33 answers
tristyn
Student
Winter Garden, Florida
1
Question
Asked
1643 views
How am I supposed to know what I want to do with the rest of my life?
How am I supposed to know what I want to do with the rest of my life? Will I ever get sick of my job? What if I want to change careers? I am lost and confused.
33 answers
Samuel Jones
Customer experience
1
Answer
Sherwood Park, Alberta, Canada
Updated
Samuel’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your career path. Reflect on your interests, strengths, and values to help guide your decision. Remember, it's okay to change careers if you're not fulfilled.
Take time to explore your options. Your previous job experiences can provide valuable insights as you navigate this journey.
However, it's worth mentioning that I stumbled upon my current career by chance. It was offered to me by a manager who saw potential in me to grow and excel in the role, and I'm quite satisfied with where I am. Despite this, there's a lingering part of me that occasionally ponders my childhood dream job and wonders "what if."
Take time to explore your options. Your previous job experiences can provide valuable insights as you navigate this journey.
However, it's worth mentioning that I stumbled upon my current career by chance. It was offered to me by a manager who saw potential in me to grow and excel in the role, and I'm quite satisfied with where I am. Despite this, there's a lingering part of me that occasionally ponders my childhood dream job and wonders "what if."
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Life is very complex and there are few guarantees. Work will have ups and downs, but if you can find something you are passionate about, you can increase your likelihood of being content.
I didn’t know what I wanted to do until after I graduated from college. It’s ok to not have it figured out. Explore electives, talk to teachers and professionals in your life and ask what they enjoy about their work. Use this time to ask lots of questions.
I didn’t know what I wanted to do until after I graduated from college. It’s ok to not have it figured out. Explore electives, talk to teachers and professionals in your life and ask what they enjoy about their work. Use this time to ask lots of questions.
Jody Muniz, P.E.
Project Manager / Forensic Engineer
25
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Jody’s Answer
Hello Tristyn,
Hello Tristyn,
You have asked a very broad question that many people struggle with, including myself. I sincerely believe that you will be able to figure out what you want to do during your journey of life. I recommend you look for jobs that you will enjoy doing. When I worked at NASA, I worked 6 and 7 days a week but I loved my job so it was not work to me and I learned how to do so many different things. I went door-knocking at NASA and asked - what jobs are available here that I can do? And I found a great job in their operations department that I was really NOT suited for but since there was a serious shortage of workers and the operations manager wanted somebody immediately, they hired me because I filled out an application and told them - I am ready to go to work today. I spent 10 years there and 9 of them were enjoyable, the last year was horrible, and they let me go which was a huge favor to me. They treated me really bad, and it forced me to get out of my comfort zone “AGAIN” and find another job that could utilize my skills. I have had multiple jobs in my career that gave me a lot of different skills because they forced me to get out of my comfort zone and learn how to do a lot of different things. Getting out of your comfort zone is not a lot of fun but necessary for continued personal growth.
When I was 16, I asked my dad to help me get a job and he told me that nobody gave him any jobs and that he had to go out and find his own jobs. And he told me – nobody is coming to your house to hire you; you have to go out and find your job. I was very disappointed, I was forced to go out looking for a job and was not sure where, so I went to a lot of places, and I got a lot of NO’s when I asked if there were any jobs I could do. I taught myself how to look for a job. And because I went out looking, I found the best job on the entire planet for me at the Six Bar Ranch. They taught me how to drive tractors, work cattle, and be a farmer. I loved that job, and I gladly worked every day they let me work. Later I left that job because working in construction paid me triple what the farmer was paying me and I was used to working hard. So, I made more money working fewer hours and most of all I learned how to look for a better job when I needed to, which is something I have done all my life. I had to get out of my comfort zone to find something better.
Being “LOST” is temporary and I have been lost multiple times in my life until I figured out which way I wanted to go. I recommend you learn the Serenity Prayer; this prayer has carried me during some really, really, really hard times in my life. I lost my home after Hurricane Ike and it was really hard on me and my family and I learned that all material things can be replaced.
Being CONFUSED is a temporary description of your choice because you don't have a final answer that you agree with yet. This is very common, and I learned how to not fear the unknown. Every day I choose to be happy and be positive no matter what happens. This is a daily quest for me and some days it is not easy at all to stay positive, but I do it. I have been a lifelong student and I learned how to teach myself how to do a lot of different things and I learned how to network and work with groups that taught me a lot of different things. I recommend you get out of your comfort zone and try new things. You will find out what you enjoy doing.
I recommend you join groups and clubs that will help learn how to do different things. You will meet like-minded people that will help you find things you enjoy doing. I learned a lot by working with people who were very good at doing things and they helped teach me or I modeled my actions after watching them and I developed my own methods using what I watched and learned from others. I joined Engineers without Borders and I was invited to go build a school house in Nicaragua. It was really hard and we slept on a concrete floor. The school teacher came to thank us and she cried because she was so happy to have a real school house for her kids. I was very glad I changed my work schedule and used my vacation time to go.
I recommend you make a gratitude list and be grateful for what you have today, i.e., good health, a home, the ability to go to school, and most of all, the ability to build your future. Then make a wish list, where you want to go and what you do you want to do. Life is a journey and a marathon, and the good days will outnumber the hard days. The hard days will make you grow and teach you valuable lessons. The harder you work when you are younger will help make the future easier. I learn from my mistakes, and I have many so many I stopped counting. The mistakes I made led to my job at NASA after I got fired from a job, I took that was way over my head and the owner had no patience for me to learn.
Also, I recommend you find ways to boost your confidence. This is not an easy task, and everybody has different ways to do this. I joined Toastmasters International and for $10/month I attended weekly meetings, and I lost my fear of public speaking. I loved the camaraderie of the group, and they helped me grow and my growth helped me become a lot more confident. I am able to work as an Independent consultant now and it is very hard but I am not scared of working hard anymore and most of all I have learned how to deal with clients, co-workers, and the general public. Not everybody likes me and I learned how to be OK with that and just move on and be a good person no matter what happens. Being at Peace with yourself is very, very important for happiness. I learned how to meditate, and it helped me tremendously to keep my inner peace. I recommend you watch Mindvalley you tube videos for ideas about meditation. The founder named Vishen Lahkiani has an incredible story of his journey of living with his parents and then creating Mindvalley to help others.
Tristyn, you will be successful no matter what happens, I promise you that. How successful you want to be, will be based on the decisions you make for your path and your journey. God Speed and stay positive no matter what. Cheers !
Hello Tristyn,
You have asked a very broad question that many people struggle with, including myself. I sincerely believe that you will be able to figure out what you want to do during your journey of life. I recommend you look for jobs that you will enjoy doing. When I worked at NASA, I worked 6 and 7 days a week but I loved my job so it was not work to me and I learned how to do so many different things. I went door-knocking at NASA and asked - what jobs are available here that I can do? And I found a great job in their operations department that I was really NOT suited for but since there was a serious shortage of workers and the operations manager wanted somebody immediately, they hired me because I filled out an application and told them - I am ready to go to work today. I spent 10 years there and 9 of them were enjoyable, the last year was horrible, and they let me go which was a huge favor to me. They treated me really bad, and it forced me to get out of my comfort zone “AGAIN” and find another job that could utilize my skills. I have had multiple jobs in my career that gave me a lot of different skills because they forced me to get out of my comfort zone and learn how to do a lot of different things. Getting out of your comfort zone is not a lot of fun but necessary for continued personal growth.
When I was 16, I asked my dad to help me get a job and he told me that nobody gave him any jobs and that he had to go out and find his own jobs. And he told me – nobody is coming to your house to hire you; you have to go out and find your job. I was very disappointed, I was forced to go out looking for a job and was not sure where, so I went to a lot of places, and I got a lot of NO’s when I asked if there were any jobs I could do. I taught myself how to look for a job. And because I went out looking, I found the best job on the entire planet for me at the Six Bar Ranch. They taught me how to drive tractors, work cattle, and be a farmer. I loved that job, and I gladly worked every day they let me work. Later I left that job because working in construction paid me triple what the farmer was paying me and I was used to working hard. So, I made more money working fewer hours and most of all I learned how to look for a better job when I needed to, which is something I have done all my life. I had to get out of my comfort zone to find something better.
Being “LOST” is temporary and I have been lost multiple times in my life until I figured out which way I wanted to go. I recommend you learn the Serenity Prayer; this prayer has carried me during some really, really, really hard times in my life. I lost my home after Hurricane Ike and it was really hard on me and my family and I learned that all material things can be replaced.
Being CONFUSED is a temporary description of your choice because you don't have a final answer that you agree with yet. This is very common, and I learned how to not fear the unknown. Every day I choose to be happy and be positive no matter what happens. This is a daily quest for me and some days it is not easy at all to stay positive, but I do it. I have been a lifelong student and I learned how to teach myself how to do a lot of different things and I learned how to network and work with groups that taught me a lot of different things. I recommend you get out of your comfort zone and try new things. You will find out what you enjoy doing.
I recommend you join groups and clubs that will help learn how to do different things. You will meet like-minded people that will help you find things you enjoy doing. I learned a lot by working with people who were very good at doing things and they helped teach me or I modeled my actions after watching them and I developed my own methods using what I watched and learned from others. I joined Engineers without Borders and I was invited to go build a school house in Nicaragua. It was really hard and we slept on a concrete floor. The school teacher came to thank us and she cried because she was so happy to have a real school house for her kids. I was very glad I changed my work schedule and used my vacation time to go.
I recommend you make a gratitude list and be grateful for what you have today, i.e., good health, a home, the ability to go to school, and most of all, the ability to build your future. Then make a wish list, where you want to go and what you do you want to do. Life is a journey and a marathon, and the good days will outnumber the hard days. The hard days will make you grow and teach you valuable lessons. The harder you work when you are younger will help make the future easier. I learn from my mistakes, and I have many so many I stopped counting. The mistakes I made led to my job at NASA after I got fired from a job, I took that was way over my head and the owner had no patience for me to learn.
Also, I recommend you find ways to boost your confidence. This is not an easy task, and everybody has different ways to do this. I joined Toastmasters International and for $10/month I attended weekly meetings, and I lost my fear of public speaking. I loved the camaraderie of the group, and they helped me grow and my growth helped me become a lot more confident. I am able to work as an Independent consultant now and it is very hard but I am not scared of working hard anymore and most of all I have learned how to deal with clients, co-workers, and the general public. Not everybody likes me and I learned how to be OK with that and just move on and be a good person no matter what happens. Being at Peace with yourself is very, very important for happiness. I learned how to meditate, and it helped me tremendously to keep my inner peace. I recommend you watch Mindvalley you tube videos for ideas about meditation. The founder named Vishen Lahkiani has an incredible story of his journey of living with his parents and then creating Mindvalley to help others.
Tristyn, you will be successful no matter what happens, I promise you that. How successful you want to be, will be based on the decisions you make for your path and your journey. God Speed and stay positive no matter what. Cheers !
Karen Kitchel
Community Volunteer
352
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Karen’s Answer
Good you are thinking about your future. Great to have dreams of what you want to become and then eventually you can come up with a plan of how to get there. Enjoy this time when you can explore all sorts of careers which might interest you. Talk to others who have interesting jobs and research others online. You don't need to know right now what you will do with the rest of your life.
If you are in a position which you don't like, you can explore others within the same organization or in another one. Before accepting a job, know what's important to you -- flexible hours, salary, co-workers, etc. And it's ok to change careers -- you have a lifetime, so you may end up with several careers. Like life, jobs will have ups and downs but if you enjoy and feel good about what you're doing, you will be fine.
For now, enjoy life and think positive about your future. You can make your dream come true.
With every good wish.
If you are in a position which you don't like, you can explore others within the same organization or in another one. Before accepting a job, know what's important to you -- flexible hours, salary, co-workers, etc. And it's ok to change careers -- you have a lifetime, so you may end up with several careers. Like life, jobs will have ups and downs but if you enjoy and feel good about what you're doing, you will be fine.
For now, enjoy life and think positive about your future. You can make your dream come true.
With every good wish.
Claire Hartman
Consulting
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Claire’s Answer
Hello Tristyn!
Figuring out what you want to do in life can be challenging, but that's what makes it thrilling! We all have the potential to explore various paths in life. I've seen individuals make significant career transitions, like moving from finance to therapy, and minor ones, like changing roles within the same organization. It's crucial to take that first step and decide where you want to kick-start your career, bearing in mind that it's perfectly fine if this changes over time. If you achieved all your career aspirations in your initial job, then your career journey wouldn't be as exhilarating. Rather than worrying about the future, I prefer to shift my perspective and embrace the excitement of the multitude of opportunities and paths available globally.
Have fun designing your unique career journey!
Figuring out what you want to do in life can be challenging, but that's what makes it thrilling! We all have the potential to explore various paths in life. I've seen individuals make significant career transitions, like moving from finance to therapy, and minor ones, like changing roles within the same organization. It's crucial to take that first step and decide where you want to kick-start your career, bearing in mind that it's perfectly fine if this changes over time. If you achieved all your career aspirations in your initial job, then your career journey wouldn't be as exhilarating. Rather than worrying about the future, I prefer to shift my perspective and embrace the excitement of the multitude of opportunities and paths available globally.
Have fun designing your unique career journey!
Peter Casey
1
Answer
Hackensack, New Jersey
Updated
Peter’s Answer
Dear Tristyn,
I understand that pondering your life's path can feel daunting, as it did for me. However, I encourage you to explore as many avenues as possible until you discover a passion that not only brings you joy but also financially supports you. Remember, it's perfectly fine if your interests evolve over time - change is a part of life, influenced by personal growth and varying circumstances. I've had the privilege of being with the same company for 28 years, but my role has transformed multiple times throughout this journey. Embrace the adventure and best of luck!
I understand that pondering your life's path can feel daunting, as it did for me. However, I encourage you to explore as many avenues as possible until you discover a passion that not only brings you joy but also financially supports you. Remember, it's perfectly fine if your interests evolve over time - change is a part of life, influenced by personal growth and varying circumstances. I've had the privilege of being with the same company for 28 years, but my role has transformed multiple times throughout this journey. Embrace the adventure and best of luck!
Ofemi Brown-Harris
Purpose and Inclusion
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Ofemi’s Answer
It's totally normal to feel a bit lost or unsure about your career path - lots of people feel the same way. Don't worry if you don't have all the answers straight away, no one expects you to. Finding the perfect career is a journey that takes a bit of time and exploration. Have faith in yourself and your skills, and always remember, it's never too late to chase your passions and dreams.
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits.
http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Self-Reflection: Understand your interests, values, and strengths.
Explore Options: Research different careers and try new experiences.
Set Goals: Establish short-term and long-term career objectives.
Seek Guidance: Talk to mentors or career counselors for advice.
Embrace Change: Be open to new opportunities and paths.
Explore on Access Your Potential’s site potential career opportunities like internships and paid consulting externships for nonprofits.
http://accessyourpotential.pwc.com/.
Ofemi recommends the following next steps:
Dwayna Adams
Internal Audit
2
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Dwayna’s Answer
Hey Trystin, take a deep breath! Remember, you're not setting a course for your entire life, but planning for the next five years. As you evolve and mature, your passions will likely shift too. And that's okay! Your career can adapt and grow with you. Embrace the change and eagerly anticipate the next thrilling chapter. I've journeyed through two careers myself and found joy in both. You've got this!
Abhishek Jain
Consulting
26
Answers
Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
It's completely normal to feel lost and confused about your future career path, especially as a student. Many people go through periods of uncertainty and questioning. Here are some suggestions to help you navigate this process:
1. Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your interests, values, and strengths. Consider what activities or subjects you enjoy, what motivates you, and what you excel at. This self-awareness can provide insights into potential career paths that align with your passions and skills.
2. Explore Your Options: Research different careers and industries that spark your curiosity. Look into job descriptions, required qualifications, and potential growth opportunities. Consider talking to professionals in those fields or seeking out internships or job shadowing experiences to gain firsthand exposure.
3. Try New Things: Don't be afraid to try new activities, courses, or hobbies. Exploring different areas can help you discover new interests and passions. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities available to you, such as clubs, workshops, or volunteer work.
4. Seek Guidance: Reach out to career counselors, mentors, or professionals in fields you are interested in. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their own experiences. They may also help you explore different career options and provide clarity.
5. Embrace Change: It's important to remember that career paths are not set in stone. It's okay to change careers or pursue different paths throughout your life. People often evolve and grow, and their interests and priorities may shift over time. Embrace the idea that change is a natural part of life and be open to exploring new opportunities.
6. Continuous Learning: Keep learning and developing new skills. This can help you adapt to changing career landscapes and open up new possibilities. Take advantage of online courses, workshops, or certifications to enhance your knowledge and stay competitive.
7. Trust the Process: Remember that finding your career path is a journey, and it may take time to figure out what truly resonates with you. Be patient with yourself and trust that with exploration, self-reflection, and experience, you will gain clarity and find a fulfilling career.
It's important to note that it's normal to experience ups and downs in any job or career. It's possible to get tired or bored with a particular job, but that doesn't mean you have to stay stuck. If you find yourself wanting to change careers, it's never too late to make a switch. Many people successfully transition to new careers later in life.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to pursue a career that aligns with your passions, values, and interests. Keep exploring, stay open-minded, and trust yourself as you navigate your career journey.
1. Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your interests, values, and strengths. Consider what activities or subjects you enjoy, what motivates you, and what you excel at. This self-awareness can provide insights into potential career paths that align with your passions and skills.
2. Explore Your Options: Research different careers and industries that spark your curiosity. Look into job descriptions, required qualifications, and potential growth opportunities. Consider talking to professionals in those fields or seeking out internships or job shadowing experiences to gain firsthand exposure.
3. Try New Things: Don't be afraid to try new activities, courses, or hobbies. Exploring different areas can help you discover new interests and passions. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities available to you, such as clubs, workshops, or volunteer work.
4. Seek Guidance: Reach out to career counselors, mentors, or professionals in fields you are interested in. They can provide valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their own experiences. They may also help you explore different career options and provide clarity.
5. Embrace Change: It's important to remember that career paths are not set in stone. It's okay to change careers or pursue different paths throughout your life. People often evolve and grow, and their interests and priorities may shift over time. Embrace the idea that change is a natural part of life and be open to exploring new opportunities.
6. Continuous Learning: Keep learning and developing new skills. This can help you adapt to changing career landscapes and open up new possibilities. Take advantage of online courses, workshops, or certifications to enhance your knowledge and stay competitive.
7. Trust the Process: Remember that finding your career path is a journey, and it may take time to figure out what truly resonates with you. Be patient with yourself and trust that with exploration, self-reflection, and experience, you will gain clarity and find a fulfilling career.
It's important to note that it's normal to experience ups and downs in any job or career. It's possible to get tired or bored with a particular job, but that doesn't mean you have to stay stuck. If you find yourself wanting to change careers, it's never too late to make a switch. Many people successfully transition to new careers later in life.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to pursue a career that aligns with your passions, values, and interests. Keep exploring, stay open-minded, and trust yourself as you navigate your career journey.
Kiran Kumar Konduri
Software Engineer
6
Answers
DeBary, Florida
Updated
Kiran Kumar’s Answer
Deciding on a long-term career path can seem daunting, but it's a process that can be approached thoughtfully to make it more manageable and less overwhelming. Here are some steps to help you explore and determine what you might want to do with your life professionally:
1. Self-Reflection
Identify Interests: Consider what you enjoy doing, both in your personal and academic life. What activities make you lose track of time?
Assess Skills: What are you good at? Include both hard skills (like coding or writing) and soft skills (like communicating or problem-solving).
Evaluate Values: What matters to you? This could include work-life balance, helping others, innovation, or financial stability.
2. Research Potential Careers
Explore Fields: Look into various fields that align with your interests and values. Websites like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offer detailed career information.
Talk to Professionals: Conduct informational interviews with people in fields you’re interested in. Ask about their day-to-day activities, the pros and cons of their jobs, and advice for newcomers.
3. Gain Experience
Internships and Part-time Jobs: These provide a hands-on way to understand what working in a certain field is like and can significantly inform your decision.
Volunteer: This can expose you to different roles and organizational cultures without a long-term commitment.
4. Education and Training
Relevant Courses: Take classes in areas that interest you. This can deepen your understanding and help you make more informed decisions.
Workshops and Seminars: Attend these to gain insights from seasoned professionals and to network with peers.
5. Evaluate Lifestyle and Practicalities
Consider Lifestyle: Reflect on the kind of lifestyle each career can offer and how well this matches your personal aspirations.
Job Outlook and Advancement: Research the future demand for the roles you're considering and the typical career progression.
6. Seek Guidance
Career Counseling: Professional career counselors can offer valuable insights and tools for decision-making, like personality tests and career aptitude assessments.
Mentors: A mentor in a field of interest can provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights.
7. Make a Plan
Set Goals: Once you have a clearer idea of your direction, set short-term and long-term goals.
Be Flexible: Your interests and goals might change as you grow personally and professionally. It’s okay to reassess and adjust your plans as needed.
8. Take Action
Start Small: Begin with manageable steps that move you toward your larger goals. This could mean applying for a specific internship or joining a related professional group.
Choosing a career is an evolving process that often involves trial and error. It's important to remain open to new opportunities and experiences and to be patient with yourself as you navigate through different options. Remember, it's perfectly normal not to have everything figured out right away.
1. Self-Reflection
Identify Interests: Consider what you enjoy doing, both in your personal and academic life. What activities make you lose track of time?
Assess Skills: What are you good at? Include both hard skills (like coding or writing) and soft skills (like communicating or problem-solving).
Evaluate Values: What matters to you? This could include work-life balance, helping others, innovation, or financial stability.
2. Research Potential Careers
Explore Fields: Look into various fields that align with your interests and values. Websites like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics offer detailed career information.
Talk to Professionals: Conduct informational interviews with people in fields you’re interested in. Ask about their day-to-day activities, the pros and cons of their jobs, and advice for newcomers.
3. Gain Experience
Internships and Part-time Jobs: These provide a hands-on way to understand what working in a certain field is like and can significantly inform your decision.
Volunteer: This can expose you to different roles and organizational cultures without a long-term commitment.
4. Education and Training
Relevant Courses: Take classes in areas that interest you. This can deepen your understanding and help you make more informed decisions.
Workshops and Seminars: Attend these to gain insights from seasoned professionals and to network with peers.
5. Evaluate Lifestyle and Practicalities
Consider Lifestyle: Reflect on the kind of lifestyle each career can offer and how well this matches your personal aspirations.
Job Outlook and Advancement: Research the future demand for the roles you're considering and the typical career progression.
6. Seek Guidance
Career Counseling: Professional career counselors can offer valuable insights and tools for decision-making, like personality tests and career aptitude assessments.
Mentors: A mentor in a field of interest can provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world insights.
7. Make a Plan
Set Goals: Once you have a clearer idea of your direction, set short-term and long-term goals.
Be Flexible: Your interests and goals might change as you grow personally and professionally. It’s okay to reassess and adjust your plans as needed.
8. Take Action
Start Small: Begin with manageable steps that move you toward your larger goals. This could mean applying for a specific internship or joining a related professional group.
Choosing a career is an evolving process that often involves trial and error. It's important to remain open to new opportunities and experiences and to be patient with yourself as you navigate through different options. Remember, it's perfectly normal not to have everything figured out right away.
Marc Borggreven
Human Capital
4
Answers
Vianen, Netherlands
Updated
Marc’s Answer
Life/career is a journey with many unexpected turns. Try to focus on the things that give you energy and that has your interest. Then give it your best shot and be open to learn and make mistakes (not the same by the way ;-). Actually at times you feel most out of your comfort zone these might be the moments you grow/develop the most. Once every while reflect in a honest way and determine what is next. Dream big, read, learn and get other perspectives. And above all - enjoy and have fun!
May Christy
Digital Assurance and Transparancy
5
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
May’s Answer
Finding your life's purpose isn't always a clear-cut journey, and I truly wish there was a simple test to help guide us. But life doesn't always work that way. It's crucial to remember that your dreams and goals can evolve over time. For me, my primary focus was always to provide for my family and ensure they live a comfortable life, regardless of my career choice.
I've been fortunate to have a job that gave me a sense of purpose, even though it had its fair share of frustrating moments. It's a universal truth that every job has its highs and lows. My heartfelt advice to you is to find joy in your current stage of life. Pursue what brings you happiness and fulfillment in the present moment. If your desires change in the future, you'll at least have the comfort of knowing you were content in the past.
During my college years, I was constantly worried about failing my courses, which caused a lot of stress. I wish I had been kinder to myself and found more ways to enjoy the college experience. Now that I've graduated, I look back and see many missed opportunities for happiness. I studied in Oahu, Hawaii, and I regret not fully appreciating the sunshine, beaches, and the island's beauty.
So, choose happiness now and pay attention to what truly fulfills you.
I've been fortunate to have a job that gave me a sense of purpose, even though it had its fair share of frustrating moments. It's a universal truth that every job has its highs and lows. My heartfelt advice to you is to find joy in your current stage of life. Pursue what brings you happiness and fulfillment in the present moment. If your desires change in the future, you'll at least have the comfort of knowing you were content in the past.
During my college years, I was constantly worried about failing my courses, which caused a lot of stress. I wish I had been kinder to myself and found more ways to enjoy the college experience. Now that I've graduated, I look back and see many missed opportunities for happiness. I studied in Oahu, Hawaii, and I regret not fully appreciating the sunshine, beaches, and the island's beauty.
So, choose happiness now and pay attention to what truly fulfills you.
Janet Robbins
Administrative Support Concierge Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers
1
Answer
Updated
Janet’s Answer
If you don't know what to do with the rest of your life that is fine. You are not alone! This happens a lot. If you are not going to school for a specific career my suggestion would be to just try things out. Often times you will change careers over time. You might start off in an entry level role and will find another area of that company you might want to do. So if a position becomes available go for it! I started in an entry level job doing data entry. I moved up and changed careers with that position. I went into another data entry job that led me into a career in Real Estate as an appraiser. From there I went into sales and then into management. Sometimes life just moves your career along. It's okay. Maybe there will be a point that you have to get a license or go to school for something you find an interest in - such as my appraiser license. But that's okay because that's how you grow. Find jobs that you can gain skills, office skills, digital skills, customer skills, etc. Everything you learn helps you grow for your next role. Honestly, I love learning. I'm 57 and would change my career again if I had an interest in a new role. Don't be afraid to just go for it!
Joseph Udofia
Cloud Engineer
11
Answers
Greensboro, North Carolina
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Choosing a career path can be challenging. There may be times when you find yourself torn between pursuing what you love, chasing a lucrative career, or aligning with your long-term vision.
To navigate this, consider segmenting your life into short, medium, and long-term objectives. Identify what suits you best, what you aspire to accomplish, and then shift towards a career that matches your vision. Remember, it's perfectly fine to stumble and make errors, as they are vital stepping stones in our learning journey.
To navigate this, consider segmenting your life into short, medium, and long-term objectives. Identify what suits you best, what you aspire to accomplish, and then shift towards a career that matches your vision. Remember, it's perfectly fine to stumble and make errors, as they are vital stepping stones in our learning journey.
Stephanie Taylor
Consulting
6
Answers
Columbia, South Carolina
Updated
Stephanie’s Answer
You absolutely do not have to know what you want to do with the rest of your life, especially while you are still in school. Some days, I still don't know what I want to do with the rest of my life and I've been out of college for over a decade. My recommendation while you are in school is to try different things and see what you like. While you are in school, if you are unsure direction, I recommend studying something that is versatile across a lot of industries, like business management, money management, or something in technology--something that would help you whether you go to work for a company or decide to start your own. I did not know what I wanted to do, even when I graduated college, but I'm thankful that my family steered me towards a business degree that gave me a lot of options when I graduated.
Also, if you have the opportunity, speak with people you know that are in the work world to find out more about what they do for a living, and their likes and dislikes of the work. Work on building your network--I've found that having a network can be just as important as experience in some cases.
If you do end up in a career that you don't like, you can always try change careers and find something new--it may not be easy, but people do it all the time. Don't feel like you are bound into one thing for the rest of your life. We are constantly learning and growing and our careers reflect that.
I wish you all the best in the future and please don't stress too much about your future career! Work hard in school, but also enjoy being young and spending time with your family and friends while you are still young!
Also, if you have the opportunity, speak with people you know that are in the work world to find out more about what they do for a living, and their likes and dislikes of the work. Work on building your network--I've found that having a network can be just as important as experience in some cases.
If you do end up in a career that you don't like, you can always try change careers and find something new--it may not be easy, but people do it all the time. Don't feel like you are bound into one thing for the rest of your life. We are constantly learning and growing and our careers reflect that.
I wish you all the best in the future and please don't stress too much about your future career! Work hard in school, but also enjoy being young and spending time with your family and friends while you are still young!
James Kang
Management Consultant
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
James’s Answer
Hello Trystin,
Firstly, I want you to pause, inhale deeply, and find solace in the realization that you're not required to have all the answers immediately. Remember, this is your unique journey, and whether it takes a few job experiences or even hundreds to discover your true calling, there's absolutely no need to worry. I wholeheartedly encourage you to continue your exploration with an open mind and heart.
In the early stages of my career, one strategy I found particularly beneficial was engaging in conversations with professionals already active in the field or subject area I was curious about. Understanding their day-to-day activities and responsibilities provided me with invaluable insights. I strongly recommend you try this approach as well.
Firstly, I want you to pause, inhale deeply, and find solace in the realization that you're not required to have all the answers immediately. Remember, this is your unique journey, and whether it takes a few job experiences or even hundreds to discover your true calling, there's absolutely no need to worry. I wholeheartedly encourage you to continue your exploration with an open mind and heart.
In the early stages of my career, one strategy I found particularly beneficial was engaging in conversations with professionals already active in the field or subject area I was curious about. Understanding their day-to-day activities and responsibilities provided me with invaluable insights. I strongly recommend you try this approach as well.
Sarah Reyes
Advanced Student Support Specialist
6
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
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