Aimee
[closed] How can someone obtain an almost perfect career?
It seems nowadays that many people dislike their jobs and are only in them for the money. These tend to be the same people who quit after less than a year, and who are not happy. They tend to be the ones who do not get much done, and are not grateful for much. Employees like these tend to draw my energy away from me. I know from experience that I wish to avoid doing this personally when I work in my career. What are some good ways for someone to obtain a career that s/he believes in, hopes for, and wants? I want to work for something and have a reason other than "I need the money", or "It is just a job to get me by". Should someone pick a company that aligns its beliefs with the same personal beliefs?
Thank you,
Aimee #business #management #administration #life-coach #life-coaching
4 answers
Stephanie Z.
Stephanie’s Answer
Hi, Aimee,
You ask a very interesting but difficult question. The people who feel they have positive careers are those who like what they do and find places to work where they feel comfortable, valued, and that they can make a difference and continue to grow.
I do not believe there is such a thing as a perfect career, because every job has unique challenges, and while it is in your control to make decisions about what jobs you take and how well you perform in these jobs, there are other things that may impact your career that are completely out of your control. For example, you could be in a job you like at a company and lose your job not because of anything that you did wrong but because the company is having financial difficulty and has to eliminate certain positions.
What is most important is to find something you like and look for opportunities to grow and expand your skill set and knowledge base. Making strong connections with people who can mentor you along the way will help you, as well.
The good news is that there is no one "right" career path. Don't be afraid to try new things and to be flexible in how you approach your career, no matter what you choose to do. Good luck to you!
Gary Petito
Gary’s Answer
Hello,
That is a good question :) I am 52 years old and working in a job I really like a lot but I work for a company I love working for so for me my career is with my company (since you are in the Austin area, you probably know my employer Dell).
The answer to your question is not a simple or easy one, I think the answer comes from within you and what you hope to gain out of your career/job other than a paycheck and benefits...which there is nothing wrong with at all...many great people work because they have to but I have found that my job/career is usually what I make of it with my attitude towards my work, customers, coworkers and goals that are set for me and that I set for myself.
hope this helps and makes some sense...good luck!
J User
J’s Answer
I think it's helpful to believe in your company's mission and values, but for me, the people are what make or break the experience. In all the jobs I have ever loved, I have been surrounded by people who strive for excellence and are motivated by factors beyond just money or recognition. They were all brilliant but humble and always supportive of their teammates.
There are all different types of people at every company and it's good that you already know what kind of characters affect you negatively. You can choose to surround yourself with people who inspire positivity.
More specific advice would be to really consider team culture when looking at workplaces. Don't be afraid to ask questions about workplace environment and culture. It's important to find a company where you feel comfortable!
Robert G Zerafa
Robert G’s Answer
That's a very personal decision, and perfect for one might not be perfect for another. For example, there are many people I know who study and practice law all day and thrive in it - not something I would enjoy doing but they are incredibly happy and successful in their own right (whether it be that they are just happy and/or financially rewarded or both).
So, what does make you happy? What are your principles and goals that drive you (both those that you inherently follow and those that you agree with)? Once you align with those inner feelings and what would make you wake up each day happy to go out and do something that you feels brings value not only to an employer, but more importantly to your community at large and yourself, I think the career you build will be perfect for you.
Best of luck, Rob