7 answers
Naomi
Student
1
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Asked
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why is it hard to find my career?
how can ifind my career
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6 answers
Stephanie Han
Senior Program Manager
12
Answers
Mountain View, California
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi Naomi,
You are definitely not alone in feeling like this! Like how can you possibly know what you want to do for the rest of your life at such a young age? Well, the good news is that you don't! There truly is no one answer in how to approach this so I will just share with you my career journey, and how I made my decisions, and hopefully that helps a bit.
I majored in accounting and I chose it the following way: 1) Eliminated every major that I was NOT interested in, 2) Looked at what subjects I was good at (math), 3) Thought about what would help me have the most options in the future, 4) Financial stability. I didn't love accounting, but I didn't hate it. And thus I chose to major in accounting.
Fast forward, after 4 years of being an accountant, I knew that I could not do this for the rest of my life but I didn't know what I wanted to switch to. So I started taking random tests online to see what career path suited my personality and interests, and I started doing informational interviews with many different people to hear about what they do and if I could see myself doing it. After doing accounting for 12 years, I made a career change to become a program manager on the DEI/HR team. And all the skills I built up in my prior job as an accountant helped me to excel in this new role. And I have been doing it for 4 years now and loving it.
So long story short, you don't have to be too anxious about what career you choose now because it can evolve over time, and most people end up changing what they do over time. The most important thing is to continue to be open to learning (you are never done learning!) and willing to put your best foot forward in anything that you do.
You are definitely not alone in feeling like this! Like how can you possibly know what you want to do for the rest of your life at such a young age? Well, the good news is that you don't! There truly is no one answer in how to approach this so I will just share with you my career journey, and how I made my decisions, and hopefully that helps a bit.
I majored in accounting and I chose it the following way: 1) Eliminated every major that I was NOT interested in, 2) Looked at what subjects I was good at (math), 3) Thought about what would help me have the most options in the future, 4) Financial stability. I didn't love accounting, but I didn't hate it. And thus I chose to major in accounting.
Fast forward, after 4 years of being an accountant, I knew that I could not do this for the rest of my life but I didn't know what I wanted to switch to. So I started taking random tests online to see what career path suited my personality and interests, and I started doing informational interviews with many different people to hear about what they do and if I could see myself doing it. After doing accounting for 12 years, I made a career change to become a program manager on the DEI/HR team. And all the skills I built up in my prior job as an accountant helped me to excel in this new role. And I have been doing it for 4 years now and loving it.
So long story short, you don't have to be too anxious about what career you choose now because it can evolve over time, and most people end up changing what they do over time. The most important thing is to continue to be open to learning (you are never done learning!) and willing to put your best foot forward in anything that you do.
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
617
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Naomi,
Choosing the right career can feel like a big decision, and it's natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. It’s a process that involves learning more about yourself, exploring different options, and figuring out what truly fits you. Here are a few reasons why it can feel challenging and some steps that might help make it easier:
Why It Can Feel Hard to Choose a Career
1. So Many Options: With so many career paths out there, especially in new fields like tech and digital industries, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
2. Finding Your Strengths and Interests: Sometimes, we don’t really know what we’re good at or what we enjoy until we try different things.
3. Pressure from Outside: Family expectations, societal norms, or financial worries can all add extra pressure and make it hard to focus on what "you" really want.
4. Fear of Getting It Wrong: Many people worry about “wasting time” or making the wrong choice, which can hold them back from exploring freely.
5. Evolving Interests: Our interests and strengths can change over time. What you liked a few years ago might not feel right now—and that’s okay!
Steps to Help You Find Your Path
1. Take a Self-Assessment: Reflect on your strengths, values, and interests. What subjects or activities make you feel genuinely happy and fulfilled?
- Helpful tools: Online career quizzes, personality tests (like Myers-Briggs or the Holland Code), or just writing down your favorite activities.
2. Research Different Careers: Look into jobs related to things you enjoy. Find out what a typical day looks like, what skills are needed, and where each path could lead.
- Helpful tools: Career sites like O*NET or LinkedIn’s career explorer.
3. Talk to People Working in Fields You’re Interested In: Conversations with people who are already in the field can be incredibly insightful. Ask them what they like, what’s challenging, and any advice they’d give.
- How to try it: Reach out on LinkedIn, attend networking events, or join online forums.
4. Try Internships or Part-Time Work: Whenever possible, get hands-on experience in fields that interest you. Internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs let you try out a role before committing fully.
5. Think About Your Long-Term Goals: What’s most important to you? Is it helping others, financial stability, creativity, or independence? Understanding your priorities can guide you toward a career that feels right.
6. Stay Open to Change: Remember, it’s okay if your career path shifts over time. Many people change careers as they learn more about themselves and their interests.
Finding a career that fits you well takes time, so be patient with yourself and permit yourself to explore. With a bit of persistence and openness, you’ll find a path that aligns with your goals and values.
Best wishes!
Choosing the right career can feel like a big decision, and it's natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. It’s a process that involves learning more about yourself, exploring different options, and figuring out what truly fits you. Here are a few reasons why it can feel challenging and some steps that might help make it easier:
Why It Can Feel Hard to Choose a Career
1. So Many Options: With so many career paths out there, especially in new fields like tech and digital industries, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
2. Finding Your Strengths and Interests: Sometimes, we don’t really know what we’re good at or what we enjoy until we try different things.
3. Pressure from Outside: Family expectations, societal norms, or financial worries can all add extra pressure and make it hard to focus on what "you" really want.
4. Fear of Getting It Wrong: Many people worry about “wasting time” or making the wrong choice, which can hold them back from exploring freely.
5. Evolving Interests: Our interests and strengths can change over time. What you liked a few years ago might not feel right now—and that’s okay!
Steps to Help You Find Your Path
1. Take a Self-Assessment: Reflect on your strengths, values, and interests. What subjects or activities make you feel genuinely happy and fulfilled?
- Helpful tools: Online career quizzes, personality tests (like Myers-Briggs or the Holland Code), or just writing down your favorite activities.
2. Research Different Careers: Look into jobs related to things you enjoy. Find out what a typical day looks like, what skills are needed, and where each path could lead.
- Helpful tools: Career sites like O*NET or LinkedIn’s career explorer.
3. Talk to People Working in Fields You’re Interested In: Conversations with people who are already in the field can be incredibly insightful. Ask them what they like, what’s challenging, and any advice they’d give.
- How to try it: Reach out on LinkedIn, attend networking events, or join online forums.
4. Try Internships or Part-Time Work: Whenever possible, get hands-on experience in fields that interest you. Internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs let you try out a role before committing fully.
5. Think About Your Long-Term Goals: What’s most important to you? Is it helping others, financial stability, creativity, or independence? Understanding your priorities can guide you toward a career that feels right.
6. Stay Open to Change: Remember, it’s okay if your career path shifts over time. Many people change careers as they learn more about themselves and their interests.
Finding a career that fits you well takes time, so be patient with yourself and permit yourself to explore. With a bit of persistence and openness, you’ll find a path that aligns with your goals and values.
Best wishes!
Griselda Hall
Executive Director
11
Answers
Olympia, Washington
Updated
Griselda’s Answer
There are many careers to choose as you discover your talents and passions. It can be difficult to decide. As you gain more knowledge and experiences, practice the ikigai technique to narrow down a focus. This will change from time to time since we all grow, develop new skill, and discover new interest and passions. Here is the basic of Ikigai:
1. Identify What You Love (Your Passion): Reflect on activities, topics, and skills that naturally energize and excite you. Ask yourself: What would I do even if I wasn’t paid for it? What brings me joy and satisfaction? Write down your hobbies, interests, and moments when you’ve felt truly happy and engaged.
2. Determine What You Are Good At (Your Vocation): Identify your strengths, skills, and talents. Think about areas where you naturally excel or where others seek your help. Consider both professional skills and personal strengths, like creativity, empathy, or leadership.
3. Recognize What the World Needs (Your Mission): Think about issues, causes, or needs in society that matter to you. Ask yourself: How can I make a positive impact on others? What problems would I like to solve? List areas where you feel you can contribute, whether by helping others, improving communities, or advancing a field.
4. Consider What You Can Be Paid For (Your Profession): Reflect on activities and skills for which people would pay you.
Think about how you might turn your passions and skills into a source of income.
Ask: Are there jobs, freelance work, or business opportunities where I can apply my skills and interests?
5. Find the Overlapping Area (Your Ikigai): Combine insights from each area to identify intersections. Look for elements that connect across categories, like something you love that is also needed by the world and can be paid for.
Your ikigai often exists at the intersection of all four areas, representing the balance between passion, vocation, mission, and profession.
6. Take Small Steps Toward Your Ikigai: Start with actionable goals aligned with your ikigai and incorporate them into your daily life.Test out ideas and activities that resonate with your ikigai to see if they bring fulfillment. Over time, you’ll refine your understanding and adjust as you discover what truly aligns with your purpose.
1. Identify What You Love (Your Passion): Reflect on activities, topics, and skills that naturally energize and excite you. Ask yourself: What would I do even if I wasn’t paid for it? What brings me joy and satisfaction? Write down your hobbies, interests, and moments when you’ve felt truly happy and engaged.
2. Determine What You Are Good At (Your Vocation): Identify your strengths, skills, and talents. Think about areas where you naturally excel or where others seek your help. Consider both professional skills and personal strengths, like creativity, empathy, or leadership.
3. Recognize What the World Needs (Your Mission): Think about issues, causes, or needs in society that matter to you. Ask yourself: How can I make a positive impact on others? What problems would I like to solve? List areas where you feel you can contribute, whether by helping others, improving communities, or advancing a field.
4. Consider What You Can Be Paid For (Your Profession): Reflect on activities and skills for which people would pay you.
Think about how you might turn your passions and skills into a source of income.
Ask: Are there jobs, freelance work, or business opportunities where I can apply my skills and interests?
5. Find the Overlapping Area (Your Ikigai): Combine insights from each area to identify intersections. Look for elements that connect across categories, like something you love that is also needed by the world and can be paid for.
Your ikigai often exists at the intersection of all four areas, representing the balance between passion, vocation, mission, and profession.
6. Take Small Steps Toward Your Ikigai: Start with actionable goals aligned with your ikigai and incorporate them into your daily life.Test out ideas and activities that resonate with your ikigai to see if they bring fulfillment. Over time, you’ll refine your understanding and adjust as you discover what truly aligns with your purpose.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1860
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Actually, it is not so difficult. You just find the careers you 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 have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, 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 colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you,!
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 have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, 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 colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you,!
Justin Shapiro
Accounting | Finance | Financial Systems | Non-Profit Volunteer
76
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Justin’s Answer
Hi Naomi,
Finding the right career path can be difficult for several reasons:
1. Variety of Choices
There are so many career options available today, which can make it overwhelming to narrow down your interests. The vast number of possibilities can lead to uncertainty about which path is the best fit.
2. Evolving Interests
Your interests and passions can change over time, which adds complexity to career planning. What you enjoy now may not be what you enjoy in the future, making it hard to commit to one career.
3. Balancing Passion and Practicality
People often struggle to balance their passions with practical considerations like salary, job security, and work-life balance. It can be tough to find a job that you love and that also meets your needs for income and stability.
4. Lack of Experience or Exposure
It’s common to feel uncertain if you haven’t had enough exposure to different industries or job roles. Without hands-on experience or knowledge of what certain careers entail, it’s hard to make an informed decision.
5. Pressure and Expectations
Expectations from family, society, or even your own high standards can create pressure to choose a career that aligns with what others think is best, rather than what genuinely suits you.
6. Fear of Making the Wrong Choice
The idea that choosing a career is a lifelong decision can lead to anxiety. Many people fear getting stuck in a job that doesn't fulfill them or worrying that switching careers later will be too difficult.
7. Unclear Strengths and Weaknesses
Sometimes, it’s hard to identify what your true strengths, weaknesses, and interests are. Self-discovery can take time, and without clarity, choosing a career path becomes challenging.
8. Need for Flexibility
Some people, like you, want roles that avoid routine, offer flexibility, and keep things interesting. Finding jobs that meet those needs and have long-term growth prospects can be a more complex search.
Tips to Navigate This Process:
Explore various experiences: Internships, volunteer roles, or job shadowing can give you a feel for different fields.
Talk to professionals: Networking and informational interviews can provide insights into careers you're considering.
Reflect on your values and lifestyle preferences: Understanding what you want out of your career and life can guide your decisions.
Consider a career counselor or mentor: They can offer guidance, assessments, and support in finding a suitable career path.
It's normal to feel unsure, and many people go through multiple roles or career changes before finding their fit. Your career journey is unique and evolving, so try to be patient and open-minded as you explore your options.
Finding the right career path can be difficult for several reasons:
1. Variety of Choices
There are so many career options available today, which can make it overwhelming to narrow down your interests. The vast number of possibilities can lead to uncertainty about which path is the best fit.
2. Evolving Interests
Your interests and passions can change over time, which adds complexity to career planning. What you enjoy now may not be what you enjoy in the future, making it hard to commit to one career.
3. Balancing Passion and Practicality
People often struggle to balance their passions with practical considerations like salary, job security, and work-life balance. It can be tough to find a job that you love and that also meets your needs for income and stability.
4. Lack of Experience or Exposure
It’s common to feel uncertain if you haven’t had enough exposure to different industries or job roles. Without hands-on experience or knowledge of what certain careers entail, it’s hard to make an informed decision.
5. Pressure and Expectations
Expectations from family, society, or even your own high standards can create pressure to choose a career that aligns with what others think is best, rather than what genuinely suits you.
6. Fear of Making the Wrong Choice
The idea that choosing a career is a lifelong decision can lead to anxiety. Many people fear getting stuck in a job that doesn't fulfill them or worrying that switching careers later will be too difficult.
7. Unclear Strengths and Weaknesses
Sometimes, it’s hard to identify what your true strengths, weaknesses, and interests are. Self-discovery can take time, and without clarity, choosing a career path becomes challenging.
8. Need for Flexibility
Some people, like you, want roles that avoid routine, offer flexibility, and keep things interesting. Finding jobs that meet those needs and have long-term growth prospects can be a more complex search.
Tips to Navigate This Process:
Explore various experiences: Internships, volunteer roles, or job shadowing can give you a feel for different fields.
Talk to professionals: Networking and informational interviews can provide insights into careers you're considering.
Reflect on your values and lifestyle preferences: Understanding what you want out of your career and life can guide your decisions.
Consider a career counselor or mentor: They can offer guidance, assessments, and support in finding a suitable career path.
It's normal to feel unsure, and many people go through multiple roles or career changes before finding their fit. Your career journey is unique and evolving, so try to be patient and open-minded as you explore your options.
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
85
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Naomi, trust you are fine 😊
I'm so glad you reached out! Finding the right career path can be challenging, but don't worry, you're not alone.
It's normal to feel uncertain or overwhelmed with the numerous options available. Some reasons why it might be hard to find your career are because of 👇🏽👇🏽
1. Lack of self-awareness: Understanding your strengths, passions, and values is crucial.
2. Limited exposure: You might not have explored various fields or industries.
3. Pressure from others: Family, friends, or societal expectations can influence your choices.
4. Fear of making the wrong choice: Anxiety about committing to a particular path.
Let's explore some steps to help you discover your ideal career.
Firstly, You Can Reflect on👇🏽
🤔Your values: What matters most to you? (e.g., creativity, helping others, innovation)
🤔Interests: What activities do you enjoy? (e.g., writing, problem-solving, designing)
🤔Strengths: What are your natural talents? (e.g., communication, leadership, analysis)
🤔Personality: What type of work environment suits you? (e.g., team-based, independent, fast-paced)
Secondly, Explore the following👇🏽
🤹Research careers: Look into job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth opportunities.
🤹Networking: Connect with professionals in industries that interest you.
🤹Job shadowing or internships: Gain hands-on experience.
🤹Career assessments: Utilize tools like Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Holland Occupational Themes.
Thirdly, Take action💪🏽👇🏽
🏩Create a list of potential careers aligning with your reflections.
🏩Set achievable goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.
🏩Seek guidance: Consult with a career counselor or mentor.
🏩Be patient: Finding the right fit takes time.
Always remember💭💭💭
Your career journey is unique, and it's okay to pivot or adjust along the way. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and trust your instincts.
Stay in touch here in Career Village, you will be helped to navigate your way through. Also, feel free to ask more questions.
You got this💪🏽💪🏽
I'm so glad you reached out! Finding the right career path can be challenging, but don't worry, you're not alone.
It's normal to feel uncertain or overwhelmed with the numerous options available. Some reasons why it might be hard to find your career are because of 👇🏽👇🏽
1. Lack of self-awareness: Understanding your strengths, passions, and values is crucial.
2. Limited exposure: You might not have explored various fields or industries.
3. Pressure from others: Family, friends, or societal expectations can influence your choices.
4. Fear of making the wrong choice: Anxiety about committing to a particular path.
Let's explore some steps to help you discover your ideal career.
Firstly, You Can Reflect on👇🏽
🤔Your values: What matters most to you? (e.g., creativity, helping others, innovation)
🤔Interests: What activities do you enjoy? (e.g., writing, problem-solving, designing)
🤔Strengths: What are your natural talents? (e.g., communication, leadership, analysis)
🤔Personality: What type of work environment suits you? (e.g., team-based, independent, fast-paced)
Secondly, Explore the following👇🏽
🤹Research careers: Look into job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth opportunities.
🤹Networking: Connect with professionals in industries that interest you.
🤹Job shadowing or internships: Gain hands-on experience.
🤹Career assessments: Utilize tools like Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Holland Occupational Themes.
Thirdly, Take action💪🏽👇🏽
🏩Create a list of potential careers aligning with your reflections.
🏩Set achievable goals: Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.
🏩Seek guidance: Consult with a career counselor or mentor.
🏩Be patient: Finding the right fit takes time.
Always remember💭💭💭
Your career journey is unique, and it's okay to pivot or adjust along the way. Keep an open mind, stay curious, and trust your instincts.
Stay in touch here in Career Village, you will be helped to navigate your way through. Also, feel free to ask more questions.
You got this💪🏽💪🏽