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What job recommendations do you have?
Something you enjoy to do or have a really strong talent for, and when you find that
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9 answers
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Richard J (Rich)’s Answer
Hi - I will provide a very short answer - though the above responses are really good too
You spend more waking hours at work than you do at home or doing anything else. What do you really want to do when you wake up every morning. Hopefully your talent is what that enjoyment is and you can combine the two.
That said - it may take a few tries to finally figure out what the long term "I really enjoy waking up in the morning" job is - but you should strive for a day that is meaningful, productive, rewarding, and enjoyable. So, pursue that passion if you are able.
Oh what does "if you are able" mean - that means there are times in your working life you may have to do what you have to do and not what you want to do to get by - but hopefully those times are few and far between.
I wish you the best in you "find my working happy place" journey
You spend more waking hours at work than you do at home or doing anything else. What do you really want to do when you wake up every morning. Hopefully your talent is what that enjoyment is and you can combine the two.
That said - it may take a few tries to finally figure out what the long term "I really enjoy waking up in the morning" job is - but you should strive for a day that is meaningful, productive, rewarding, and enjoyable. So, pursue that passion if you are able.
Oh what does "if you are able" mean - that means there are times in your working life you may have to do what you have to do and not what you want to do to get by - but hopefully those times are few and far between.
I wish you the best in you "find my working happy place" journey
Updated
Ann’s Answer
I would first consider what you enjoy doing. Do you like to sit in front of the computer for long periods of time? Or would that be boring for you? Do you enjoy being outside for long periods of time? In all seasons/all kinds of weather? What subjects did/do you enjoy in school and what hobbies do you enjoy? I considered all of that when trying to decide on a career.
I love working with numbers but after 2 college classes in accounting I knew I would hate accounting. I started working at a hospital 23 years ago and new immediately I would be happiest working in healthcare. I knew I would love an office job since my original career goal was to be a teacher. I found out about medical coding while working as an admin assistant in that hospital and I knew that was what I wanted to do. I could still work with numbers, work in an office setting, and after researching the medical coding field I knew there were many different career paths. I would not, however, recommend coding as a career. It has changed drastically since I started and it is extremely difficult to get that first job. Expensive too for the training and certifications.
Think about what you enjoy and what you can and cannot envision yourself doing for long periods of time. Those are good starting points.
I love working with numbers but after 2 college classes in accounting I knew I would hate accounting. I started working at a hospital 23 years ago and new immediately I would be happiest working in healthcare. I knew I would love an office job since my original career goal was to be a teacher. I found out about medical coding while working as an admin assistant in that hospital and I knew that was what I wanted to do. I could still work with numbers, work in an office setting, and after researching the medical coding field I knew there were many different career paths. I would not, however, recommend coding as a career. It has changed drastically since I started and it is extremely difficult to get that first job. Expensive too for the training and certifications.
Think about what you enjoy and what you can and cannot envision yourself doing for long periods of time. Those are good starting points.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
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Paul’s Answer
It has to be something, that you love to do so much, that if they did not pay you for it, you would still do it anyway.
If you are doing something you love to do, then your quality of work is always excellent.
People who do not like the job they are doing, do not have high quality of work. So, find something you love to do. When you love your job, and the quality of work is good, higher compensation follows you.
If you are doing something you love to do, then your quality of work is always excellent.
People who do not like the job they are doing, do not have high quality of work. So, find something you love to do. When you love your job, and the quality of work is good, higher compensation follows you.
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Marlyce’s Answer
Have you considered exploring job shadowing? Engage with your school or career counselor, they can provide valuable guidance. Some institutions offer assessments to help you identify your unique strengths. When I was 14, I aspired to be a paramedic. However, during my final year of high school, I enrolled in an EMT class. While gaining the necessary experience to enter paramedic school, I was offered an on-the-job training opportunity in Respiratory Therapy. I found it so fulfilling that I decided to attend Respiratory Therapy school and became an RT! Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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Tara’s Answer
Such a good (and challenging!) question, with some great insights offered above. I'll offer my take here for you to consider as well.
Similar to Rich's answer, it may take a few tries to find something that you genuinely *enjoy,* but a job can also be something you are generally content with and allows you to do the thing(s) that truly make you happy or excited. In my career, I've had jobs that I was so excited and committed to, that they became my life -- I ended up working 60-70 hours per week, leaving little time for friends or hobbies. I've also had jobs that I didn't find overly exciting, but I liked the people I worked with and didn't mind the work itself, and the job allowed me ample time to be involved in other activities that did bring me a lot of joy. I don't think either of these options was better or worse than the other, they were right for the time of life I was in at the time.
When looking for a new role, I like to think about the type of work that will be done on a full spectrum, not just the 'dream' activities. Think about the type of tasks you do every day: things you do for other people, at home, in your classes, or if you've had a job recently (part-time or otherwise), what you do in that space. I like to categorize the tasks into three categories:
1) Things I love doing and am excited to do (for me, this is any time I get to spend time with or helping people, or in school, working on research papers)
2) Things I'm ok with... maybe I'm not excited to do, but I don't hate them either (for me, this might include some of the more mundane administrative work. I don't mind doing it, sometimes it's calming, but it's not what I look forward to)
3) Things I actively try to avoid or get out of if I can (At home, the chore I hate the most is vacuuming. In school, the homework I avoided most was math... which is really too bad because I wasn't bad at it!)
Knowing some of the things you like, are 'ok' with, and also that you dislike can help to put together a profile of the type of work you might enjoy. When you look at job descriptions, you'll get an idea of how much might align with your list; if an awesome company has a cool-sounding job, but lists a lot of activities that seem to align with your 'I don't like this' list...it's probably not a good fit. This list can also help to expand your search beyond a certain industry or job title. I've gotten to expand my experience between tech, education, and HR companies in my career, largely because I have been more focused on people and leadership, rather than a single industry.
As you gain more work experience, it will also become clearer for you if and when there are deal breakers (think things like schedules, commutes, or management), and this can also help to shape what you look for and what you are willing to accept. As others have noted above, there are times when we just need a job to help make ends meet, but these can still be learning experiences and help you both gain skills and get clear about what you want next.
Wishing you all the best as you seek out this next job! I hope that at a minimum you get to learn new things, and that it either is fun and engaging for you or allows you to do the things that you want to do.
Think about the tasks you do every day (in life, work, and school) and divide them into 3 categories: 1) Things you enjoy, 2) things you're 'ok' with, and 3) Things you do not like doing.
Think about what you need or want to have time and energy for outside of work.
Similar to Rich's answer, it may take a few tries to find something that you genuinely *enjoy,* but a job can also be something you are generally content with and allows you to do the thing(s) that truly make you happy or excited. In my career, I've had jobs that I was so excited and committed to, that they became my life -- I ended up working 60-70 hours per week, leaving little time for friends or hobbies. I've also had jobs that I didn't find overly exciting, but I liked the people I worked with and didn't mind the work itself, and the job allowed me ample time to be involved in other activities that did bring me a lot of joy. I don't think either of these options was better or worse than the other, they were right for the time of life I was in at the time.
When looking for a new role, I like to think about the type of work that will be done on a full spectrum, not just the 'dream' activities. Think about the type of tasks you do every day: things you do for other people, at home, in your classes, or if you've had a job recently (part-time or otherwise), what you do in that space. I like to categorize the tasks into three categories:
1) Things I love doing and am excited to do (for me, this is any time I get to spend time with or helping people, or in school, working on research papers)
2) Things I'm ok with... maybe I'm not excited to do, but I don't hate them either (for me, this might include some of the more mundane administrative work. I don't mind doing it, sometimes it's calming, but it's not what I look forward to)
3) Things I actively try to avoid or get out of if I can (At home, the chore I hate the most is vacuuming. In school, the homework I avoided most was math... which is really too bad because I wasn't bad at it!)
Knowing some of the things you like, are 'ok' with, and also that you dislike can help to put together a profile of the type of work you might enjoy. When you look at job descriptions, you'll get an idea of how much might align with your list; if an awesome company has a cool-sounding job, but lists a lot of activities that seem to align with your 'I don't like this' list...it's probably not a good fit. This list can also help to expand your search beyond a certain industry or job title. I've gotten to expand my experience between tech, education, and HR companies in my career, largely because I have been more focused on people and leadership, rather than a single industry.
As you gain more work experience, it will also become clearer for you if and when there are deal breakers (think things like schedules, commutes, or management), and this can also help to shape what you look for and what you are willing to accept. As others have noted above, there are times when we just need a job to help make ends meet, but these can still be learning experiences and help you both gain skills and get clear about what you want next.
Wishing you all the best as you seek out this next job! I hope that at a minimum you get to learn new things, and that it either is fun and engaging for you or allows you to do the things that you want to do.
Tara recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
Hello!
Discovering your ideal job takes a significant amount of research and I believe that your ideal career is a blend of your passions and talents. While I can't suggest a specific job for you, I can certainly offer some actionable advice on factors to consider during your career exploration.
To start with, pinpoint the subjects, hobbies, or activities that interest you. This step will help you rule out areas that don't pique your interest. Investigate potential majors and careers tied to a specific subject. For instance, if Biology is something you enjoy, ask yourself, "What job can I land with a Biology major? What will my academic journey look like to reach that goal?" This stage of the process will require a good deal of research and introspection on your preferred focus area.
Next, engage in conversations with your peers, academic advisors, and even professionals in the industry about potential fields that might interest you.
The timeline for discovering one's "dream" job varies from person to person. However, conducting thorough research on potential jobs and reflecting on your aspirations, goals, and interests will certainly guide you towards it! Wishing you the best on this exciting journey.
Discovering your ideal job takes a significant amount of research and I believe that your ideal career is a blend of your passions and talents. While I can't suggest a specific job for you, I can certainly offer some actionable advice on factors to consider during your career exploration.
To start with, pinpoint the subjects, hobbies, or activities that interest you. This step will help you rule out areas that don't pique your interest. Investigate potential majors and careers tied to a specific subject. For instance, if Biology is something you enjoy, ask yourself, "What job can I land with a Biology major? What will my academic journey look like to reach that goal?" This stage of the process will require a good deal of research and introspection on your preferred focus area.
Next, engage in conversations with your peers, academic advisors, and even professionals in the industry about potential fields that might interest you.
The timeline for discovering one's "dream" job varies from person to person. However, conducting thorough research on potential jobs and reflecting on your aspirations, goals, and interests will certainly guide you towards it! Wishing you the best on this exciting journey.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello,
In 1972, during my eleventh-grade physics class in Brisbane, our instructor introduced us to the world of programming. We used HB pencil marks on computer cards and programmed with a PDP ten computer at the University of Queensland's physics department.
This sparked a lifelong passion for programming, and over the next 52 years, I mastered 10 different computer languages. It's a skill I find surprisingly simple.
My academic journey also led me to study dietetics 37 years ago. Although it lacked the rigorous mathematics I craved, I found value in it. I continued to pursue mathematics at university, discovering that a dietitian's knowledge could significantly enhance people's sports performance, academic abilities, and overall health.
With the rise of metabolic syndrome diseases in our society, it's crucial to focus on a healthy diet, especially considering how our physical activity is limited due to our reliance on cars.
I've managed to merge my love for computing and dietetics, leading me to develop nutrition education software. My teaching journey began in 1975, when I tutored, trained workplace trainers, and taught medical students at the university in 1982.
I bring a wealth of experience to the table. In 1968 other teachers would come and ask our teacher if they could borrow me to give a lecture on science to their class!
I believe it would be beneficial for you to read my bio and learn about the nutritional foods that can boost your body's performance, both academically and physically. Thanks for reading!
God Bless,
James.
In 1972, during my eleventh-grade physics class in Brisbane, our instructor introduced us to the world of programming. We used HB pencil marks on computer cards and programmed with a PDP ten computer at the University of Queensland's physics department.
This sparked a lifelong passion for programming, and over the next 52 years, I mastered 10 different computer languages. It's a skill I find surprisingly simple.
My academic journey also led me to study dietetics 37 years ago. Although it lacked the rigorous mathematics I craved, I found value in it. I continued to pursue mathematics at university, discovering that a dietitian's knowledge could significantly enhance people's sports performance, academic abilities, and overall health.
With the rise of metabolic syndrome diseases in our society, it's crucial to focus on a healthy diet, especially considering how our physical activity is limited due to our reliance on cars.
I've managed to merge my love for computing and dietetics, leading me to develop nutrition education software. My teaching journey began in 1975, when I tutored, trained workplace trainers, and taught medical students at the university in 1982.
I bring a wealth of experience to the table. In 1968 other teachers would come and ask our teacher if they could borrow me to give a lecture on science to their class!
I believe it would be beneficial for you to read my bio and learn about the nutritional foods that can boost your body's performance, both academically and physically. Thanks for reading!
God Bless,
James.
Such an inspiring and thoughtful response, James!
God Bless you as well!
Josh Thias
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students similar question. Firstly, you have to find out what careers have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
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 to 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
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions:
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 to 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
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello Fake,
This is tricky to answer this question, because I do not know you, and do not know your passion and talent. Yet I may give some advice. I highly recommend to read my previous answers here, which you can copy and paste the links and read in your spare time.
Work Career Decision
https://www.careervillage.org/questions/772010/how-do-i-know-what-career-path-is-for-me
Achieving Your Goals
https://www.careervillage.org/questions/789572/best-way-to-take-notes-for-class
I hope this helps.
This is tricky to answer this question, because I do not know you, and do not know your passion and talent. Yet I may give some advice. I highly recommend to read my previous answers here, which you can copy and paste the links and read in your spare time.
Work Career Decision
https://www.careervillage.org/questions/772010/how-do-i-know-what-career-path-is-for-me
Achieving Your Goals
https://www.careervillage.org/questions/789572/best-way-to-take-notes-for-class
I hope this helps.