3 Ways To Choose The Career That’s Right For You
Embarking on a career journey can feel like setting sail on uncharted waters—filled with endless possibilities yet accompanied by the inevitable uncertainty of where the tide might take you. Whether you’re a recent graduate, someone itching for a career change, or simply seeking a role that feels more aligned with your values, this guide is here to help.
Finding the right career isn’t just about landing a job; it’s about discovering work that resonates with your authentic self and supports the life you want to build. In this post, I’ll walk you through three transformative steps to help you figure out how to choose the career that’s right for you.
1. Assessing Your Interests and Values
At the heart of a fulfilling career lies a deep understanding of what makes you come alive. This means peeling back the layers to uncover your true interests and values. Think of this as reconnecting with the essence of who you are, beyond societal expectations or family pressures.
Discover Your Passions
Ask yourself:
What activities bring me joy?
What could I spend hours doing without feeling drained?
What fascinated me as a child?
When I reflect on my own career journey, I remember how much I loved creative writing as a child. I’d spend hours crafting stories and writing poetry, yet I buried that passion for years because I didn’t see a “real career” in it. Fast forward to now, and I’ve found ways to integrate my love for writing into everything I do—coaching newsletters, blogs like this one, and even fiction projects.
Align with Your Values
Equally important are your core values. What matters most to you in life? Is it freedom, financial security, creativity, or making an impact? Identifying these values ensures that your career aligns with the life you want to build.
For example, if work-life balance is a priority, pursuing a high-stress role that demands 60-hour work weeks might leave you feeling unfulfilled, no matter the paycheck. Clarity on your values creates a foundation for building a career that feels right, not just “successful.”
2. Assessing Your Skills and Strengths
Once you’ve uncovered your passions and values, the next step is to identify your unique skills and strengths. This is where self-awareness becomes your superpower.
Identify What You’re Good At
Ask yourself:
What skills come naturally to me?
What do people often compliment me on?
Which activities make me feel accomplished?
For some, this might mean exceptional organizational skills, public speaking, or problem-solving. For others, it could be artistic talents, technical expertise, or even the ability to connect with people on a deeper level. The key is to recognize your strengths and find ways to leverage them in your career.
Grow Your Skillset
Even if you don’t feel “ready” for a specific career, remember that skills can always be developed. Take courses, attend workshops, or seek mentorship to grow in areas where you feel less confident. Career success isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about your willingness to learn and adapt.
3. Clarify Your Goals and Explore Career Paths
Set Clear Goals
Once you know your values and strengths, it’s time to set goals that align with them. What do you want your career to provide for you—beyond just a paycheck? Is it flexibility, the opportunity to lead, or room for creativity?
Creating SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—can provide a structured roadmap for your career journey. For example:
Short-term goal: Research three industries and connect with five professionals in each within the next three months.
Long-term goal: Secure a role as a content strategist within two years.
Research and Network
Now comes the fun (and sometimes daunting) part—exploring career options. Here’s how:
Research industries: Spend time understanding various fields that align with your interests. You might be surprised by careers you didn’t know existed.
Leverage career quizzes: Tools like Myers-Briggs or StrengthsFinder can offer insights into fields that match your personality and strengths.
Network intentionally: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in roles you’re curious about. Ask questions, schedule informational interviews, and seek mentorship.
When I started my coaching journey, I leaned heavily on conversations with mentors and peers in the industry. Their insights helped me refine my vision and gave me the confidence to take the leap.
Embrace Lifelong Learning and Adaptation
Here’s a truth I’ve learned along the way: careers aren’t static. Your interests, values, and circumstances will evolve over time, and that’s okay.
Commit to Lifelong Learning
Stay curious. Whether through online courses, workshops, or degree programs, continuous learning keeps you adaptable and relevant in an ever-changing job market.
Be Open to Change
Sometimes, the path you start on won’t be the one you end up loving—and that’s not a failure; it’s growth. I never imagined I’d become a coach or a writer, but embracing change led me to a career that feels truly aligned.
Adopt a Growth Mindset
View challenges as opportunities to learn. Instead of fearing failure, embrace it as part of the journey. A growth mindset will help you navigate uncertainty with resilience and creativity.
Final Thoughts: Your Career, Your Journey
Finding the right career isn’t a one-time decision—it’s a lifelong process of self-discovery, growth, and adaptation. Whether you’re just starting out or pivoting mid-career, remember that the journey is uniquely yours.
Five years ago, if someone told me I’d be helping others build wealth, writing creative content, and running my own business, I would’ve laughed. But now, I can’t imagine doing anything else. The key? Leaning into my interests, values, and strengths—and being open to where they led me.
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