Most of us would agree that we are a product of our decisions, far more than our hopes, dreams, and goals. The further we get in life, the more we evaluate our choices from a coulda-woulda-shoulda perspective. We can often be harsh on ourselves as we reflect on our decisions, especially concerning our career. Deciding and acting on a career path is one of our most consequential series of decisions.
1. How can I balance passion and practicality when making career decisions?
2. What role do my personal values play in career decision-making?
3. How can I navigate the pressure of choosing a high-paying career versus pursuing my passions?
4. What are some practical ways to explore different career options before deciding?
5. How can I bounce back from a career setback and continue to pursue my goals?
6. Are the careers I am considering sustainable over a working lifetime?
7. What knowledge, skills, and competencies are required to perform at mastery in a chosen career, and how do I stack up?
8. What activities motivate and enable me to earn a good living?
9. Have I reconciled that career success equates with hard work, dedication, and persistence?
10. What transferable experiences and skills will I gain and be able to leverage should I pursue a new future career path?
As you contemplate these questions, don’t do so in a vacuum. Seek advice from people that work in the areas you are considering. Research career fields via the internet, talk to professionals in academia, take career-defining assessments, and of course, seek counsel from a career coach.
I’ll close with this…proceed forward with confidence, not fear. Lean into the oftentimes arduous journey of identifying and pursuing a rewarding career. Not much good comes easy. You have to believe in yourself and be resilient. Setbacks will happen, and as my mom frequently said, “a setback is a setup for a comeback.” A mistake does not make certain of your ultimate destiny. It is an inevitable and important part of the process to gain ultimate confidence, peace, and satisfaction. Once you have a clearly validated career transition plan, trust the plan and implement it aggressively. You can do this!
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