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What to do when you don't really know what you wanna do?

What to do when you don't really know what you wanna do?

career-counseling idontknow
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Chinyere’s Answer

Hey Kamauri!

First, you're not alone. Not knowing what you want to do is a lot more common than it sounds. In fact, it’s entirely okay. There is no manual for life, and finding your path requires patience, curiosity, and a little trial and error.

Start by focusing on what interests you, even the little things. Do you have a tendency to lose track of time? Something that keeps coming up in your TikTok stream or conversations? Those minor hints are important. Right now, you only need a beginning point for your plan, not a comprehensive one.

Then, experiment! Try various classes, volunteer work, side gigs, or even job shadowing. It's okay if something doesn't work out; you're learning what doesn't work out, and that's just as valuable. Along the way, speak with people in careers that seem interesting and ask them how they got there and what they love (or don't love) about their line of work.

You don't have to choose one thing forever; many people change careers multiple times in their lives. Instead of focusing on a single "perfect" job, you should think about who you want to be and the kind of life you want to lead.

And finally, be confident in your speed. No one else's journey has to resemble yours. As long as you're making progress, even if it's zigzagging, you're developing.

Best wishes!
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Xin’s Answer

HI Kamauri,
Good Day!

When you're feeling stuck or unsure about what to do next, here’s a practical step-by-step approach to help you gain clarity and move forward:
- Acknowledge the feeling: It’s okay not to have all the answers. Uncertainty is part of the process.
- Avoid pressure: Don’t force yourself to "figure it all out" immediately.
- Talk to mentors or friends: Sometimes others see strengths you overlook.
- Consider professional help: A career coach or therapist can help unpack blockers.

Do one tiny thing today: Clean your workspace, journal for 5 minutes, or take a walk to clear your head.
Remember: Not knowing is the first step to discovering something new.

Wishing you all the best!
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Melanie’s Answer

Hi Kamauri!

I totally get where you're coming from. It can feel overwhelming to decide on your future so early on. But don't worry, you're not alone. Many of us have been in your shoes, and even those who thought they had it all figured out often change paths—and that's perfectly okay. I once planned to be a teacher or an actuary, but I ended up at a phone company, and it was one of the best choices I ever made. I found a career I love at Verizon, with endless opportunities to explore different roles. Big companies like Verizon have many departments, so whether you're into leadership, training, marketing, tech, or customer service etc. there's a place for you to learn and grow.

Here are some steps you can take:

- Look for a company like Verizon that offers a variety of job roles, so you can find what you truly enjoy.
- Think about your interests. Even if you're unsure about a specific job, consider what you love doing. Are you a natural leader, teacher, or explorer? Do you love animals, enjoy styling, or have a knack for understanding others? Whatever it is, there's a job out there for you.
- Update your resume.
- Explore career counseling, either online or in person.
- Try volunteer work or an internship to gain experience and see if it sparks your interest.

It's normal to feel uncertain and not have all the answers right now. Feel free to start somewhere and use these tips to discover a fulfilling career you'll love.

Good luck! You've got this!
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Aparna’s Answer

Hi Kamauri, this is a wonderful time to explore and discover what you truly enjoy! Remember, it's okay if your interests change over time. Many people switch careers throughout their lives. Life is all about trying new things and growing.

1) Think about what hobbies and activities make you excited.
2) Join clubs and activities at school. It's a great way to meet people who share your interests. Clubs like HOSA and DECA can help you solve real-world problems and build skills.
3) Experiment with different school subjects. AP courses can give you a taste of college and might help you find a career path you love.
4) Get involved in your community. Volunteering and shadowing can give you hands-on experience in various fields like hospitality or web development. Check out VolunteerMatch for opportunities or join the National Honor Society at your school.

Stay positive and remember, it's perfectly normal not to have everything figured out yet.
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Annika’s Answer

Try as many things as possible! Take different classes, do internships, talk to people in different fields, shadow people, etc. You don’t need to have it all figured out, just keep moving and learning! :)
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DJ’s Answer

First, understand it’s normal to either not know what job or career you want to do or to question what you want to do while you’re in a job – make sure to be patient with yourself and give yourself grace.
You can’t go wrong identifying a job or career path that aligns with your individual values. You’ll hopefully find something that makes you happy, fulfilled, closer to home, have work life balance, make an impact, earn a lot of money, whatever your values are! In theory, your work will be valuable to you because it’s tailored to you. Again, it’s ok to question the job or career in the moment even if it’s aligned to your values. Hopefully, the moments of doubt or questioning pass because your confident that the career choices you’ve made are grounded in who you are, and those values are not as fleeting as the moments of doubt.
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. You can start thinking on what you have interest first.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Robert’s Answer

I would seek out people you trust that know you well and ask them what they think you should do. This can help validate some thoughts you have about yourself. They might be right, and they might be wrong. In the end you decide, but speaking to people you trust is always a good idea.
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Mahantesh’s Answer

That's a very good question!
It is the time to find yourself! Take some time just do nothing. Be calm talk to yourself.

Mahantesh recommends the following next steps:

Think about some of the moments back when you felt proud after achieving something.
Think about what you are passionate about.
Talk to your family members and friends and mentors
Be positive and open minded. You will find a way!
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Grace’s Answer

It's more common than you think to change career paths! I started in music but switched to IT in my senior year of college, even though it was unrelated to my degree.

Here are some steps you can take:
1. Talk to friends or family about what strengths or passions they notice in you.
2. Try a free online personality test or read a book like "What Color is Your Parachute" for ideas.
3. Once you have some interests, volunteer, shadow professionals, or apply for internships in those areas.
4. Don't worry if something doesn't work out! You have plenty of time and might change careers more than once. It's normal and doesn't mean you've failed.

Some volunteering or job shadowing ideas:
- Love animals? Volunteer or work part-time at a vet clinic.
- Super organized? Talk to Administrative Assistants or Project Managers.
- Curious about how things work? Explore Engineering.
- Care about people? Consider nursing, medicine, or counseling.

Remember, a college degree can help, but if you're unsure about school, try community college first. Also, trade schools offer many successful career paths. Good luck as you explore your future!

Grace recommends the following next steps:

Talk with trusted friends or family about what strengths or passions they see in you.
Take a free online personality test or read a book like "What Color is my Parachute"
Volunteer, set up job shadows, apply for internships, etc. in the areas that interest you.
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Mahantesh’s Answer

That's a great question! Now is the perfect time to discover who you are. Spend some time doing nothing and just relax. Have a conversation with yourself. Reflect on moments when you felt proud after an achievement. Consider what you're passionate about. Talk to your family, friends, and mentors. Stay positive and open-minded. You'll find your path!
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Srilatha’s Answer

If you’re not sure what you want to do yet, that’s totally okay! Try different activities like sports, art, music, or science to see what you enjoy. Ask yourself what you like doing and what feels fun or interesting. Pay attention to what you’re good at and what makes you happy, because that can help you figure things out. Remember, it’s normal to be unsure—many people don’t have all the answers right away. Look up stories of people who found their passions later to get inspired. Start with small goals related to your interests to build confidence. Most importantly, give yourself time and space to explore without pressure.
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Mohan’s Answer

Hello Kamauri - Interesting Q:) This may have crossed everyone's mind at some point in time - Just try to recollect your journey of life and understand what areas worked well and what did not work pursuing your dreams. See if you have the opportunity to re-calibrate your focus in the areas of your passion that keeps you happy. Sign up for Music, Perform Meditation, Yoga or Join some Mindfulness Programs - Make new friends. Treat yourself Nice, going to a movie or ice cream parlor. Take a Break. Rest well, Gain energy and feel fresh to continue with your goals.
Good Luck!
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Christopher’s Answer

It's a great place to be! Keep being yourself. Remember what you do for fun and what topics you enjoy talking about the most. Do more of that, ask a bunch of questions even if you think it's a silly question. Take notes on what you spend most of your time doing. Take notes on what you spend most of your time thinking about. This is a good time to try new things and take note of what you like, what you don't like, what you're naturally good at and what feels more like a struggle. Go easy on yourself! Your job is to be you. Start where you are and bit by bit in anyway, go from there, even asking a question is progress.
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Maansi’s Answer

Hey Kamauri - It is totally normal to not know what you want to do at this point in your life. I was in a similar position a few years ago and I found that the process of elimination really helped me in narrow down what route I ultimately wanted to take. That being said and as everyone has already above, take advantage of as many different classes, unique extra-curriculars, and other volunteering/internship activities you can. The more you do, the more you'll learn about yourself and your interests. Good luck!
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Leela’s Answer

This question is common for many young and even older people.

1. **Reflect on Your Journey**: Pause and review what you’ve done so far. Think about what you’ve enjoyed the most.

2. **Identify Your Interests**: Dig deep to find activities you love.

3. **Gain Experience**: Look for internships or volunteer work in areas you enjoy. Spend 3 to 6 months in these roles to see what you truly like.

4. **Find a Mentor**: Seek a mentor who cares about your growth and can offer guidance and connections.

5. **Explore Resources**: Listen to motivational podcasts like Mel Robbins for inspiration.

6. **Pursue Education**: Once you know your interests, consider enrolling in courses related to them.

Good luck! Remember to be kind to yourself.
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