Discovering Your Path: What do you want to be when you grow up?
Navigating career advice can be challenging, mainly focusing on crucial transition points like leaving secondary school. But equally important are those "moments of inspiration" when we can reflect on what truly ignites our passion, free from pressure or external influence.
Career Dreams, Career Reality
Many young professionals in their 20s and 30s find themselves feeling trapped in the wrong job. Some feel unfulfilled, while others believe their talents are underutilized, leading to over-education for their current roles.
The ever-evolving labor market adds complexity to career decisions. Our interests, skills, and even personalities change over time, while job demands shift due to market trends and technological advancements. The pandemic-induced vacancies in specific sectors and the potential impact of automation on job displacement are prime examples to consider.
Nurturing Your Career Vision
Setting career goals becomes the foundation of a continuing personal development project – a career. Understanding your strengths, interests, and values is vital to shape your path. Initiating this process through a career quiz or envisioning your future five or ten years down the road can guide your vision.
Talking to those who know you well – family, friends, and colleagues – can provide valuable insights into your strengths and what you bring to the table.
Career planning takes time, but so does being stuck in the wrong job. Embrace the journey, after all an average of 90,000 hours spend at work over a lifetime. Why not spend that time doing something you love?