If you have no idea what you want to do with your life, you shouldn’t feel pressured into deciding right away. Plenty of successful people have only found their true calling later in life. For example, JK Rowling was struggling to make ends meet until she finally shot to success in her thirties when she wrote the first Harry Potter book. There is still time for you to figure out your trajectory.
But although you don’t need to panic, it will benefit you to figure things out sooner rather than later. Otherwise you might spend a large proportion of your adult life in a job that doesn’t bring you meaning and satisfaction. When you’re young, there are no limits to your options. But with every year that passes and each decision you make, more and more possibilities become closed off to you.
To help you make the most of life and find your true calling, here are some tips to help you choose your career path.
1. Follow your heart
What is the thing that brings you the most happiness in life? Perhaps you’re a natural athlete who can run long distances or play football better than anyone you know. Even if you have no desire to be a professional sportsperson, there are plenty of ways to work in the sports industry, for example as a journalist, trainer, or commentator.
Or maybe what brings you joy is adventure – traveling all over the world, meeting new people and having unique experiences. Perhaps you could pursue a career as a travel writer, mountain guide, or pilot.
Discover what it is that makes you fulfilled and find a way to make it your career. It doesn’t matter where you want to be plumber, a lawyer, or a senior care consultant. This is a far better option than slaving away for years in an office job you don’t care about.
2. Don’t chase the money
Of course we all need money to survive. It is the way you pay the bills and put food on the table. But it is not everything. You only need to strive for a certain baseline of financial security and comfort. So don’t pick a career based on the salary. Plenty of people spend their twenties and thirties in high-paid jobs that make them stressed and miserable, before realizing they are unhappy and changing career paths to become teachers or start up their own café by the sea. Cut out the first step and find your happiness right away. Work out your ideal balance between financial security and happiness, and use that as your guide.
3. Seek advice from your peers
A problem shared is a problem halved. If you find the conundrum of your future keeps you up at night, why not turn to your loved ones for help? Your friends, family, or partner will be a great sounding board for your concerns and may provide some valuable advice. Remember, your parents and teachers may have been in a similar situation so don’t feel ashamed to ask for their help.
Above all, take your time and don’t rush into things. Good luck on your journey!
What other tips do you have in choosing your career path? Let me know in the comments below!
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