9 answers
George
Student
Garden City, GA
1
Question
Asked
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Why is it so difficult for me to find and stick to a career path that I actually like?
I'm an 18years old freshman, about 6'1 in height that quite excels at playing basketball but it's not really something I'd like to do after college. I think I have interest in programming and marketing but they are quite difficult and I find it very hard to stick to something, sadly. Pls help 🙏
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9 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear George,
Tackling the Challenge of Choosing and Committing to a Career Path
Choosing a career path that aligns with your interests and sticking to it can be tough, especially when you're young, like at 18. Here are some reasons why this might be a struggle:
Confusion: Young people often have a range of interests, making it hard to decide on a specific career. In your case, you're great at basketball but don't see it as a lifelong career, which adds to the confusion.
Fear of Commitment: Choosing a career means investing time, energy, and resources. The fear of making a mistake or feeling stuck in an unsatisfying career can make it hard to commit.
Outside Pressure: Society, family, and friends can all influence career choices. These pressures can sometimes clash with personal interests, making it hard to follow a path that brings personal satisfaction.
Skill Building: Moving from interests to the skills needed for careers like programming and marketing can be tough. These fields require ongoing learning, problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability. This can be daunting if you find it hard to stick to one thing.
Self-Discovery: It's important to try out different roles and industries through internships, volunteering, job shadowing, or informational interviews. Without this, it's hard to make an informed career choice.
Advice and Support: Mentors, career counselors, or professionals can provide helpful advice on choosing a career. Having someone experienced to guide you can help clear up doubts.
Steps to Overcome Career Path Hurdles:
Self-Reflection: Spend time thinking about your interests, values, strengths, and goals. This can help you choose a career that aligns with what's important to you.
Exploration: Try out different fields through internships, online courses, workshops, or networking events. This can help you decide if programming or marketing is right for you.
Get Help: Don't be afraid to ask for advice from career counselors, mentors, or professionals in the fields you're interested in. They can offer helpful insights based on their experience.
Goal Setting: Set short-term and long-term career goals. This can make the process less daunting.
Adopt a Growth Mindset: Understand that it's okay not to have all the answers right away. See challenges as chances to grow and learn.
By addressing these issues and taking steps towards self-discovery and exploration, you'll find it easier to choose a career path that aligns with your interests and goals.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
Forbes
Psychology Today
God Bless You,
JC.
Tackling the Challenge of Choosing and Committing to a Career Path
Choosing a career path that aligns with your interests and sticking to it can be tough, especially when you're young, like at 18. Here are some reasons why this might be a struggle:
Confusion: Young people often have a range of interests, making it hard to decide on a specific career. In your case, you're great at basketball but don't see it as a lifelong career, which adds to the confusion.
Fear of Commitment: Choosing a career means investing time, energy, and resources. The fear of making a mistake or feeling stuck in an unsatisfying career can make it hard to commit.
Outside Pressure: Society, family, and friends can all influence career choices. These pressures can sometimes clash with personal interests, making it hard to follow a path that brings personal satisfaction.
Skill Building: Moving from interests to the skills needed for careers like programming and marketing can be tough. These fields require ongoing learning, problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability. This can be daunting if you find it hard to stick to one thing.
Self-Discovery: It's important to try out different roles and industries through internships, volunteering, job shadowing, or informational interviews. Without this, it's hard to make an informed career choice.
Advice and Support: Mentors, career counselors, or professionals can provide helpful advice on choosing a career. Having someone experienced to guide you can help clear up doubts.
Steps to Overcome Career Path Hurdles:
Self-Reflection: Spend time thinking about your interests, values, strengths, and goals. This can help you choose a career that aligns with what's important to you.
Exploration: Try out different fields through internships, online courses, workshops, or networking events. This can help you decide if programming or marketing is right for you.
Get Help: Don't be afraid to ask for advice from career counselors, mentors, or professionals in the fields you're interested in. They can offer helpful insights based on their experience.
Goal Setting: Set short-term and long-term career goals. This can make the process less daunting.
Adopt a Growth Mindset: Understand that it's okay not to have all the answers right away. See challenges as chances to grow and learn.
By addressing these issues and taking steps towards self-discovery and exploration, you'll find it easier to choose a career path that aligns with your interests and goals.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
Forbes
Psychology Today
God Bless You,
JC.
Katherine Avery
Run a music studio and teach private music lessons; teach college-level religion classes
350
Answers
Spanish Fork, Utah
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Ken Coleman's book From Paycheck to Purpose can be helpful in figuring out your own niche!
Kanwal Naz
7
Answers
Lincoln, Nebraska
Updated
Kanwal’s Answer
That's a great question! I think this is something that a lot of students struggle with so you are not alone. Your concern is why is it so difficult for me to find and stick to a career path that I actually like. I personally dealt with this problem so I may be able to add to your perspective. While the reasons behind what I think may be different, it can you a angle to look at.
The reason why I had so much issue deciding what major I wanted is from the result of stigma, biases, and opinions that others have given me. I never got to see things through my lens. I always saw things through the lens of my brother or someone smarter because I thought what they said was more important. Maybe, that is how you feel. I don't know.
When I finally removed the lens of other people's words, I finally looked at what I really want and how I will achieve it. Your age, identity, or social background should not slow you down it should empower you.
Even being guided by a teacher or school's counselor can suck and be daunting. They're just there to do their job, give superficial advice, and then, go home. They are probably more worried about their lunch time then talking to you.
If you want real experience, you may want to consider job shadowing. The best jobs are ones that empower their employees, and have employees that gravitate to doing their best.
If you change your major, that's okay too! Many students change their major, but you don't want it to turn into a quarter a million deal.
Do what makes you shine.
The reason why I had so much issue deciding what major I wanted is from the result of stigma, biases, and opinions that others have given me. I never got to see things through my lens. I always saw things through the lens of my brother or someone smarter because I thought what they said was more important. Maybe, that is how you feel. I don't know.
When I finally removed the lens of other people's words, I finally looked at what I really want and how I will achieve it. Your age, identity, or social background should not slow you down it should empower you.
Even being guided by a teacher or school's counselor can suck and be daunting. They're just there to do their job, give superficial advice, and then, go home. They are probably more worried about their lunch time then talking to you.
If you want real experience, you may want to consider job shadowing. The best jobs are ones that empower their employees, and have employees that gravitate to doing their best.
If you change your major, that's okay too! Many students change their major, but you don't want it to turn into a quarter a million deal.
Do what makes you shine.
Steve Sterner
IT Management
31
Answers
Easton, Pennsylvania
Updated
Steve’s Answer
George it is a fair question, and it took me a long time to come to grips with it. What I am about to say is more perspective than advice.
Life, work and the world is ever changing and as technology increases the rate of change does as well which means that your options are always changing. My first degree is in Accounting and Specialized Management and after college I had a good career with a solid career path, but I hated what I was doing and was given some good advice and subsequently went into IT, now 2 degrees and more than 35 years later I can say that was a good choice. Although it was not perfect and often there were times that I got disillusioned and thought of doing something else or leaving my company (I have been at my current company in various roles for more than 33 years) or changing roles, I always try to factor in the chaos I know for the chaos I don't.
When you are in a bad situation or are having a particular conflict or fighting a particular problem that becomes first and foremost in your mind and your reactions are based on that. When looking at alternatives: another, career, another company, another department we tend to look at the positive aspects of the new situation because if someone is recruiting you that's all they tell you, the negative is usually hidden a little deeper and when we are in a bad place, we are looking for a better one, so we see what we want to see.
Sometimes when you are unhappy it is the right time to make a change: career path, organization, role, etc./. but make sure you are comparing your current state fairly with the new state otherwise you are trading the chaos you know for the chaos you don't know and one advantage you will usually have with the chaos you know is you have experience: You know who to trust, who to watch out for, you know the pitfalls you already encountered, etc.
Hope that helps!
Life, work and the world is ever changing and as technology increases the rate of change does as well which means that your options are always changing. My first degree is in Accounting and Specialized Management and after college I had a good career with a solid career path, but I hated what I was doing and was given some good advice and subsequently went into IT, now 2 degrees and more than 35 years later I can say that was a good choice. Although it was not perfect and often there were times that I got disillusioned and thought of doing something else or leaving my company (I have been at my current company in various roles for more than 33 years) or changing roles, I always try to factor in the chaos I know for the chaos I don't.
When you are in a bad situation or are having a particular conflict or fighting a particular problem that becomes first and foremost in your mind and your reactions are based on that. When looking at alternatives: another, career, another company, another department we tend to look at the positive aspects of the new situation because if someone is recruiting you that's all they tell you, the negative is usually hidden a little deeper and when we are in a bad place, we are looking for a better one, so we see what we want to see.
Sometimes when you are unhappy it is the right time to make a change: career path, organization, role, etc./. but make sure you are comparing your current state fairly with the new state otherwise you are trading the chaos you know for the chaos you don't know and one advantage you will usually have with the chaos you know is you have experience: You know who to trust, who to watch out for, you know the pitfalls you already encountered, etc.
Hope that helps!
Geovanni Arnel Cajucom
Registered Nurse
6
Answers
Oxnard, California
Updated
Geovanni Arnel’s Answer
Hi George,
I hope this message finds you well. Navigating the maze of career options, particularly at a young age, can be quite a challenge. I remember vividly the pressure of making decisions about my future, especially when it came time to choose a college course.
In facing this dilemma myself, I established certain guiding principles that helped steer me through the uncertainty. Firstly, I believe a fulfilling career should align with three key aspects: (1) something I'm good at, (2) something I like doing, and (3) something that can meet my financial obligations and aspirations.
Moreover, there are numerous resources available to aid in self-discovery and career exploration. I highly recommend exploring personality assessments like the Career Aptitude Test available at https://www.truity.com/test/career-personality-profiler-test. Additionally, tests such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Big Five Personality Traits, and StrengthsFinder offer comprehensive insights into one's unique characteristics and strengths, which can be invaluable in charting your career path.
I understand the weight of the decisions before you, George, and I wish you nothing but success in finding the path that resonates most deeply with who you are and what you aspire to achieve.
Warm regards,
Geo
I hope this message finds you well. Navigating the maze of career options, particularly at a young age, can be quite a challenge. I remember vividly the pressure of making decisions about my future, especially when it came time to choose a college course.
In facing this dilemma myself, I established certain guiding principles that helped steer me through the uncertainty. Firstly, I believe a fulfilling career should align with three key aspects: (1) something I'm good at, (2) something I like doing, and (3) something that can meet my financial obligations and aspirations.
Moreover, there are numerous resources available to aid in self-discovery and career exploration. I highly recommend exploring personality assessments like the Career Aptitude Test available at https://www.truity.com/test/career-personality-profiler-test. Additionally, tests such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Big Five Personality Traits, and StrengthsFinder offer comprehensive insights into one's unique characteristics and strengths, which can be invaluable in charting your career path.
I understand the weight of the decisions before you, George, and I wish you nothing but success in finding the path that resonates most deeply with who you are and what you aspire to achieve.
Warm regards,
Geo
Yuritza G Nino de Daall
Quality Assurance / Process Improvement / Project Manager
53
Answers
Flowery Branch, Georgia
Updated
Yuritza G’s Answer
Hey there! It's totally normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially at 18. You've got a lot of options ahead of you, and it's okay to explore different interests to find what truly lights you up. It sounds like you've got some great skills on the basketball court, but if it's not your passion for the long haul, that's okay too.
Programming and marketing are both awesome fields with lots of opportunities, but yeah, they can be challenging. Remember, it's okay to struggle with something new. It doesn't mean you're not cut out for it; it just means you're learning and growing. Maybe try breaking down those big goals into smaller, manageable steps. Set aside some time each day to practice coding or learn about marketing. And don't forget to give yourself credit for the progress you make along the way.
Finding the right career path takes time and patience, so be kind to yourself. It's all about discovering what makes you excited to get out of bed in the morning. Keep exploring different interests, talking to people in different fields, and seeking out opportunities to learn and grow. You'll find your way, I promise. And hey, if you ever need someone to bounce ideas off of or just vent about the process, we are here for you. You've got this!
Programming and marketing are both awesome fields with lots of opportunities, but yeah, they can be challenging. Remember, it's okay to struggle with something new. It doesn't mean you're not cut out for it; it just means you're learning and growing. Maybe try breaking down those big goals into smaller, manageable steps. Set aside some time each day to practice coding or learn about marketing. And don't forget to give yourself credit for the progress you make along the way.
Finding the right career path takes time and patience, so be kind to yourself. It's all about discovering what makes you excited to get out of bed in the morning. Keep exploring different interests, talking to people in different fields, and seeking out opportunities to learn and grow. You'll find your way, I promise. And hey, if you ever need someone to bounce ideas off of or just vent about the process, we are here for you. You've got this!
Dee Canitez
Insurance Broker
4
Answers
Providence, Rhode Island
Updated
Dee’s Answer
You are not alone!!!! My daughter worked so hard to get in and graduate from pharmacy school with a PharmD degree , after working for 2 years as a pharmacist, she decided she doesn't want to be one!!!!!! She is building now on her degree to be able to change the path.
What I would say, before you chose a path, explore well, maybe get a job in the field working for the person in "your future position"
BUT the secret is to stick to what you choose! NO MATTER what path , you will have to pay your dues and go thru growing pains!!!!
What I would say, before you chose a path, explore well, maybe get a job in the field working for the person in "your future position"
BUT the secret is to stick to what you choose! NO MATTER what path , you will have to pay your dues and go thru growing pains!!!!
Nikolaos Zormpas
Global Manager – Digital Services Offerings / Technology, Software & Services Offerings Marketing
88
Answers
Athens, Greece
Updated
Nikolaos’s Answer
Hi George! First of all please allow me to share with you that as many of the advices already mention, it's 100% normal to have these concerns. Having read all the answers the only thing I could add to this conversation is a question. What if you are closer to the answer than you think? For example what if you could write the code for a basketball game or app or provide marketing services to a basketball team or league? Maybe this would help you stay motivated and overcome any barriers. Many times we have way more options than we think... Food for thought and don't forget - even after you start driving, you have plenty of time to steer :)
Best regards,
Nikolas
Best regards,
Nikolas
Saroniel Torres
Organizational Change and Project Management
5
Answers
Downers Grove, Illinois
Updated
Saroniel’s Answer
Hi George,
First, try not to be so hard on yourself. Some folks older than you are still looking to find their passion. So, you are already on the right track—at least you are looking. I would say keep exploring. The trick, in my book, is to find the thing that brings you excitement. If marketing or programming jazzes you up, then dig in a little more. Explore a class or two that you find interesting. But always be open to new opportunities. Remember, it's not about the destination at this point in your life; it's about the journey. So, here are a couple of things for you to consider:
* Do you know what you're good at (What subjects/skills do you excel at?)
* Do you know what excites you (When you get into the topic, does it want to make you learn more?)
* Can you see yourself doing it for the rest of your life (If you were offered a job doing "that thing," would you do it for the rest of your life?
Best of luck, and hang in there
ST
First, try not to be so hard on yourself. Some folks older than you are still looking to find their passion. So, you are already on the right track—at least you are looking. I would say keep exploring. The trick, in my book, is to find the thing that brings you excitement. If marketing or programming jazzes you up, then dig in a little more. Explore a class or two that you find interesting. But always be open to new opportunities. Remember, it's not about the destination at this point in your life; it's about the journey. So, here are a couple of things for you to consider:
* Do you know what you're good at (What subjects/skills do you excel at?)
* Do you know what excites you (When you get into the topic, does it want to make you learn more?)
* Can you see yourself doing it for the rest of your life (If you were offered a job doing "that thing," would you do it for the rest of your life?
Best of luck, and hang in there
ST