When asked to choose a career path in college, we often get confused. At that point, we feel confused because of the advice we get from other people.
Some say that we should choose a path that makes us happy and keeps us happy all the time, while some would say that we should choose a path that gets us money. However, we want happiness (and money) to survive.
So how do you resolve your internal conflicts and choose a career path that is best for you? Here are a few tips:
List down your hobbies
Considering your hobbies is important. So, list them down and also note the reason behind it. This will help you know whether you are actually interested in it or you just like it. If you just like it, then it should not be your career option.
Passion is important if you want to pursue the same as your career. For example, if you play tennis every week in a local club, you cannot say that it is something you want to take up as your career. Playing tennis professionally is different from playing it recreationally. So, before shortlisting your hobby, be sure that you are passionate about it and it is not just on your “like” list.
Career resource center
As a college student, you might have seen one on your college campus. However, if you are not a student, you may still be able to gain access to one of these centers at your local college.
Career counselor
In most cases, it is suggested that one should speak to a career counselor to resolve their doubts. A career counselor is one who can guide you to choose a path that should be good for you. In fact, a career counselor may even guide you with career options you had no idea about.
Note: A career counselor may even suggest you to take a test to help you know your areas of interest. Tests like Myers-Briggs Type Indicator are popular and can be taken online. However, before opting for such tests, check whether they are reliable or not.
Ask professionals
If you know someone who shares the same field of interest and has been in the same field for a couple of years, ask them about their experiences and look forward for suggestions that should help you understand whether you are moving in the right direction or not.
If you do not personally know someone who is in the same field, call local businesses and ask them whether they are interested in a brief phone interview. In most of the cases, you will notice people are willing to spare a couple of minutes for those who are willing to listen.
Internship
If nothing helps, this is the best option for you. Opt for internship opportunities and enjoy the trial version of the career option you are opting for. Working as an intern, do not expect the employer to pay you thousands of dollars. However, your purpose of understanding the field personally will be keep you satisfied for the duration.
Books
There are a number of books written by experts to help you find your passion, and your dream career. Look for them and read them. This will help you know whether you are on the right path or if you have made some mistake.
Networking group
There are a number of networking groups on social networks and even in libraries that can help you understand the working of a particular field. Talk to people who share the same field of interest and know their views. Also, attend meetings that focus on career.
Face your fear
Well, while listing down your passion, don’t think whether people will like it or not. Think whether you are comfortable with it or not. This is one of the biggest issues many people face. We are often afraid to choose a career option because others don’t like it. Let me tell you that if you are not satisfied with the opportunity, you will not be able to continue with it for years to come.
Note: No illegal career option should be on your mind. Illegal is illegal, and you should not add it to your list.
Family
If you are planning to be involved with your family, make sure that you do not choose a career that required heavy traveling. So, first set your priorities and then understand whether you want to live with it or not.
Apart from this, what else should one think of while choosing a career option? If you want to share a thought, let us know about it in the comments below.