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How would you advice someone who does not have specific talents on their choice of career?
I'm 14 years old and I have not yet determined on the best career-choice in the future. How can I determine the best option for me even with less passion towards others?
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11 answers
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DAve’s Answer
No need to stress. It's likely that you'll have numerous careers throughout your life. So, step out and immerse yourself in the world around you, gaining experiences along the way.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Lucy!
Discovering Your Ideal Career Path Even Without Obvious Talents
Embarking on a career journey can seem daunting, particularly if you believe you lack specific talents or passions. However, remember that talents can be nurtured and passions can evolve over time. Here's an encouraging guide to help you find the perfect career path, even without obvious talents:
1. Self-Reflection and Adventure: Spend time pondering your interests, values, and strengths. Think about the subjects or activities you enjoy and excel at, as well as hobbies or extracurricular activities that bring you joy. Dive into diverse activities and explore various fields to uncover what sparks your interest.
2. Investigate Various Careers: Perform detailed research on careers that resonate with your interests and values. Get to know the skills, education, and qualifications each profession requires. Delve into job descriptions, work environments, salary scales, and growth prospects to gain a clearer picture of what each career involves.
3. Seek Wisdom: Reach out to reliable adults like parents, teachers, mentors, or career counsellors who can offer guidance and support during this journey. They can provide invaluable insights, share their own journeys, and help you explore career options that may align with your skills and interests.
4. Acquire Real-World Experience: Consider internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in fields you're interested in. This will give you practical experience and help you decide if a specific career is the right match for you.
5. Transferable Skills: Identify your transferable skills - these are skills that can be used in various professions. These might include communication skills, problem-solving capabilities, leadership traits, and adaptability. Recognizing these skills can broaden your career options.
6. Networking: Create a network of professionals in diverse fields through networking events or online platforms. Connect with individuals who can offer valuable insights into their careers and provide advice on navigating the job market.
7. Anticipate Future Trends: Research current and future trends in the job market. Identify growing industries with a demand for skilled professionals. This can aid you in making informed decisions about career paths that may offer greater opportunities in the future.
8. Maintain an Open Mind: Approach your career exploration with an open mind. Be ready to step outside your comfort zone and explore new possibilities. The ideal career option might not be immediately obvious, but through exploration and self-discovery, you can reveal hidden talents and passions.
Remember, feeling uncertain at your age is completely normal, and it's perfectly okay to change your mind as you gain more experience and knowledge. The key is to stay proactive, continue learning, and remain open to new opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Career Guidance Resources:
The Balance Careers: A comprehensive website offering career advice, job search tips, and information on various professions.
CareerOneStop: An online resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor offering career exploration tools, occupation profiles, and skills assessment.
Indeed Career Guide: A vast collection of articles covering various career-related topics, including guidance on choosing a career path and exploring different industries.
ADDENDUM
Have a look at my BIO for hints in nutrition
May God Bless You,
James.
Discovering Your Ideal Career Path Even Without Obvious Talents
Embarking on a career journey can seem daunting, particularly if you believe you lack specific talents or passions. However, remember that talents can be nurtured and passions can evolve over time. Here's an encouraging guide to help you find the perfect career path, even without obvious talents:
1. Self-Reflection and Adventure: Spend time pondering your interests, values, and strengths. Think about the subjects or activities you enjoy and excel at, as well as hobbies or extracurricular activities that bring you joy. Dive into diverse activities and explore various fields to uncover what sparks your interest.
2. Investigate Various Careers: Perform detailed research on careers that resonate with your interests and values. Get to know the skills, education, and qualifications each profession requires. Delve into job descriptions, work environments, salary scales, and growth prospects to gain a clearer picture of what each career involves.
3. Seek Wisdom: Reach out to reliable adults like parents, teachers, mentors, or career counsellors who can offer guidance and support during this journey. They can provide invaluable insights, share their own journeys, and help you explore career options that may align with your skills and interests.
4. Acquire Real-World Experience: Consider internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in fields you're interested in. This will give you practical experience and help you decide if a specific career is the right match for you.
5. Transferable Skills: Identify your transferable skills - these are skills that can be used in various professions. These might include communication skills, problem-solving capabilities, leadership traits, and adaptability. Recognizing these skills can broaden your career options.
6. Networking: Create a network of professionals in diverse fields through networking events or online platforms. Connect with individuals who can offer valuable insights into their careers and provide advice on navigating the job market.
7. Anticipate Future Trends: Research current and future trends in the job market. Identify growing industries with a demand for skilled professionals. This can aid you in making informed decisions about career paths that may offer greater opportunities in the future.
8. Maintain an Open Mind: Approach your career exploration with an open mind. Be ready to step outside your comfort zone and explore new possibilities. The ideal career option might not be immediately obvious, but through exploration and self-discovery, you can reveal hidden talents and passions.
Remember, feeling uncertain at your age is completely normal, and it's perfectly okay to change your mind as you gain more experience and knowledge. The key is to stay proactive, continue learning, and remain open to new opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Career Guidance Resources:
The Balance Careers: A comprehensive website offering career advice, job search tips, and information on various professions.
CareerOneStop: An online resource sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor offering career exploration tools, occupation profiles, and skills assessment.
Indeed Career Guide: A vast collection of articles covering various career-related topics, including guidance on choosing a career path and exploring different industries.
ADDENDUM
Have a look at my BIO for hints in nutrition
May God Bless You,
James.
Updated
Joan’s Answer
Hi! First, I think it is totally ok to not know what you want to do for a career at 14 (and even later!:) I would recommend asking people you admire how they found their career path and do a lot of reading, look into articles about careers and career paths - you might find some inspiration there. In addition, think about goals you want to achieve and activities you enjoy or are passionate about - look into careers in those areas. You never know what you might find!
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Dive into books and discover new worlds! Seize the opportunities provided by your high school or local community to delve into different professions. Community colleges offer a golden chance to gain practical experience in potential career paths. Don't rush to limit your choices early in life. Explore the vast sea of options, consider what truly sparks your interest and passion, and concentrate on establishing a strong educational base. Opportunities will naturally come knocking when you show up eagerly and passionately.
Updated
Mary-Catherine’s Answer
I totally understand how you are feeling! It can be overwhelming to think about what you may be interested in/excel in 5, 10, 20 years down the road and the truth is you never know what can happen one year to the next. Spend this early time exploring many different hobbies, reading plenty of books, engaging in what truly excites you and the rest will come from there. The more you learn about various industries and opportunities in the world, the more likely you are to get drawn to a specific area and the truth is, that may change once or many times. Do not put pressure on yourself now but give yourself some grace and allow yourself to take in the world and you may stumble upon something that really excites you. Good luck in your journey.
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Lucy,
As one who did not take full advantage of everything HS had to offer, I encourage you to explore! Beyond the basic academics, take an accounting class, art, drafting, world literature, etc.
Also take a solid academic load.
The interesting thing about the world of work is there are "industries" and "occupations." So, there is something for everyone and you can move around a little. You don't have to stay in one place for eternity! For example, let's say you want to work in the Oil and Gas Industry. You could be a geologist, a welder, a pipe inspector, an inventory specialist/forklift operator, Administrative Office Manager, etc. So let's say you are a welder. You decide you don't like working for Oil and Gas. You could go work someplace else. Or, let's say you want to stay in Oil and Gas, but no longer want to be a welder. You could probably cross train into inventory control.
You will develop transferrable skills in any job - skills you can use in your next job. You will learn how to market yourself and promote these transferrable skills in your resume. So, your career is not "locked in" by a decision made in HS!
As one who did not take full advantage of everything HS had to offer, I encourage you to explore! Beyond the basic academics, take an accounting class, art, drafting, world literature, etc.
Also take a solid academic load.
The interesting thing about the world of work is there are "industries" and "occupations." So, there is something for everyone and you can move around a little. You don't have to stay in one place for eternity! For example, let's say you want to work in the Oil and Gas Industry. You could be a geologist, a welder, a pipe inspector, an inventory specialist/forklift operator, Administrative Office Manager, etc. So let's say you are a welder. You decide you don't like working for Oil and Gas. You could go work someplace else. Or, let's say you want to stay in Oil and Gas, but no longer want to be a welder. You could probably cross train into inventory control.
You will develop transferrable skills in any job - skills you can use in your next job. You will learn how to market yourself and promote these transferrable skills in your resume. So, your career is not "locked in" by a decision made in HS!
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Hi Lucy, it's perfectly okay to feel unsure about your future at 14 - it's a feeling many of us can relate to. The secret at this point is to embark on a journey of exploration and self-understanding. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in identifying your career path:
1. Dive into different activities and hobbies to uncover what truly sparks your interest.
2. Reflect on the skills you enjoy using, such as problem-solving or communication. These could hint at suitable career paths. Jot them down, take a break, then revisit your list to see if you still agree with your choices.
3. Utilize this platform, along with others, to connect with adults, mentors, teachers, or career counselors. They can provide valuable insights and guidance.
4. Seek out hands-on experience through internships or volunteering to discover what truly aligns with your passion.
5. Allocate time to research various careers, industries, and professions. This will help you make well-informed decisions about your future.
6. Reflect on your personal values and long-term aspirations to ensure your career choices align with what you hold dear.
7. Remember, career paths often zigzag rather than follow a straight line. It's perfectly fine not to have everything figured out. Stay open to adjusting and refining your choices as you learn more about yourself.
Remember, it's natural to feel unsure, and it's likely that your interests will change as you grow. Embrace the journey of self-discovery, be patient with yourself, and know that your future career will gradually take shape through a blend of self-awareness and life experiences.
1. Dive into different activities and hobbies to uncover what truly sparks your interest.
2. Reflect on the skills you enjoy using, such as problem-solving or communication. These could hint at suitable career paths. Jot them down, take a break, then revisit your list to see if you still agree with your choices.
3. Utilize this platform, along with others, to connect with adults, mentors, teachers, or career counselors. They can provide valuable insights and guidance.
4. Seek out hands-on experience through internships or volunteering to discover what truly aligns with your passion.
5. Allocate time to research various careers, industries, and professions. This will help you make well-informed decisions about your future.
6. Reflect on your personal values and long-term aspirations to ensure your career choices align with what you hold dear.
7. Remember, career paths often zigzag rather than follow a straight line. It's perfectly fine not to have everything figured out. Stay open to adjusting and refining your choices as you learn more about yourself.
Remember, it's natural to feel unsure, and it's likely that your interests will change as you grow. Embrace the journey of self-discovery, be patient with yourself, and know that your future career will gradually take shape through a blend of self-awareness and life experiences.
Updated
Harry’s Answer
Hi Lucy. I understand your frustration but don't get discouraged. You are too young to worry. Believe it or not - all will work out. Begin with what you love doing. Google opportunities with that. You might be surprised with where it could lead you. Also remember, this decision that you make is not your last - not far from it - it is merely the beginning. I know it is too early, but eventually you will look back and marvel at the many accomplishments that you have achieved.
How about taking an aptitude test with your guidance counselor? It will might reveal highlight talents and interests you were not aware of. That might be your start. But again it is just the first step.
A friend of mine got his degree as a music major in college. Went to the school job interviews and joined a financial institution as an financial investment advisor. Stayed with them his whole life and loved it. Look at the adults around you. Where have their careers led them? I am sure not all are doing what they initially started out to do. and not all of them might be entirely satisfied. But again don't get discouraged. Keep looking forward for the next opportunity. I am sure you will find something interesting. Just follow your passions and desires.
How about taking an aptitude test with your guidance counselor? It will might reveal highlight talents and interests you were not aware of. That might be your start. But again it is just the first step.
A friend of mine got his degree as a music major in college. Went to the school job interviews and joined a financial institution as an financial investment advisor. Stayed with them his whole life and loved it. Look at the adults around you. Where have their careers led them? I am sure not all are doing what they initially started out to do. and not all of them might be entirely satisfied. But again don't get discouraged. Keep looking forward for the next opportunity. I am sure you will find something interesting. Just follow your passions and desires.
Updated
Heena’s Answer
Hello Lucy,
I would suggest you 3 things to start which can help you identify and get close to your answer.
1. Take an aptitude test which can help you find the fields suitable to your interest. At age 14, we do not know all the job opportunities and market requirements which can be interesting to work for us. These tests can help us with handful of industry and jobs which we can further assess, read about. Few tests are free, The Motivational Appraisal Personal Potential (MAPP) test or more you can find in the link https://novoresume.com/career-blog/career-aptitude-test
2. If you have inclination towards reading and curious about certain areas like Teaching, medical, fashion industry, Waste Management, languages etc or hobbies, try to pick 3 areas and read about them. Reading give us indepth view. Read about its origin and market and expected future market. Look for industry leaders in that particular topic and further read about those personality. This is a practical way of identifying a role model if we do not have any.
3. Be persistent to look for more and more information. This is a crucial topic for life. We might find it overwhelming or boring or might look for a short cut answer but the best approach is to know maximum information, and then look further for advise.
This will make you knowledgeable and very confident in your approach. This will make you outshine the rest in school, college and job interviews later in life.
Good luck, appreciate your interest at right age for your career.
Take a Aptitude test
I would suggest you 3 things to start which can help you identify and get close to your answer.
1. Take an aptitude test which can help you find the fields suitable to your interest. At age 14, we do not know all the job opportunities and market requirements which can be interesting to work for us. These tests can help us with handful of industry and jobs which we can further assess, read about. Few tests are free, The Motivational Appraisal Personal Potential (MAPP) test or more you can find in the link https://novoresume.com/career-blog/career-aptitude-test
2. If you have inclination towards reading and curious about certain areas like Teaching, medical, fashion industry, Waste Management, languages etc or hobbies, try to pick 3 areas and read about them. Reading give us indepth view. Read about its origin and market and expected future market. Look for industry leaders in that particular topic and further read about those personality. This is a practical way of identifying a role model if we do not have any.
3. Be persistent to look for more and more information. This is a crucial topic for life. We might find it overwhelming or boring or might look for a short cut answer but the best approach is to know maximum information, and then look further for advise.
This will make you knowledgeable and very confident in your approach. This will make you outshine the rest in school, college and job interviews later in life.
Good luck, appreciate your interest at right age for your career.
Heena recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Jassiel’s Answer
Hello Lucy!
We totally get that you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, but remember, you've got plenty of time to navigate through this! I'm confident that in a few more years, things will look a lot clearer.
Welcome aboard the exciting journey of discovering your career!
Start by thinking about the things you love doing or subjects that spark your interest, regardless of whether they're directly linked to a career or not.
Take some time to explore various industries, roles, and career paths. This will give you a broader view of all the possibilities out there.
Who knows? You might stumble upon something that really catches your eye.
Best of luck, Lucy! I have no doubt that you'll find your way!
We totally get that you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, but remember, you've got plenty of time to navigate through this! I'm confident that in a few more years, things will look a lot clearer.
Welcome aboard the exciting journey of discovering your career!
Start by thinking about the things you love doing or subjects that spark your interest, regardless of whether they're directly linked to a career or not.
Take some time to explore various industries, roles, and career paths. This will give you a broader view of all the possibilities out there.
Who knows? You might stumble upon something that really catches your eye.
Best of luck, Lucy! I have no doubt that you'll find your way!
Updated
Kathleen’s Answer
Hi Lucy -
I'd say give yourself time and space. Be open and receptive to new ideas that are outside of our comfort zone. Sometimes even when we think we know what our career path may look and feel like, there is always room for course corrections! Go down and explore career paths outside of your comfort zone. When in the career field, this will look and feel like a lateral move into a different path, yet the same pay range. You shall gain experience which is invaluable that shall help you along your career path!
I'd say give yourself time and space. Be open and receptive to new ideas that are outside of our comfort zone. Sometimes even when we think we know what our career path may look and feel like, there is always room for course corrections! Go down and explore career paths outside of your comfort zone. When in the career field, this will look and feel like a lateral move into a different path, yet the same pay range. You shall gain experience which is invaluable that shall help you along your career path!