How to Choose the Right Career

Sometimes choosing the right career seems like an impossible task. Choosing a career involves self-reflection and exploration, and the process can seem like a job in itself. However, considering more than half of Americans are unsatisfied with their jobs, according to Forbes, it’s clearly important to take the time and effort to find an occupation you truly enjoy.

Below I’ll share five actionable ways to find the right profession.

Do Some Self-Reflection

Think about your desires and goals. Ask yourself questions like: “Where do I want to be in ten years?” “Do I want to be stuck behind a desk all day, or would I rather travel?” “What do I look for in a career?”

Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Make a list of what you are and aren’t good at. Nothing is too small or insignificant for either category. Strengths can be anything from skills you possess to positive personality traits. Conversely, weaknesses may involve skills you lack and personality flaws.

Take Your Personality into Account

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Do you prefer interacting through a screen or in person? These are important questions to ask yourself. According to Psychology Today, people who take jobs aligned with their personalities are happier and more productive than those who don’t.

If you’re having a hard time defining your personality, you can take the Myers-Briggs test online. The test will help you determine your personality type and find the right career. However, keep in mind the test is not scientific. You can use it as a guide, but it shouldn’t be the sole deciding factor in choosing a career to fit your personality. Every individual is unique, and no one’s personality perfectly fits a “type.” Some psychologists caution against letting a personality test put a definitive and final label on you.

Identify Your Loves

When you do what you love, you’re bound to be happy. Find what you’re passionate about and see if a career opportunity suits your specific interests.

Explore Learning Opportunities

Before you choose a career, find internships and volunteer opportunities in your field of interest. Taking a class is vastly different than working in a career. For instance, I loved the idea of journalism when I was in college. I decided it sound like a good career path for me, and I enjoyed learning about it from experienced experts in the field. But when I volunteered for my school newspaper, I discovered journalism clashed with my introverted personality. If I hadn’t experienced journalism firsthand, I might have wasted time and money pursuing a major and career path that didn’t suit me.

If you’re having trouble choosing a career, contact the Career Services Station. Book a call with us at http://meetme.so/RobertBraathe or send your resume for a courtesy review and price quote to ContactUs@CareerServiceStation.com

Citations:
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2018/02/22/three-reasons-youre-stagnating-and-how-to-deal-with-it/?sh=782470f45576
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-to-choose-a-career
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201806/does-your-personality-determine-your-career
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/quantum-leaps/202005/dont-let-your-children-take-the-myers-brigg