14 answers
Mya
Student
Cedar Falls, Iowa
1
Question
Asked
518 views
When did you realize what you wanted to do with your life?
I want to continue my education after high school, but it's hard to decide what field to go into.
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14 answers
Tara Cortez
Chaplin and Volunteer Resources Researcher
24
Answers
Autryville, North Carolina
Updated
Tara’s Answer
EMPOWER YOURSELF WITH KNOWLEDGE
Never believe that there's an age cap on learning or a limit to how far your education can reach. If the cost of college feels overwhelming, consider exploring free online courses. Platforms like LinkedIn, Eventbrite, and Nonprofit Ready, among others, offer a wealth of knowledge at no cost.
You might also think about gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, or volunteering. These opportunities not only equip you with valuable skills but also provide real-world experience.
Don't forget to explore various financial aid programs, grants, and scholarships that can ease the financial burden of education. Student loans are another option, but remember to research interest rates, loan types, and repayment schedules thoroughly.
In today's world, most jobs require some level of expertise. So, view your ongoing education as an investment that could lead to a more rewarding and higher-paying job than what's typically available straight out of high school. While you already possess some skills, continuing your education can amplify these skills and open up a broader spectrum of opportunities.
1. Free online courses - a fantastic way to boost skills and open more doors.
2. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid - a means to finance your education without straining your budget.
3. Student loans - a method to financially support your education.
4. Internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and volunteering - a path to acquire experience while honing skills.
I sincerely hope this information inspires you to view learning as an investment in yourself and your future career progression. I wish you nothing but success in all your future pursuits.
Never believe that there's an age cap on learning or a limit to how far your education can reach. If the cost of college feels overwhelming, consider exploring free online courses. Platforms like LinkedIn, Eventbrite, and Nonprofit Ready, among others, offer a wealth of knowledge at no cost.
You might also think about gaining hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, or volunteering. These opportunities not only equip you with valuable skills but also provide real-world experience.
Don't forget to explore various financial aid programs, grants, and scholarships that can ease the financial burden of education. Student loans are another option, but remember to research interest rates, loan types, and repayment schedules thoroughly.
In today's world, most jobs require some level of expertise. So, view your ongoing education as an investment that could lead to a more rewarding and higher-paying job than what's typically available straight out of high school. While you already possess some skills, continuing your education can amplify these skills and open up a broader spectrum of opportunities.
1. Free online courses - a fantastic way to boost skills and open more doors.
2. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid - a means to finance your education without straining your budget.
3. Student loans - a method to financially support your education.
4. Internships, apprenticeships, job shadowing, and volunteering - a path to acquire experience while honing skills.
I sincerely hope this information inspires you to view learning as an investment in yourself and your future career progression. I wish you nothing but success in all your future pursuits.
Stacey Baldini
Product Designer
12
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Stacey’s Answer
Hi Mya, there's some good nuggets in this thread. :)
I think the thing that helped me most was essentially this diagram:
https://i0.wp.com/www.shoaibqureshi.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/profit-passion-proficiency-model.png?resize=1024%2C723
From Michael Hyatt:
Passion
This is where it begins. What do you care about? What moves you? What problems do you want to solve or issues you want to address? If your heart is not in your work, you have a job but not a calling.
Proficiency
Passion alone is not enough. You have to be good at what you do. Being good enough will not give you the satisfaction you desire. You have to excel at your craft and be awesome. Mastery is the goal.
Profit
To enjoy a successful career, people must be willing to pay you for what you do. You don’t have to get rich, but there must be a market for your product or service. Otherwise, your career is not sustainable.
The key is to finding the sweet spot where these overlap. I find it to be a good balance and realistic while also taking into account what you actually enjoy doing.
I think the thing that helped me most was essentially this diagram:
https://i0.wp.com/www.shoaibqureshi.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/profit-passion-proficiency-model.png?resize=1024%2C723
From Michael Hyatt:
Passion
This is where it begins. What do you care about? What moves you? What problems do you want to solve or issues you want to address? If your heart is not in your work, you have a job but not a calling.
Proficiency
Passion alone is not enough. You have to be good at what you do. Being good enough will not give you the satisfaction you desire. You have to excel at your craft and be awesome. Mastery is the goal.
Profit
To enjoy a successful career, people must be willing to pay you for what you do. You don’t have to get rich, but there must be a market for your product or service. Otherwise, your career is not sustainable.
The key is to finding the sweet spot where these overlap. I find it to be a good balance and realistic while also taking into account what you actually enjoy doing.
Anell Colon
Senior Account Director
7
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Anell’s Answer
Hi Mya,
When I was younger, I created a particular path for myself and my career, thinking that I knew exactly what I wanted to do and how I wanted to achieve it. As time passed and I experienced new jobs, roles, and people, my thoughts and feelings around "what I want to do" changed. But what has stayed the same is how I want to feel doing the work and how I want to impact the world around me.
If you're in a place where you feel like, "Ugh! I wish I knew what I wanted to do already!" first, know that you are not alone. Secondly, consider how you want to feel doing it, regardless of the job/role, and what impact you want to leave. Then ask yourself what I am interested in and start there! Because the path will slowly but surely unfold for you as you continue to explore and trust your passions and interests. As you gain experience, your course becomes clearer! Focus less on the perfect first step and just take the step, everything else follows :)
When I was younger, I created a particular path for myself and my career, thinking that I knew exactly what I wanted to do and how I wanted to achieve it. As time passed and I experienced new jobs, roles, and people, my thoughts and feelings around "what I want to do" changed. But what has stayed the same is how I want to feel doing the work and how I want to impact the world around me.
If you're in a place where you feel like, "Ugh! I wish I knew what I wanted to do already!" first, know that you are not alone. Secondly, consider how you want to feel doing it, regardless of the job/role, and what impact you want to leave. Then ask yourself what I am interested in and start there! Because the path will slowly but surely unfold for you as you continue to explore and trust your passions and interests. As you gain experience, your course becomes clearer! Focus less on the perfect first step and just take the step, everything else follows :)
Anna Oliver
Digital Leader
7
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Anna’s Answer
Hello there! You know, it wasn't until my late twenties that I truly figured out where I wanted to channel my energy career-wise. My early years were a bit of a mixed bag, filled with a wide array of learning opportunities and experiences. It took me a while, but eventually, I stumbled upon an area that truly piqued my interest. Looking back, I can confidently say that this winding journey didn't slow me down one bit. In fact, it's been quite the opposite! The diverse experiences I've had, the various industries I've dipped my toes into, and the assortment of people and teams I've had the pleasure of working with have all enriched my career in ways I never anticipated.
Alana Arberg
Senior Director of Sales Operations
6
Answers
Brick, New Jersey
Updated
Alana’s Answer
You are not alone in this difficult decision! Think about what you like to do and the type of work schedule works best for you.
The most important thing is to enjoy what you like to do. This could be working with people, traveling, working with a team, consulting, working in an office or remote, and the geographical location. There are so many options now a day but making a decision on a career you think will be great based on salary might make you miserable. Once you find the job that you like it will compliment your work/life balance and minimize your stress. So many people have fallen into career because they thought it was the path they should take rather than what they wanted to take and they are miserable, stressed, and unhealthy.
If you find you have several things you are interested in, check out various resources to learn a little more about each career. Also talk with people in those industries to get their thoughts on their day to day experience.
When thinking about the work schedule you need that should also betaken into account. For example, do you need a flexible schedule, work remote, or desire to be in an office. How far are you willing to commute and are you open to travel.
When starting your career remember that you will continue to learn new things and network with several people as you grow in your career. It's an exciting time and remember to enjoy the process and before you now it you will find that right fit where you enjoy what you are doing, learn new things, and meet new people.
The most important thing is to enjoy what you like to do. This could be working with people, traveling, working with a team, consulting, working in an office or remote, and the geographical location. There are so many options now a day but making a decision on a career you think will be great based on salary might make you miserable. Once you find the job that you like it will compliment your work/life balance and minimize your stress. So many people have fallen into career because they thought it was the path they should take rather than what they wanted to take and they are miserable, stressed, and unhealthy.
If you find you have several things you are interested in, check out various resources to learn a little more about each career. Also talk with people in those industries to get their thoughts on their day to day experience.
When thinking about the work schedule you need that should also betaken into account. For example, do you need a flexible schedule, work remote, or desire to be in an office. How far are you willing to commute and are you open to travel.
When starting your career remember that you will continue to learn new things and network with several people as you grow in your career. It's an exciting time and remember to enjoy the process and before you now it you will find that right fit where you enjoy what you are doing, learn new things, and meet new people.
david kirk
Retired Computing Manager
472
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
david’s Answer
Hi, Mya,
On your question, you may never find the answer, but that isn't 'bad news.' You will discover many opportunities and have many experiences that enrich your life. What you seek in life is contentment and a sense of personal achievement. Stay open to new ideas and possible changes in your life that you had never anticipated. You may find your true calling in your 40s or even 50s, but that's still good. Too often, we give the signal to teenagers that they must find the one perfect career by the time they're 22, and that is not realistic. I have never met the person age 5o or more who felt they had found their one true career immediately in or shortly after school. I wish you well on life's journey. Enjoy it and be content within yourself. My life has seen many careers, all somewhat related, but still quite diverse. All the best to you.
On your question, you may never find the answer, but that isn't 'bad news.' You will discover many opportunities and have many experiences that enrich your life. What you seek in life is contentment and a sense of personal achievement. Stay open to new ideas and possible changes in your life that you had never anticipated. You may find your true calling in your 40s or even 50s, but that's still good. Too often, we give the signal to teenagers that they must find the one perfect career by the time they're 22, and that is not realistic. I have never met the person age 5o or more who felt they had found their one true career immediately in or shortly after school. I wish you well on life's journey. Enjoy it and be content within yourself. My life has seen many careers, all somewhat related, but still quite diverse. All the best to you.
Carolyn Murphy
Premier Service Consultant
6
Answers
Country Club Hills, Illinois
Updated
Carolyn’s Answer
There's no need to worry if you're unsure about your future path as you continue your education after high school. College is designed to help you grow and discover yourself, so it's perfectly fine to begin without a clear vision of your career. You can start with general studies and engage in elective courses, clubs, or activities that catch your attention. As you immerse yourself in these diverse experiences and connect with new people, you'll gradually discover your true passion. Remember, it's important to take your time and be patient with yourself - you'll find your path eventually.
Niha D
Physical Therapist
60
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Niha’s Answer
I didn't realize until about halfway through college. And it wasn't exactly just about my career. I knew I wanted to help people, and I knew more about what I didn't want to do than what I did. No job is perfect, it just doesn't exist. So, with that in mind, I looked at what else I wanted out of life.
1) Profit: How much did I need to do what I wanted with my life safely, comfortably, and with enough for later?
2) Personal Life: What do I need to fulfil my life outside my career? Do I plan on working until I retire, or will there be other options for me (getting married and quitting, etc)?
3) What am I willing to put into this? Did I want to do more school? Did I just want to take what I could with the degree I would be getting or did I want more?
I realized that I liked learning and with scholarships, I would be able to afford it luckily, so I went through more schooling for a doctorate. I also realized I needed a job that afforded me travel and time off so I could pursue the things that made me happy, like exploring, taking photos, reading and dancing. So I chose a field that fulfilled as many of those answers as I could.
1) Profit: How much did I need to do what I wanted with my life safely, comfortably, and with enough for later?
2) Personal Life: What do I need to fulfil my life outside my career? Do I plan on working until I retire, or will there be other options for me (getting married and quitting, etc)?
3) What am I willing to put into this? Did I want to do more school? Did I just want to take what I could with the degree I would be getting or did I want more?
I realized that I liked learning and with scholarships, I would be able to afford it luckily, so I went through more schooling for a doctorate. I also realized I needed a job that afforded me travel and time off so I could pursue the things that made me happy, like exploring, taking photos, reading and dancing. So I chose a field that fulfilled as many of those answers as I could.
Christina Marchlewicz
Premier Service Consultant
6
Answers
Rockford, Illinois
Updated
Christina’s Answer
Drawing from experience and the opportunities that align with your abilities, it's clear that your career journey is always evolving. However, the fundamental aspects of your job are what truly enrich you. If the opportunity brings you a sense of fulfillment and appreciation, you're exactly where you need to be.
Understanding yourself, recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, as well as identifying your passions and motivations, are all crucial. You will undoubtedly discover what you love doing, but that doesn't necessarily mean the job title you initially desired is the one that's best for you.
As time progresses, you will carve out your own unique path and find joy in your work, as long as you remain authentic to yourself. This is the key to a fulfilling career journey. Remember, it's not just about the destination, but also about the journey itself.
Understanding yourself, recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, as well as identifying your passions and motivations, are all crucial. You will undoubtedly discover what you love doing, but that doesn't necessarily mean the job title you initially desired is the one that's best for you.
As time progresses, you will carve out your own unique path and find joy in your work, as long as you remain authentic to yourself. This is the key to a fulfilling career journey. Remember, it's not just about the destination, but also about the journey itself.
Samuel Lazarit
C&C Manager
2
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Samuel’s Answer
Don't fret if you're still unsure about the right career path at this stage in your life. You have an abundance of time to discover your true calling. My top tip would be to consider part-time work related to your field of study. This will give you a real-world glimpse into your potential future, bridging the gap between theory and practice. School can provide you with ample theoretical knowledge, but it's through hands-on experience that you'll discover if you truly enjoy or even love what you're doing. So, I urge you to embrace the opportunity of part-time work to help in your self-discovery. As time goes by, your passions will become clearer. Remember, life isn't a race against anyone else. We all move at our own pace, so focus on your own journey. Hold yourself accountable for your likes and dislikes, and keep moving forward. Learn from every experience and always be honest with yourself!
Jazlyn Grell
Sales Manager
4
Answers
Poinciana, Florida
Updated
Jazlyn’s Answer
The moment I understood that I was in the perfect profession was when my daily tasks began to feel more like enjoyable activities rather than laborious work, and I found myself looking forward to each day. The key is to discover something that you truly love doing, and in my case, it was assisting others in becoming the best they can be. The financial gain is simply an added perk.
Lawrence Rich, PhD
Area Manager
2
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Lawrence’s Answer
Life really is not a straight line. Keeping focused on what your goals are is important but know that most roads twist and turn and some are pretty bumpy! Enjoy the ride and those you travel with as well as the beautiful countryside along the way. Some days will be stormy but if you keep moving forward you’ll get to your destination. It’s ok to change your destination occasionally too if needed but keep moving and don’t go backwards!
Davis Turner
4
Answers
Orange, Texas
Updated
Davis’s Answer
I know people who knew what they wanted to do since they were a child. I still don't know what I want to do with the rest of my life and I am almost 50. But I am very happy with who I am and what I have become. I believe life is a process. We are all different in personalities, backgrounds, experiences, talents, skills, etc. I think the key is learning as much as you can about yourself but recognize that you will change/adapt over time. Then look for balance in utilizing your skills, talents, likes mixing in challenges and learn from mistakes along the way. Figure out your priorities such as faith, family, fitness, finances and make sure it all aligns as much as possible.
Ricky Gutierrez
Outside sales
1
Answer
Santa Paula
Updated
Ricky’s Answer
Once I discovered my spiritual connection with God, my life's purpose became clear. This is my heartfelt truth. It was essential for me to acknowledge this before anything else. I embraced humility and found peace in knowing that I am prepared to face any hurdles that come my way, as long as they align with God's plan for my career.
The journey since then has been incredible. I began my working life pushing carts outside a Sam's Club when I was just 17-18 years old, then I became a butcher. At that time, I was still searching for my purpose. My career path then led me to the telecommunications industry with Sprint Mobile, and eventually to AT&T. Today, I am proud to be an outside sales manager for AT&T's Integrated Solutions Department, and I'm excited about my upcoming transition to become an Integrated Solutions Manager.
In this role, I lead a dedicated team that handles outside sales for AT&T and provides solutions for any business or residential customer in need of our assistance.
In conclusion, discover what you're good at and what you're passionate about. Trust in God's guidance, for He is reliable. It was with this trust that I found my true calling - to help others.
The journey since then has been incredible. I began my working life pushing carts outside a Sam's Club when I was just 17-18 years old, then I became a butcher. At that time, I was still searching for my purpose. My career path then led me to the telecommunications industry with Sprint Mobile, and eventually to AT&T. Today, I am proud to be an outside sales manager for AT&T's Integrated Solutions Department, and I'm excited about my upcoming transition to become an Integrated Solutions Manager.
In this role, I lead a dedicated team that handles outside sales for AT&T and provides solutions for any business or residential customer in need of our assistance.
In conclusion, discover what you're good at and what you're passionate about. Trust in God's guidance, for He is reliable. It was with this trust that I found my true calling - to help others.