Deciding on a career is one of life’s most important decisions, but how do you know that you are making the right choice for you? There’s no doubt that decisions about your career can be confusing and difficult, particularly when the state of the economy is unstable, and competition is high. With some research and good advice, however, deciding on the right career path can be much easier.
Here are five tips to help you on your way.
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1. Follow your Interests
It’s important to focus on what you are interested in when pursuing a direction for your career. As tempting as it may be, try not to fixate on the types of jobs that pay the most and are in greatest demand.
For example, if you are interested in finance and trading, look for education and training opportunities with quality providers, such as Learn to Trade. As you complete modules and learn more about the sector, you simultaneously gain skills and knowledge that make you highly employable. You are also likely to enjoy your study because you are learning about something of personal interest.
2. Know you Skillset and Personal Qualities
Do not neglect acknowledgement of your skills and personal qualities. All people have skills and attributes that can be transferred and are valuable in vocational contexts.
To identify your skills, be aware of your responses in particular situations. You may be a person who consistently strives for perfection, or perhaps you are someone who can manage pressure and stressful situations. Of course, there are many more personal qualities to consider, and it can be insightful to ask others for their ideas of your most notable skills and characteristics.
“… Ttry not to fixate on the types of jobs that pay the most and are in greatest demand”
3. Consider Other Options
Some people know that they are not supposed to be an employee. If this sounds like you, perhaps you should think about starting your own business.
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If this idea carries appeal, decide on the kind of business you would like and commit to the acquisition of the knowledge and skills required for your ideas to come to fruition in a business. Yes, money is a real factor that determines what you ultimately can and cannot do, but start by building up your network and developing a sound business plan. Finance options are best explored when a robust plan is in place.
4. Don’t Rush
Career decisions can feel urgent, but it is perilous to hastily decide on a career path just because you are under pressure or want to escape your current job.
Taking some time to work out what you really want to do is a good idea. If you have the opportunity, taking up some part-time work or work experience in a field of interest to you will at least provide a feel of what it is like to work there. Even better, if you have the time and resources to take a complete break from work to clear and refresh you mind, this can help with making a wise decision about your career path.
5. Exercise Patience
Patience does not come naturally to everyone, but it’s important to give your career path time. There is likely to be some disruptions and obstacles along the way, but dedication to forging a career that you really want for yourself can bring great benefits.
“ … It is perilous to hastily decide on a career path just because you are under pressure or want to escape your current job”
Career path decisions are important and therefore deserve plenty of time and considered thought. Do you have any tips to share? If so, comment in the box below.
This post was supported by Learn to Trade.
Featured Photo Credit: Kris Kesiak Photography via Compfight cc