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Beauty
Student
West New York, New Jersey
1
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Wby is choosing a career so hard?
Why is choosing a career so hard as a tewn
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5 answers
Barbara Zoerner
disabled
6
Answers
Marshfield, Wisconsin
Updated
Barbara’s Answer
Your quest and angst over choosing a future career are very common. Here's the thing-what you want to do now for a career as a teen will likely change several times. It's just a given fact. I know it doesn't help when you are faced with several adults all asking, "what are you going to do with your life"? First, relax, it's not a do or die situation. Secondly, take a look at what you want in your adult life. Do you want to sacrifice for money and position? It is a sacrifice. The difference between millionaires and ordinary people are two-fold: be willing to take the risk and be willing to put personal ties in the background. People don't become millionaires by sitting on the couch watching Netflix. They are constantly running scenarios in their head as to how to make a chance encounter work, how to push beyond the limits of what is available to what is possible. This is often referred to as marketing "how to build a better mousetrap" because a better mousetrap and everyone would buy it and you would be rich.
Decide what YOU want in your adult life. Is it money? Fame? A secure retirement? Travel? Then go to your local public library or online and take some aptitude tests for what interests you. Do your research on the careers that interest you. Are you willing to put in 8+ years of college study and internships or will you be better served taking a mixture of community college classes to see what areas of study fire your brain and make you happy? All of life is a trade-off and many people don't acknowledge this. Your work is not your life. You work to enhance your life whether that is through earning money, having a schedule you decide for yourself, or making a difference in the world. You get to choose. And, once you choose, guess what? You can change your mind! It is not your grandmother's era. You don't have to accept the lowest bottom rung of what life throws at you. Through your actions and diligence, you make your own path. What works for one person doesn't work for another.
What I will say is this...don't ignore the non-traditional learning opportunities. Ask a family member or friend to go to work with them one day to shadow and find out what exactly it is that they do. Get that glimpse behind the curtain at a day in the life of a beautician, accountant, landscaper, tow truck driver, or whatever other opportunities you can get. Keep a journal. Write down what you liked and didn't like about the job or day. Make note of if the person said it was a typical day or not. Then, write how you feel at the end of the day. Was the job too physical? Did shouting customers make you want to hide? Did you enjoy it? You will discover that certain things make you happier than others.
And, if you reach the end of high school and still don't have a plan-you have options. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, humanitarian aid, or join the military. Do NOT go by yourself or sign anything on your first visit. Recruiters are trained in how to make having to paint rocks daily a great job. What does this option offer you? First is time. Time to get some exposure to a real career in a safe environment where they pay you, give you the clothes you need, food and housing while you find out what having a real job is like. Second is education, take advantage of the education benefits (totally free except for books). Third is the physical training (to stay healthy, relax and clear your mind). And fourth, a trade with real certificates that you can use when you get out (if you pick a military job that translates into a civilian career). Extra benefits are full medical and dental, travel to great places in your paid thirty days of leave yearly and establishing friendships that never go away. Of course, if you like the life, yes, that can be your career. Most people don't stay for the twenty years to achieve full retirement. You do what makes the best fit for you.
Know that yes, you can wander through a community college or a local university, but it will cost. Ways to do it for free or at a reduced price-work there! Yes, most educational facilities offer free tuition to their employees. It's a two-fold benefit. Their workforce becomes better educated and you get free or reduced tuition. One thing to be aware of is to not incur debt getting your education. We are all aware of how much a degree costs these days. Try not to saddle yourself with crushing student debt or accept one of the student credit card offers you will be certain to receive. This is a predatory practice used by companies to ensure they can get you to pay exorbitant rates.
If you have done any career research, you likely know that most people change career fields many times during their working lifespan. You don't have to have all of the answers when you graduate and start your life-you just need a plan. Take care and I wish you all the best in your future.
Decide what YOU want in your adult life. Is it money? Fame? A secure retirement? Travel? Then go to your local public library or online and take some aptitude tests for what interests you. Do your research on the careers that interest you. Are you willing to put in 8+ years of college study and internships or will you be better served taking a mixture of community college classes to see what areas of study fire your brain and make you happy? All of life is a trade-off and many people don't acknowledge this. Your work is not your life. You work to enhance your life whether that is through earning money, having a schedule you decide for yourself, or making a difference in the world. You get to choose. And, once you choose, guess what? You can change your mind! It is not your grandmother's era. You don't have to accept the lowest bottom rung of what life throws at you. Through your actions and diligence, you make your own path. What works for one person doesn't work for another.
What I will say is this...don't ignore the non-traditional learning opportunities. Ask a family member or friend to go to work with them one day to shadow and find out what exactly it is that they do. Get that glimpse behind the curtain at a day in the life of a beautician, accountant, landscaper, tow truck driver, or whatever other opportunities you can get. Keep a journal. Write down what you liked and didn't like about the job or day. Make note of if the person said it was a typical day or not. Then, write how you feel at the end of the day. Was the job too physical? Did shouting customers make you want to hide? Did you enjoy it? You will discover that certain things make you happier than others.
And, if you reach the end of high school and still don't have a plan-you have options. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, humanitarian aid, or join the military. Do NOT go by yourself or sign anything on your first visit. Recruiters are trained in how to make having to paint rocks daily a great job. What does this option offer you? First is time. Time to get some exposure to a real career in a safe environment where they pay you, give you the clothes you need, food and housing while you find out what having a real job is like. Second is education, take advantage of the education benefits (totally free except for books). Third is the physical training (to stay healthy, relax and clear your mind). And fourth, a trade with real certificates that you can use when you get out (if you pick a military job that translates into a civilian career). Extra benefits are full medical and dental, travel to great places in your paid thirty days of leave yearly and establishing friendships that never go away. Of course, if you like the life, yes, that can be your career. Most people don't stay for the twenty years to achieve full retirement. You do what makes the best fit for you.
Know that yes, you can wander through a community college or a local university, but it will cost. Ways to do it for free or at a reduced price-work there! Yes, most educational facilities offer free tuition to their employees. It's a two-fold benefit. Their workforce becomes better educated and you get free or reduced tuition. One thing to be aware of is to not incur debt getting your education. We are all aware of how much a degree costs these days. Try not to saddle yourself with crushing student debt or accept one of the student credit card offers you will be certain to receive. This is a predatory practice used by companies to ensure they can get you to pay exorbitant rates.
If you have done any career research, you likely know that most people change career fields many times during their working lifespan. You don't have to have all of the answers when you graduate and start your life-you just need a plan. Take care and I wish you all the best in your future.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Beauty,
Deciding on a career path can be a tricky and intricate task for young adults and students, due to a variety of factors.
To begin with, the modern world offers a multitude of career paths, each with its own set of demands, skills, and prospects. This broad spectrum of options can make it challenging for individuals to pinpoint the career that best matches their interests, abilities, and long-term ambitions.
Next, the job market is in a state of constant flux, with new sectors cropping up and others becoming outdated. Staying abreast of these shifts and comprehending the demands of the job market can be an intimidating task for students.
Additionally, personal factors such as financial limitations, family responsibilities, or location can also sway career choices. Juggling these elements with personal dreams and career objectives can further complicate the decision-making process.
Furthermore, acquiring hands-on experience through internships or part-time roles while still studying can offer valuable understanding of various careers. However, landing these opportunities can be competitive and often necessitates extensive networking and investigation.
Finally, making a well-informed career choice involves weighing various factors such as potential earnings, job growth opportunities, work-life balance, and personal satisfaction. Carrying out in-depth research on these aspects can be a lengthy process and requires access to trustworthy information sources.
To sum up, career selection is a multifaceted process that entails balancing personal aspirations with external factors like job market trends and personal circumstances. It demands thorough research and thoughtful consideration of various factors to make a well-informed decision that aligns with one's interests, abilities, and long-term objectives.
Key References Used:
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). (2021). College Navigator: Career Planning & Placement Services.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Overview by Industry Sector & Detailed Occupational Profiles.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). (n.d.). Career Services Best Practices: Helping Students Make Informed Decisions About Their Careers & Majors.
May God Bless You,
JC.
Deciding on a career path can be a tricky and intricate task for young adults and students, due to a variety of factors.
To begin with, the modern world offers a multitude of career paths, each with its own set of demands, skills, and prospects. This broad spectrum of options can make it challenging for individuals to pinpoint the career that best matches their interests, abilities, and long-term ambitions.
Next, the job market is in a state of constant flux, with new sectors cropping up and others becoming outdated. Staying abreast of these shifts and comprehending the demands of the job market can be an intimidating task for students.
Additionally, personal factors such as financial limitations, family responsibilities, or location can also sway career choices. Juggling these elements with personal dreams and career objectives can further complicate the decision-making process.
Furthermore, acquiring hands-on experience through internships or part-time roles while still studying can offer valuable understanding of various careers. However, landing these opportunities can be competitive and often necessitates extensive networking and investigation.
Finally, making a well-informed career choice involves weighing various factors such as potential earnings, job growth opportunities, work-life balance, and personal satisfaction. Carrying out in-depth research on these aspects can be a lengthy process and requires access to trustworthy information sources.
To sum up, career selection is a multifaceted process that entails balancing personal aspirations with external factors like job market trends and personal circumstances. It demands thorough research and thoughtful consideration of various factors to make a well-informed decision that aligns with one's interests, abilities, and long-term objectives.
Key References Used:
National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). (2021). College Navigator: Career Planning & Placement Services.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). (2023). Occupational Outlook Handbook: Overview by Industry Sector & Detailed Occupational Profiles.
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). (n.d.). Career Services Best Practices: Helping Students Make Informed Decisions About Their Careers & Majors.
May God Bless You,
JC.
Jasanpreet Kaur Bhatia
|| Startup Enthusiastic || Advisor || Knowledge Sharer || Writer
157
Answers
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Jasanpreet Kaur’s Answer
Hi Beauty,
It is not hard, it is our mindset and lack of knowledge or information that makes us feel so vulnerable. Other factors could be, pressure from parents or society, uncertainty about interests, fear of mistakes, changing priorities, peer influence, and financial concerns.
The solution for this is to encourage yourself to explore various career options through internships, volunteer work, and informational interviews. Book an appointment for career counselling and try to get the resources which can help you to make informed decisions. Encouraging self-reflection and goal-setting can also empower which aligns you to interests and values with potential career paths.
Feel free to drop more questions on CareerVillage or try to discuss your concerns with your parents or professionals who are the experts in the field you would like to be. It will help you to alleviate the pressure and anxiety associated with career decision-making.
I hope it helps!
It is not hard, it is our mindset and lack of knowledge or information that makes us feel so vulnerable. Other factors could be, pressure from parents or society, uncertainty about interests, fear of mistakes, changing priorities, peer influence, and financial concerns.
The solution for this is to encourage yourself to explore various career options through internships, volunteer work, and informational interviews. Book an appointment for career counselling and try to get the resources which can help you to make informed decisions. Encouraging self-reflection and goal-setting can also empower which aligns you to interests and values with potential career paths.
Feel free to drop more questions on CareerVillage or try to discuss your concerns with your parents or professionals who are the experts in the field you would like to be. It will help you to alleviate the pressure and anxiety associated with career decision-making.
I hope it helps!
Violaine Gonzalez
Senior Associate
176
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Violaine’s Answer
Hello,
Choosing a career can be challenging for several reasons:
Wide Range of Options: In today's world, there are countless career paths available, each with its own set of requirements, opportunities, and challenges. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming and make it difficult to narrow down your options.
Uncertainty about Future Trends: The job market is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, economic changes, and shifts in societal needs. It can be hard to predict which industries will thrive in the future and which ones might decline.
Personal Values and Interests: Finding a career that aligns with your values, interests, and passions can be tricky. You may have multiple interests or feel torn between pursuing a practical, financially stable career and following your heart.
Fear of Making the Wrong Choice: The fear of making a wrong decision and ending up in a career that you're unhappy with or doesn't fulfill you can create anxiety and indecision.
External Pressures: External factors such as societal expectations, family opinions, and peer influences can add pressure and make it challenging to make a decision that truly reflects your own desires and aspirations.
Lack of Experience: Many people struggle to choose a career because they haven't had enough exposure to different industries and roles. Without firsthand experience, it can be hard to know whether a particular career path is the right fit.
Complexity of Personal Development: Identifying your strengths, weaknesses, skills, and values requires introspection and self-awareness, which can take time and effort to develop.
Navigating these challenges requires patience, self-reflection, research, and sometimes seeking guidance from mentors or career counselors. Remember that choosing a career is a journey, and it's okay to explore different paths before finding the one that's right for you.
Choosing a career can be challenging for several reasons:
Wide Range of Options: In today's world, there are countless career paths available, each with its own set of requirements, opportunities, and challenges. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming and make it difficult to narrow down your options.
Uncertainty about Future Trends: The job market is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, economic changes, and shifts in societal needs. It can be hard to predict which industries will thrive in the future and which ones might decline.
Personal Values and Interests: Finding a career that aligns with your values, interests, and passions can be tricky. You may have multiple interests or feel torn between pursuing a practical, financially stable career and following your heart.
Fear of Making the Wrong Choice: The fear of making a wrong decision and ending up in a career that you're unhappy with or doesn't fulfill you can create anxiety and indecision.
External Pressures: External factors such as societal expectations, family opinions, and peer influences can add pressure and make it challenging to make a decision that truly reflects your own desires and aspirations.
Lack of Experience: Many people struggle to choose a career because they haven't had enough exposure to different industries and roles. Without firsthand experience, it can be hard to know whether a particular career path is the right fit.
Complexity of Personal Development: Identifying your strengths, weaknesses, skills, and values requires introspection and self-awareness, which can take time and effort to develop.
Navigating these challenges requires patience, self-reflection, research, and sometimes seeking guidance from mentors or career counselors. Remember that choosing a career is a journey, and it's okay to explore different paths before finding the one that's right for you.
Kaitlyn Luong
Consulting
19
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kaitlyn’s Answer
Deciding on a career path during our teenage years can be challenging, primarily because we lack full-time work experience and it's difficult to determine what we truly enjoy doing without that experience. However, life offers a wonderful journey of self-discovery. You'll have the opportunity to delve into your interests, transition between various careers, and meet amazing people along your path. That's the true beauty of life.
I would suggest taking some time for self reflection. Consider the subjects that spark your interest, the extent of education you're ready to pursue, and the lifestyle you envision for yourself. Then, take the initiative to engage in internships related to your potential career paths. Rather than stressing over making the "perfect choice", concentrate on exploring your interests and maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning.
I would suggest taking some time for self reflection. Consider the subjects that spark your interest, the extent of education you're ready to pursue, and the lifestyle you envision for yourself. Then, take the initiative to engage in internships related to your potential career paths. Rather than stressing over making the "perfect choice", concentrate on exploring your interests and maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning.