4 answers
Madeline
Student
Delavan, Wisconsin
1
Question
Asked
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What do I do if I don't know exactly what to do but have an idea?
I've had an interest in becoming a phycologist but I don't know if that's the way to go for a career.
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Sometimes we need to do some reflection to determine what we want to achieve in our life.
I have a simple formula, when it comes to determining what career or job path to pursue, which is:
What is something, that you love to do so much in life, that if they did not pay you to do it, you would still enthusiastically jump up every morning, and go to the office and do it anyway?
Something where you cannot wait to get to work every morning, and you are the last to leave every evening.
When you can answer this question, and find the career that you have passion in pursuing, then you on the correct career path.
I have a simple formula, when it comes to determining what career or job path to pursue, which is:
What is something, that you love to do so much in life, that if they did not pay you to do it, you would still enthusiastically jump up every morning, and go to the office and do it anyway?
Something where you cannot wait to get to work every morning, and you are the last to leave every evening.
When you can answer this question, and find the career that you have passion in pursuing, then you on the correct career path.
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Madeline,
"What do I do if I don't know exactly what to do but have an idea?" You relax and realize that most everyone is in the same boat. The fact that you do have an idea, and, in my opinion, a good one, puts you ahead of the game. You have to start somewhere. So, why does psychology appeal to you? Is it because of personal experiences or a desire to help people or an interest in the subject, or some combination? The best way to know if it's for you is to take an Introduction to Psychology class, or whatever class might be most closely related to it at the High School level. As long as psychology seems to you to be the best idea at this point, pursue it. You'll be taking other classes as well, and maybe something else, or just life experiences, will lead you in another direction. But I, personally, love psychology, having taught it. Watch the video "Everybody Rides the Carousel." I think you can find it online. It's old, but if you can get past that, it's wonderful. There are also awesome videos on "The Allegory of the Cave," when you're ready for it.
"What do I do if I don't know exactly what to do but have an idea?" You relax and realize that most everyone is in the same boat. The fact that you do have an idea, and, in my opinion, a good one, puts you ahead of the game. You have to start somewhere. So, why does psychology appeal to you? Is it because of personal experiences or a desire to help people or an interest in the subject, or some combination? The best way to know if it's for you is to take an Introduction to Psychology class, or whatever class might be most closely related to it at the High School level. As long as psychology seems to you to be the best idea at this point, pursue it. You'll be taking other classes as well, and maybe something else, or just life experiences, will lead you in another direction. But I, personally, love psychology, having taught it. Watch the video "Everybody Rides the Carousel." I think you can find it online. It's old, but if you can get past that, it's wonderful. There are also awesome videos on "The Allegory of the Cave," when you're ready for it.
angela Xu
chief of staff
2
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
angela’s Answer
To find a "dream career" is a life-time job. While people grow in their careers, new opportunities come out which could lead to new careers.
To find a first career, I would suggest that you start looking at what you are good at, and in which careers those skills will be useful. You start from there, getting ahead in the game using your strength, and assess it in about 6-12 months to see if this is something you enjoy as a career. In my own experience, I found all careers I didn't like in my first 5 years. I found a career that fits me in my late 30s.
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To find a first career, I would suggest that you start looking at what you are good at, and in which careers those skills will be useful. You start from there, getting ahead in the game using your strength, and assess it in about 6-12 months to see if this is something you enjoy as a career. In my own experience, I found all careers I didn't like in my first 5 years. I found a career that fits me in my late 30s.
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vanessa palafox
2
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
vanessa’s Answer
Discovering your dream career can be as simple as identifying what truly interests you and pursuing it with all your heart. Each broad subject has many facets, so there's a high chance you'll uncover something in that field that sparks your passion. Alternatively, you might realize it's not for you at all. But remember, every step you take brings you closer to finding your true calling. So, keep exploring and stay positive, because your perfect career is waiting for you to find it.