! I had ample time to ponder over my potential interests and strengths. As many have pointed out, every career has its highs and lows. However, the joy you derive from your work and the predominance of good days over the bad is what truly counts.
Life is a journey, and it's perfectly fine to experience various career shifts along the way. We refer to this as growth. Perhaps you might stick with the same organization but evolve into different roles within it.
In conclusion, I strongly believe in the importance of thorough research into areas that pique your interest. Once you stumble upon something that genuinely resonates with you, seek guidance from someone more knowledgeable in that field. They can provide deeper insight into the role and help you make an informed decision.
For around 16 years, I embraced the fulfilling role of a stay-at-home mom before stepping into the professional world. As my children grew older, I felt a strong desire to carve out a niche for myself beyond the home. This drive led me to my current career in Customer Service.
I can confidently affirm that I harbor no regrets about my decision! I had ample time to ponder over my potential interests and strengths. As many have pointed out, every career has its highs and lows. However, the joy you derive from your work and the predominance of good days over the bad is what truly counts.
Life is a journey, and it's perfectly fine to experience various career shifts along the way. We refer to this as growth. Perhaps you might stick with the same organization but evolve into different roles within it.
In conclusion, I strongly believe in the importance of thorough research into areas that pique your interest. Once you stumble upon something that genuinely resonates with you, seek guidance from someone more knowledgeable in that field. They can provide deeper insight into the role and help you make an informed decision.
Updated
Ramon’s Answer
I can honestly say that I have no regrets on my choice in career paths. Like with everything in life you will have good days and bad days. The key to long term career happiness is to find the joy in what you do. I personally enjoy assisting my customers with any and all issues.