13 answers
Nevaeh
Student
Emmett, Idaho
5
Questions
Asked
196 views
What should I do if I'm stuck between two career options?
Part of me wants to become a cosmetologist, like a hairstylist or a makeup artist, but the other part wants to become a choir or music teacher. I've done research on both, and am in classes for both currently. (Online Cosmetology and Chorale).
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13 answers
Iesha Mullins
Proposal Writer
4
Answers
Delaware, Ohio
Updated
Iesha’s Answer
My advice would be to narrow down your choice and make a list of the pros and cons. I would narrow it down so that you get a good return on your investment instead of paying for two career paths. Think about more than money. Focus on time, what your day to day would look like and stability too. Speak with a folks who are in these positions to get advice too. One thing that always worked for me was meditating too and listening to my inner self. Also, vision boards help too! Best of luck.
Marco Almanza
Tech Connect Manager
8
Answers
Palmdale, California
Updated
Marco’s Answer
If you're torn between two career paths, it's okay to take your time and explore both options without feeling rushed. You're already studying cosmetology and music, so notice which one excites you more and feels rewarding, even when it's tough. Think about what you want in the future, like financial security, a good work-life balance, and the kind of workplace you prefer. Talking to professionals in both fields can give you a real sense of what their jobs are like and what opportunities they have. Remember, choosing one career now doesn't mean you can't switch or blend in the other later. Many people successfully change paths as their interests and situations change.
María José Molina
HRBP
5
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
María José’s Answer
Choosing between a career in cosmetology or music education is a big decision, but it can be exciting too. Both paths offer their own special opportunities and challenges. Think about what makes you happiest: is it making things beautiful or helping others discover their musical talents? Consider your skills and see where they might shine the most. Look into the job prospects and growth in each field, and think about what people need right now. Ultimately, go with what matches your personal goals and values, and picture where you’ll feel most fulfilled. Now's your chance to explore and pick a path that inspires you.
Raquel Aguirre
Associate Consultant
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Raquel’s Answer
Hi Nevaeh!
Quick disclaimer -- I am not a cosmetologist or a music teacher, but I can share some general advice for when someone feels stuck between two career paths, especially when both feel exciting and meaningful.
First off, it's actually a really good sign that you're drawn to both! It means you've been paying attention to what you enjoy, not just picking something because you "should." Since you're already taking classes in both cosmetology and chorale, you're doing exactly what you should be doing which is testing things out instead of guessing.
A few things that might help you decide (or at least feel less stuck):
1. Pay attention to how you feel: After a long day, which class leaves you feeling more excited versus drained? Which do you find yourself talking about more without being asked?
2. Try and picture your day-to-day: Imagine a random day in five years from now. In one version, you are working with clients, styling hair or doing makeup. In the other, you're rehearsing with students, planning lessons, and directing music. Which version feels more like you?
3. Be a little logical too: Okay, I promise I'm not saying "ignore your passion and just chase the money," BUT it is also important to think about compensation and financial stability. Life can be expensive and stressful, and having financial security can make it a lot easier to actually enjoy your work (and your free time). It's worth looking at things like starting pay, long-term earning potential, benefits, and how consistent the income tends to be.
4. Remember it doesn't have to be forever: I have said this in almost every piece of advice I have given because it is so relevant for everyone! A lot of people think their first career choice locks them in for life, but it doesn't. You could pursue one for now, and keep the other as a side passion, or even just switch later. Plenty of people do this.
5. Understand that there is overlap: Creativity, performance, working with people, and making others feel confident show up in both careers. This means that no matter which path you choose, you're still using the same core strengths!
I hope this was helpful, and I wish you the best of luck with your future! If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Quick disclaimer -- I am not a cosmetologist or a music teacher, but I can share some general advice for when someone feels stuck between two career paths, especially when both feel exciting and meaningful.
First off, it's actually a really good sign that you're drawn to both! It means you've been paying attention to what you enjoy, not just picking something because you "should." Since you're already taking classes in both cosmetology and chorale, you're doing exactly what you should be doing which is testing things out instead of guessing.
A few things that might help you decide (or at least feel less stuck):
1. Pay attention to how you feel: After a long day, which class leaves you feeling more excited versus drained? Which do you find yourself talking about more without being asked?
2. Try and picture your day-to-day: Imagine a random day in five years from now. In one version, you are working with clients, styling hair or doing makeup. In the other, you're rehearsing with students, planning lessons, and directing music. Which version feels more like you?
3. Be a little logical too: Okay, I promise I'm not saying "ignore your passion and just chase the money," BUT it is also important to think about compensation and financial stability. Life can be expensive and stressful, and having financial security can make it a lot easier to actually enjoy your work (and your free time). It's worth looking at things like starting pay, long-term earning potential, benefits, and how consistent the income tends to be.
4. Remember it doesn't have to be forever: I have said this in almost every piece of advice I have given because it is so relevant for everyone! A lot of people think their first career choice locks them in for life, but it doesn't. You could pursue one for now, and keep the other as a side passion, or even just switch later. Plenty of people do this.
5. Understand that there is overlap: Creativity, performance, working with people, and making others feel confident show up in both careers. This means that no matter which path you choose, you're still using the same core strengths!
I hope this was helpful, and I wish you the best of luck with your future! If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Kariba Tillman
Culture and Belonging
3
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Kariba’s Answer
It's great that you're looking at different career paths. Think about your short-term and long-term goals and see which option fits best with what you need. Remember, your job doesn't have to be your main passion, but it's important to feel passionate about what you do. If you choose one career, look for ways to stay connected to your other interests through community service or part-time work. Take your time, as this is an important decision, and you'll choose the path that feels right for you!
Marcey Lieberman
Risk Management
3
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Marcey’s Answer
Hi Navaeh! As you study both fields, have you thought about talking to professionals in each career? Maybe one path, like being a cosmetologist, could offer part-time work, allowing you to also teach choir or music. Have you asked choir or music teachers if they can work part-time or as substitutes, giving you the chance to be a full-time cosmetologist? You might not have to choose just one career. Speaking with alumni in both areas can give you a glimpse into their daily lives and help you meet more people in the field. These conversations could guide you in deciding if you can follow both paths. Trust your instincts and best of luck!
Brandon Twine, PCC
Executive Coach
4
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
Hi Nevaeh, I have been there as well earlier in my career and life, and it was so hard to make directional choices because I enjoyed a number of areas for work and career (and life!). What worked for me was ultimately to take a leap. It may not wind up being the perfect choice. You might also try a "conversation with your future self" exercise. I am an Executive Coach now and I use this approach when helping leaders make important choices where they are uncertain which path to take.
To do this, project yourself into the future, where you might be in roles in either direction. How does your "future self" experience the roles, the activities, the interactions with people, the impact you're making? And as you are doing this activity, what do you notice, in terms of thoughts, emotions, and "felt experience". That could point you towards your intuition, which you could use to make a choice. Or take a leap!
To do this, project yourself into the future, where you might be in roles in either direction. How does your "future self" experience the roles, the activities, the interactions with people, the impact you're making? And as you are doing this activity, what do you notice, in terms of thoughts, emotions, and "felt experience". That could point you towards your intuition, which you could use to make a choice. Or take a leap!
Jan Alexander
Proposal Project Manager
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Jan’s Answer
Choosing between two career paths that match your interests and skills is a great position to be in. You're deciding between becoming a cosmetologist, like a hairstylist or makeup artist, and being a choir or music teacher. With your enrollment in online cosmetology and chorale classes, plus your research, you're already making progress. Here are some steps to help you decide:
1. Think about what you love doing and what you're good at.
2. Consider the kind of lifestyle you want.
3. Look into job opportunities and growth in each field.
4. Check out the education and certification needed for each path.
5. Try to get some real-world experience in both areas.
1. Think about what you love doing and what you're good at.
2. Consider the kind of lifestyle you want.
3. Look into job opportunities and growth in each field.
4. Check out the education and certification needed for each path.
5. Try to get some real-world experience in both areas.
Martha B
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Pursue what brings you joy. Keep an open mind and consider spending time observing professionals in these careers.
Olivia Alford
I am a Strategic Initiatives Manager. My job is related to strategic planning and am a Project Manager.
9
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Hi Nevaeh,
Feeling stuck between two careers is very normal, especially when you are interested in both. The good news is that you are already doing the right thing by taking classes in cosmetology and music. A helpful next step is to notice how each class makes you feel over time. Ask yourself which one you enjoy more daily and which one gives you more energy instead of stress. You can also think about what kind of work life you want. Cosmetology often involves flexible hours and creative, hands-on work, while teaching music usually offers a more structured schedule and steady income.
If possible, try each path in real life. You could shadow a hairstylist or makeup artist and talk to a music or choir teacher about their daily work. This can help you see what the jobs are really like. You do not have to decide everything right now. Some people even combine both paths, such as doing cosmetology while teaching or coaching music part-time. Keep exploring, pay attention to what feels right, and give yourself time to choose.
Feeling stuck between two careers is very normal, especially when you are interested in both. The good news is that you are already doing the right thing by taking classes in cosmetology and music. A helpful next step is to notice how each class makes you feel over time. Ask yourself which one you enjoy more daily and which one gives you more energy instead of stress. You can also think about what kind of work life you want. Cosmetology often involves flexible hours and creative, hands-on work, while teaching music usually offers a more structured schedule and steady income.
If possible, try each path in real life. You could shadow a hairstylist or makeup artist and talk to a music or choir teacher about their daily work. This can help you see what the jobs are really like. You do not have to decide everything right now. Some people even combine both paths, such as doing cosmetology while teaching or coaching music part-time. Keep exploring, pay attention to what feels right, and give yourself time to choose.
Laurel Waites
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Laurel’s Answer
Choosing between two career paths can be exciting and full of potential! Here are some positive steps to help you decide:
Make a Pros and Cons List: Write down the good and bad points of each option. Think about things like job happiness, chances to grow, work-life balance, salary, company culture, location, and job security.
Reflect on Your Values and Goals: Think about what you want most in a career. Is it passion, income, security, making a difference, creativity, or something else? Match each option with your personal and career goals.
Do Your Research: Learn as much as you can about both fields or roles. Talk to people in those jobs, attend informational interviews, or shadow professionals if you can.
Look at Skills and Interests: Think about which career fits your skills, strengths, and interests better. Where do you see yourself thriving and enjoying your daily work?
Consider Long-Term Goals: Imagine where each career could take you in 5, 10, or 20 years. Which one fits your future vision best?
Try It Out: If possible, do internships, freelance work, or part-time jobs in each area to get a feel for them.
Ask for Advice: Talk to mentors, career counselors, family, or trusted friends who know you well.
Listen to Your Gut: Sometimes, your instincts can guide you better than facts alone.
Stay Open-Minded: Remember, many people change careers several times. Your first choice isn’t set in stone.
Make a Pros and Cons List: Write down the good and bad points of each option. Think about things like job happiness, chances to grow, work-life balance, salary, company culture, location, and job security.
Reflect on Your Values and Goals: Think about what you want most in a career. Is it passion, income, security, making a difference, creativity, or something else? Match each option with your personal and career goals.
Do Your Research: Learn as much as you can about both fields or roles. Talk to people in those jobs, attend informational interviews, or shadow professionals if you can.
Look at Skills and Interests: Think about which career fits your skills, strengths, and interests better. Where do you see yourself thriving and enjoying your daily work?
Consider Long-Term Goals: Imagine where each career could take you in 5, 10, or 20 years. Which one fits your future vision best?
Try It Out: If possible, do internships, freelance work, or part-time jobs in each area to get a feel for them.
Ask for Advice: Talk to mentors, career counselors, family, or trusted friends who know you well.
Listen to Your Gut: Sometimes, your instincts can guide you better than facts alone.
Stay Open-Minded: Remember, many people change careers several times. Your first choice isn’t set in stone.
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
73
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
It's totally normal to feel torn between two choices, especially when you like and are good at both. This shows you're exploring your options, which is great. By taking cosmetology and choir classes, you're gaining valuable experience to help you decide.
Think about what a typical day would look like in each career. Cosmetology is hands-on, creative, and involves working with people, offering flexibility but less structure. Music teaching is also creative but more structured, involving lesson planning, working in schools, and building long-term relationships with students. Neither is better; they just suit different lifestyles. Try talking to hairstylists, makeup artists, or music teachers to learn more about their jobs.
Remember, you don't have to choose just one. Many people mix their passions, like teaching music while doing hair or makeup on the side, or keeping music as a hobby. Keep doing both, see which one excites you more, and know it's okay not to have it all figured out yet.
Think about what a typical day would look like in each career. Cosmetology is hands-on, creative, and involves working with people, offering flexibility but less structure. Music teaching is also creative but more structured, involving lesson planning, working in schools, and building long-term relationships with students. Neither is better; they just suit different lifestyles. Try talking to hairstylists, makeup artists, or music teachers to learn more about their jobs.
Remember, you don't have to choose just one. Many people mix their passions, like teaching music while doing hair or makeup on the side, or keeping music as a hobby. Keep doing both, see which one excites you more, and know it's okay not to have it all figured out yet.
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
73
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
Being torn between two choices is totally normal, especially when you enjoy and are good at both. It shows you're exploring your options instead of just picking something without thought. By taking cosmetology and choir classes, you're gaining real experience, which is the best way to decide.
Try to imagine what your daily life would be like in each career. Cosmetology is hands-on, creative, and involves working with people, offering more flexibility but less routine. Music teaching is also creative but involves more structure, with lesson planning, working in schools, and building long-term relationships with students. Neither is better; they just suit different lifestyles. If you can, talk to hairstylists, makeup artists, or music teachers to learn about their jobs.
Remember, you don't have to choose one and leave the other behind. Many people blend their interests, like teaching music while doing hair or makeup on the side, or keeping music as a big part of their life even if it's not their main job. Keep doing both for now, see which one you enjoy more, and know it's okay not to have everything figured out yet.
Try to imagine what your daily life would be like in each career. Cosmetology is hands-on, creative, and involves working with people, offering more flexibility but less routine. Music teaching is also creative but involves more structure, with lesson planning, working in schools, and building long-term relationships with students. Neither is better; they just suit different lifestyles. If you can, talk to hairstylists, makeup artists, or music teachers to learn about their jobs.
Remember, you don't have to choose one and leave the other behind. Many people blend their interests, like teaching music while doing hair or makeup on the side, or keeping music as a big part of their life even if it's not their main job. Keep doing both for now, see which one you enjoy more, and know it's okay not to have everything figured out yet.