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What can I do to find a career ?
Hello, I have trouble with figuring out what I want to do, I get overwhelmed by the options. Everyone always tell me don’t stress you’ll figure it out but I’m in 12th grade things are getting serious and I’m feeling behind..
I need to find what I want to do asap but no matter how much research I do it’s so hard!
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7 answers
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Cassie’s Answer
Hey Ashle,
First of all, all those people are right. You don't need to know what you want to do by any specific point in your life. These days people change careers constantly. I've been in the workforce for longer than I care to admit, and I'm always changing what I want to do. It's totally ok. Here are a few things to consider though when you're thinking about your career path:
1. What brings you joy? Think big picture here. Do you like helping people? Do you love being in nature? Do you crave puzzles and problem solving? whatever it is that you seek out and want to spend your time and energy on, write it down.
2. What are you good at? Is math your thing? Are you the planner in a group project? Are you artistic? Write down all the things you are good at doing.
3. Do you live to work, or work to live? Some people are perfectly happy going to a job they aren't passionate about so that they make a big paycheck and go about their lives outside of work, while others want to go to a job they love everyday even if it means making less money. That doesn't mean you can't have both (that's ideal!) but it might be time for some self-reflection to see which you would prefer, if you had to choose.
4. Job availability. Some fields are really tough to get into because there just aren't a lot of job openings, or you may need to move across the country to find openings. Others are more readily available. Some will require advanced degrees (doctors, social workers, leadership positions, engineers, etc.). Do you want to get into the field right out of undergrad, or are you ok with getting a graduate degree or two first?
After you consider all of these things, you'll have an idea of what it is you're looking for. Once you have something like, I'm good at math and project management, I enjoy helping people and I want to make a lot of money, then you can search for "high-paying math jobs" or "Data Management jobs". Look for posting and read job descriptions of what you find. This will help you get a better picture of what that job looks like and requires. Another option is to look for schools that offer widely transferrable skill degrees instead of specialized ones, so that you can fit into a wide variety of job descriptions. I also recommend talking with your school guidance counselor. They're specialized in helping students like you explore career path options.
I hope this helps and best of luck! Remember: changing careers is normal, so you're choosing something for now, not forever.
First of all, all those people are right. You don't need to know what you want to do by any specific point in your life. These days people change careers constantly. I've been in the workforce for longer than I care to admit, and I'm always changing what I want to do. It's totally ok. Here are a few things to consider though when you're thinking about your career path:
1. What brings you joy? Think big picture here. Do you like helping people? Do you love being in nature? Do you crave puzzles and problem solving? whatever it is that you seek out and want to spend your time and energy on, write it down.
2. What are you good at? Is math your thing? Are you the planner in a group project? Are you artistic? Write down all the things you are good at doing.
3. Do you live to work, or work to live? Some people are perfectly happy going to a job they aren't passionate about so that they make a big paycheck and go about their lives outside of work, while others want to go to a job they love everyday even if it means making less money. That doesn't mean you can't have both (that's ideal!) but it might be time for some self-reflection to see which you would prefer, if you had to choose.
4. Job availability. Some fields are really tough to get into because there just aren't a lot of job openings, or you may need to move across the country to find openings. Others are more readily available. Some will require advanced degrees (doctors, social workers, leadership positions, engineers, etc.). Do you want to get into the field right out of undergrad, or are you ok with getting a graduate degree or two first?
After you consider all of these things, you'll have an idea of what it is you're looking for. Once you have something like, I'm good at math and project management, I enjoy helping people and I want to make a lot of money, then you can search for "high-paying math jobs" or "Data Management jobs". Look for posting and read job descriptions of what you find. This will help you get a better picture of what that job looks like and requires. Another option is to look for schools that offer widely transferrable skill degrees instead of specialized ones, so that you can fit into a wide variety of job descriptions. I also recommend talking with your school guidance counselor. They're specialized in helping students like you explore career path options.
I hope this helps and best of luck! Remember: changing careers is normal, so you're choosing something for now, not forever.
Updated
Olia’s Answer
For me? I would suggest you to find first of all your strengths. In which sectors are you really good? Secondly what attracts you more? and thirdly can you find a combination between your abilities and market wants? Last but not least remember that only you know what you really like to do with your life, because of the fact that everyone is different personality with different needs. Additionally as I have noticed market needs change time to time and really few sectors have remained to be most "famous" from employers. You can always to a vocational orientation test in order to realise better yourself. So have a look also in that.... I hope I was helpful to you.
Updated
Steven’s Answer
Ashle,
All great answers.
Try to enjoy the process.
You get to sample so many different options without any real pre-conceived ideas.
That being said, what do you like to read? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Allow those to be your guide, loosely, to narrow down the universe of careers. When you get the fields themselves narrowed down you can speak with in those fields for more info as to what each of those are like.
All great answers.
Try to enjoy the process.
You get to sample so many different options without any real pre-conceived ideas.
That being said, what do you like to read? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Allow those to be your guide, loosely, to narrow down the universe of careers. When you get the fields themselves narrowed down you can speak with in those fields for more info as to what each of those are like.
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Ashle,
thanks for your question.
It is a genuine one.
The prior answers are amazing and it is worth to check them.
To complement the assessment part that Rebecca and James have mentioned, there are dairies/day-to-day shared by the different professionals across industries in text, audio and video in the internet. It is worth to check these resources as you will have the perspective of someone doing the hands on job. The great thing about this approach, it does not cost you money to have these points of view that will help you to understand the likes and dislikes about the jobs and help you to narrow down what you aspire and want to do.
Be curious and be positive because you are in a great path towards your own discovery and your development.
Thomas
thanks for your question.
It is a genuine one.
The prior answers are amazing and it is worth to check them.
To complement the assessment part that Rebecca and James have mentioned, there are dairies/day-to-day shared by the different professionals across industries in text, audio and video in the internet. It is worth to check these resources as you will have the perspective of someone doing the hands on job. The great thing about this approach, it does not cost you money to have these points of view that will help you to understand the likes and dislikes about the jobs and help you to narrow down what you aspire and want to do.
Be curious and be positive because you are in a great path towards your own discovery and your development.
Thomas
Updated
Steven’s Answer
Check with the career counseling office in your school. They can give you an aptitude test to help you find your strengths and interests.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Ashle,
Finding a Career Path: Steps to Help You Decide
Finding the right career path can indeed be overwhelming, especially when faced with numerous options and the pressure to make a decision. Here are some steps that can help you navigate through this process:
1. Self-Assessment: Start by assessing your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Understanding yourself better can help you identify potential career paths that align with who you are.
2. Explore Different Options: Research various industries, job roles, and career paths to get a better understanding of what is out there. Consider internships, job shadowing, or informational interviews to gain firsthand experience.
3. Seek Guidance: Talk to career counselors, mentors, teachers, or professionals in fields that interest you. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their experiences.
4. Education and Training: Consider what level of education or training is required for your desired career path. This may influence your decisions regarding college majors or vocational programs.
5. Set Goals: Establish short-term and long-term goals related to your career aspirations. Having clear objectives can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.
6. Gain Experience: Take advantage of opportunities to gain relevant experience through part-time jobs, volunteering, extracurricular activities, or projects that showcase your skills.
7. Evaluate Your Options: Narrow down your choices based on factors such as job outlook, salary potential, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment. Consider creating a pros and cons list for each option.
8. Make a Decision: While it’s important to weigh your options carefully, remember that no decision is set in stone. It’s okay to start somewhere and pivot along the way as you learn more about yourself and different industries.
9. Stay Flexible: Keep an open mind and be willing to adapt to changes in the job market or new opportunities that may arise. Continuous learning and growth are essential for long-term career success.
Remember that finding the right career path is a journey that involves self-discovery, exploration, and continuous learning. Don’t be afraid to seek support from others and take calculated risks as you navigate through this process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers provides expert advice on various aspects of career development, including tips on choosing a career path, exploring different options, setting goals, and making informed decisions.
CareerOneStop: CareerOneStop is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor and offers comprehensive resources for career exploration and planning. It provides tools for self-assessment, industry research, educational requirements, job outlooks, and more.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed’s Career Guide offers insights into different industries, job roles, skill development strategies, resume building tips, interview preparation advice, and other resources aimed at helping individuals make informed career choices.
God Bless You,
JC.
Finding a Career Path: Steps to Help You Decide
Finding the right career path can indeed be overwhelming, especially when faced with numerous options and the pressure to make a decision. Here are some steps that can help you navigate through this process:
1. Self-Assessment: Start by assessing your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Understanding yourself better can help you identify potential career paths that align with who you are.
2. Explore Different Options: Research various industries, job roles, and career paths to get a better understanding of what is out there. Consider internships, job shadowing, or informational interviews to gain firsthand experience.
3. Seek Guidance: Talk to career counselors, mentors, teachers, or professionals in fields that interest you. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their experiences.
4. Education and Training: Consider what level of education or training is required for your desired career path. This may influence your decisions regarding college majors or vocational programs.
5. Set Goals: Establish short-term and long-term goals related to your career aspirations. Having clear objectives can help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.
6. Gain Experience: Take advantage of opportunities to gain relevant experience through part-time jobs, volunteering, extracurricular activities, or projects that showcase your skills.
7. Evaluate Your Options: Narrow down your choices based on factors such as job outlook, salary potential, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment. Consider creating a pros and cons list for each option.
8. Make a Decision: While it’s important to weigh your options carefully, remember that no decision is set in stone. It’s okay to start somewhere and pivot along the way as you learn more about yourself and different industries.
9. Stay Flexible: Keep an open mind and be willing to adapt to changes in the job market or new opportunities that may arise. Continuous learning and growth are essential for long-term career success.
Remember that finding the right career path is a journey that involves self-discovery, exploration, and continuous learning. Don’t be afraid to seek support from others and take calculated risks as you navigate through this process.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers provides expert advice on various aspects of career development, including tips on choosing a career path, exploring different options, setting goals, and making informed decisions.
CareerOneStop: CareerOneStop is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor and offers comprehensive resources for career exploration and planning. It provides tools for self-assessment, industry research, educational requirements, job outlooks, and more.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed’s Career Guide offers insights into different industries, job roles, skill development strategies, resume building tips, interview preparation advice, and other resources aimed at helping individuals make informed career choices.
God Bless You,
JC.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you have to find out what career you have interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify related careers
E.g. 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 an accountant, banker, engineer, 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 counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify related careers
E.g. 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 an accountant, banker, engineer, 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 counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!