14 answers
Ty
Student
Rockford, Illinois
1
Question
Asked
1018 views
How can I be able to choose a career when I can't be able to make decisions ?
I find it difficult to explain myself
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14 answers
Carlos Navarro
Lead Technical Architect
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Carlos’s Answer
Every journey in life, including your career, calls for making choices. In fact, the very act of selecting a career path is a decision in itself.
Here's a motivating thought: Seek out what truly ignites your passion, find that activity that brings you joy. Concentrate on that specific area that sparks your interest.
Once you've found your passion, explore the various roles and careers that align with it. There's a vast world of jobs out there, many of which involve routine tasks or require skills other than decision-making. These could be skills like meticulous attention to detail or the ability to follow precise procedures and steps to accomplish a task. Remember, every role is important and can lead to a fulfilling career.
Here's a motivating thought: Seek out what truly ignites your passion, find that activity that brings you joy. Concentrate on that specific area that sparks your interest.
Once you've found your passion, explore the various roles and careers that align with it. There's a vast world of jobs out there, many of which involve routine tasks or require skills other than decision-making. These could be skills like meticulous attention to detail or the ability to follow precise procedures and steps to accomplish a task. Remember, every role is important and can lead to a fulfilling career.
Jeff Sloan
Software engineer - firmware Retired
89
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Ty,
You are definitely not alone in your concerns. Almost everyone has the same fear and trepidation when considering their future.
My first piece of advice is to relax! Take it easy and don't put that kind of pressure on yourself! At this stage, you are trying to figure out what you want to do and how to do it. I am a big supporter of higher education because the first two years of a college education are liberal arts, where you can take many different classes in different disciplines. I started out in biology with the expectation of a marine biology career. I took a computer programming class and found my passion! I spent 38 years in high tech and academia and loved it!
My second bit of advice is that many people change careers down the road so you are not locked into a specific career. In fact, most careers change over time. Many fields constantly evolve and you can always change career paths. I spent most of my career in development at high tech firms. I left to join academia and teach for 13 years . You can make career adjustments along the way so you are never locked in to one specific career.
My most important piece of advice is to relax, figure out what makes you happy and know that you are not locked in for life! Enjoy the journey!
You are definitely not alone in your concerns. Almost everyone has the same fear and trepidation when considering their future.
My first piece of advice is to relax! Take it easy and don't put that kind of pressure on yourself! At this stage, you are trying to figure out what you want to do and how to do it. I am a big supporter of higher education because the first two years of a college education are liberal arts, where you can take many different classes in different disciplines. I started out in biology with the expectation of a marine biology career. I took a computer programming class and found my passion! I spent 38 years in high tech and academia and loved it!
My second bit of advice is that many people change careers down the road so you are not locked into a specific career. In fact, most careers change over time. Many fields constantly evolve and you can always change career paths. I spent most of my career in development at high tech firms. I left to join academia and teach for 13 years . You can make career adjustments along the way so you are never locked in to one specific career.
My most important piece of advice is to relax, figure out what makes you happy and know that you are not locked in for life! Enjoy the journey!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Ty !
Making a decision about a career comes at different times for everyone, so I wouldn't worry too much about that, I can assure you. It will come to you in your own time, and I see by your tag that you are interested in computer technology.
You make decisions every day, whether you realize it or not. You can make decisions. You decide when you wake up, what to eat, what to drink, how to dress, who to hang out with, what entertainment you like, who to visit, what stores to go to. You are already making decisions every day but a decision for a career is not automatic, it takes time and discovery until you feel that spark of inspiration.
One thing that you can do to help you decide is to immerse yourself in employment, volunteer work, reading and doing the activities that you love. You will not be able to make a career choice by thinking about it, you need to take active steps to be involved with things so you can make discoveries and learn more about yourself. Strengthen your skills and work on things you're interested in getting better at. Acknowledge all of the good decisions you have made in your life up till now and just think of the career choice as something that you're giving more time to. We've all had to do it, so you're not alone.
I would suggest that you join a computer group in school or in your community to experiment with new things and any other group would be good, too. Around people. Sharpen your social interaction skills and get to meet people that will be supportive and like-minded. Try not to worry about the career choice, rather test things and you can do that by socialization at school, within your family and in your community. It doesn't have to be difficult.
Make a list of all the things that you like to do and things that you rather not do. Look at the list and see if something speaks to you in the respect of a career. Than start to make some small goals that will lead to larger goals. Write them down and check them off when they are accomplished. This will confirm your progress and you will start to feel more relaxed and involved.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best going forward !
Making a decision about a career comes at different times for everyone, so I wouldn't worry too much about that, I can assure you. It will come to you in your own time, and I see by your tag that you are interested in computer technology.
You make decisions every day, whether you realize it or not. You can make decisions. You decide when you wake up, what to eat, what to drink, how to dress, who to hang out with, what entertainment you like, who to visit, what stores to go to. You are already making decisions every day but a decision for a career is not automatic, it takes time and discovery until you feel that spark of inspiration.
One thing that you can do to help you decide is to immerse yourself in employment, volunteer work, reading and doing the activities that you love. You will not be able to make a career choice by thinking about it, you need to take active steps to be involved with things so you can make discoveries and learn more about yourself. Strengthen your skills and work on things you're interested in getting better at. Acknowledge all of the good decisions you have made in your life up till now and just think of the career choice as something that you're giving more time to. We've all had to do it, so you're not alone.
I would suggest that you join a computer group in school or in your community to experiment with new things and any other group would be good, too. Around people. Sharpen your social interaction skills and get to meet people that will be supportive and like-minded. Try not to worry about the career choice, rather test things and you can do that by socialization at school, within your family and in your community. It doesn't have to be difficult.
Make a list of all the things that you like to do and things that you rather not do. Look at the list and see if something speaks to you in the respect of a career. Than start to make some small goals that will lead to larger goals. Write them down and check them off when they are accomplished. This will confirm your progress and you will start to feel more relaxed and involved.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best going forward !
Skye Playfair Redman
Program Mgmt
1
Answer
Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Skye’s Answer
Hello Ty! Have you tried a personality test to help you work out your preferences, what energises you be what deflates you? Something like the Myers Briggs or 16 Personalities might help you get to know yourself a little better as a gentle first step. Often those tests suggest career paths that suit your strengths based on your results!
take a Myers-Briggs personality Test
Skye recommends the following next steps:
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Choosing a career can indeed be a challenging process, especially when decision-making feels overwhelming. To navigate this, consider breaking down the decision-making process into manageable steps. Start by reflecting on your interests, values, and skills. What activities bring you joy? What aspects of past experiences have you found fulfilling? Engage in self-discovery exercises or career assessments that can provide insights into potential career paths aligned with your strengths and interests.
Additionally, seek guidance from mentors, career counselors, or professionals in fields you find interesting. They can share their experiences and offer valuable advice. Networking and informational interviews can provide valuable insights into various industries and roles.
Remember that it's okay to explore different paths and not have everything figured out immediately. Many people experience uncertainty when choosing a career. Consider taking small steps, such as trying internships, volunteering, or participating in workshops to gain hands-on experience and clarity. Embrace the learning process, and allow yourself the flexibility to adjust your course as you discover more about your preferences and strengths.
If expressing yourself verbally is challenging, consider using alternative methods such as journaling or creating a visual representation of your thoughts and feelings. Writing down your thoughts can help clarify your goals and preferences.
Ultimately, the key is to approach the decision-making process with patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore. It's perfectly normal to feel uncertain, and through exploration and self-reflection, you can gradually gain the clarity needed to make informed career decisions.
Additionally, seek guidance from mentors, career counselors, or professionals in fields you find interesting. They can share their experiences and offer valuable advice. Networking and informational interviews can provide valuable insights into various industries and roles.
Remember that it's okay to explore different paths and not have everything figured out immediately. Many people experience uncertainty when choosing a career. Consider taking small steps, such as trying internships, volunteering, or participating in workshops to gain hands-on experience and clarity. Embrace the learning process, and allow yourself the flexibility to adjust your course as you discover more about your preferences and strengths.
If expressing yourself verbally is challenging, consider using alternative methods such as journaling or creating a visual representation of your thoughts and feelings. Writing down your thoughts can help clarify your goals and preferences.
Ultimately, the key is to approach the decision-making process with patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore. It's perfectly normal to feel uncertain, and through exploration and self-reflection, you can gradually gain the clarity needed to make informed career decisions.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Ty thank you for your question. It is fantastic that you have reached out because I am pretty sure a lot of people feel the way you do. You should know that navigating a career path when faced with difficulty in decision-making and expressing oneself can indeed be challenging, but there are strategies to help you overcome these obstacles:
Firstly, spend some quality time on introspection to discover your interests, values, and strengths. Think about what truly sparks your enthusiasm, as aligning your career with your passions can simplify decision-making.
Next, make use of career assessments and personality tests. These can offer insights into potential career paths that match your preferences and strengths. They can be a great source of guidance for your decision-making journey.
Consider reaching out to your school's career counselors or finding a mentor in your areas of professional interest. Engaging in conversations about your concerns and aspirations can offer invaluable perspectives and guidance, aiding your decision-making process.
Remember, there's no need to rush into making a definitive career choice. Explore internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in various fields. This practical experience can help clarify your preferences and boost your decision-making confidence.
Gradually work on improving your communication skills. My son found it helpful to practice expressing his thoughts and ideas with close friends and family members. As he grew more comfortable, he extended these conversations to a wider audience. You might find a Toastmasters Class (https://www.toastmasters.org/) beneficial.
Consider attending workshops or courses focused on decision-making and effective communication. These can equip you with practical tools and strategies to enhance these skills over time.
Keeping a journal to record your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be a useful reflective tool. It can help identify patterns, preferences, and areas of struggle, ultimately aiding in decision-making.
Finally, try breaking down the career exploration process into smaller, achievable goals. Setting manageable milestones can make the process less daunting and give you a sense of achievement.
Ty, always remember that the journey to finding the right career is unique and it's perfectly okay to take your time. By combining self-reflection, seeking guidance, and gradually developing decision-making and communication skills, you can navigate the career exploration process with greater confidence. Don't hesitate to seek support from those around you and be patient with yourself as you work towards finding clarity in your career path.
Firstly, spend some quality time on introspection to discover your interests, values, and strengths. Think about what truly sparks your enthusiasm, as aligning your career with your passions can simplify decision-making.
Next, make use of career assessments and personality tests. These can offer insights into potential career paths that match your preferences and strengths. They can be a great source of guidance for your decision-making journey.
Consider reaching out to your school's career counselors or finding a mentor in your areas of professional interest. Engaging in conversations about your concerns and aspirations can offer invaluable perspectives and guidance, aiding your decision-making process.
Remember, there's no need to rush into making a definitive career choice. Explore internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in various fields. This practical experience can help clarify your preferences and boost your decision-making confidence.
Gradually work on improving your communication skills. My son found it helpful to practice expressing his thoughts and ideas with close friends and family members. As he grew more comfortable, he extended these conversations to a wider audience. You might find a Toastmasters Class (https://www.toastmasters.org/) beneficial.
Consider attending workshops or courses focused on decision-making and effective communication. These can equip you with practical tools and strategies to enhance these skills over time.
Keeping a journal to record your thoughts, feelings, and experiences can be a useful reflective tool. It can help identify patterns, preferences, and areas of struggle, ultimately aiding in decision-making.
Finally, try breaking down the career exploration process into smaller, achievable goals. Setting manageable milestones can make the process less daunting and give you a sense of achievement.
Ty, always remember that the journey to finding the right career is unique and it's perfectly okay to take your time. By combining self-reflection, seeking guidance, and gradually developing decision-making and communication skills, you can navigate the career exploration process with greater confidence. Don't hesitate to seek support from those around you and be patient with yourself as you work towards finding clarity in your career path.
Verna Campbell
Project Manager
5
Answers
Jersey City, New Jersey
Updated
Verna’s Answer
I completely grasp your worries about pinpointing the right career choice for you. Try asking yourself these questions: 'What activities would you happily engage in without expecting any monetary reward? What subjects or tasks do you excel at or find extremely captivating?' Do you see yourself thriving more in an indoor or outdoor setting? Do you work better autonomously or as part of a group? Sometimes, taking a moment to envision the jobs that would truly bring you joy can be incredibly beneficial.
Once you've done that, it would be a great idea to consult a guidance counselor or a career coach. They can assist in aligning your unique skills and passions with potential career paths. Remember, there's a multitude of careers out there that you might not even know exist, and one of them could be the perfect match for you.
Once you've done that, it would be a great idea to consult a guidance counselor or a career coach. They can assist in aligning your unique skills and passions with potential career paths. Remember, there's a multitude of careers out there that you might not even know exist, and one of them could be the perfect match for you.
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
298
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
It's good that you are thinking about your future choices so seriously and studiously. Decision making is a challenging task for each of us, so not only for you. I am sure you can make the right decision in case of considering all options, their advantages and disadvantages.
To decide your career path, think about your main interests, values, and personality traits. Also consider your skills and abilities.
All the best.
To decide your career path, think about your main interests, values, and personality traits. Also consider your skills and abilities.
All the best.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1512
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you need to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope you this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope you this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Carl Manson Jr., PMP
5G Program Manager - Verizon
76
Answers
Stone Mountain, Georgia
Updated
Carl’s Answer
Hello Ty. You have time. Sometimes people don't choose careers, their careers choose them. Follow your passions and always think of ways to make money off your passion. For example, if you like playing video games, you can find ways to talk about your favorite games, tips about playing games, blog about games. Chances are your passion is the same as others. It's just a matter of trying to find ways to make a living off of what you love. For example, I'm an Atlanta Falcon's fan. That may not be something to be proud of at the moment, but I am. I find many people have blogs and YouTube channels because they share the same interest. Advertisers understand this and they pay money to the people that own these YouTube Channels that discuss this specific content based on the number of subscribers. At this stage of life, you have time to develop your passion into dollars. That is what we call a career. I hope this gave you a little insight.
Linda Schmidt
Sales Manager
2
Answers
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Updated
Linda’s Answer
It is not necessary to have ALL THE ANSWERS now. Many of us are indecisive or have a hard time explaining ourselves. You know, humans are very complex and frequently some of our traits are almost contradictory of other traits. I also know that when you think of the whole wide world, it is overwhelming. So, let's break it into chunks. (They say you eat an elephant a bite at a time, right?) So, here are a few things to consider: Do you want to: 1. Work during the day only or are all times acceptable? 2. Sit at a desk or do more moving around? 3. Interact with strangers or work closely with a small group? 4. Travel or not? 5. Ultimately manage people or be an individual contributor? 6. Progressively have more responsibility or simply do your job? 7. How important is income - do you want more and more progressively or do you want to cover your bills with a little leftover? 8. Are you interested in learning on the job (versus in a classroom)? 9. Do you like school and want to find a higher education or hop into work? 10. Does military service interest you? 11. Is there someone you know who has a cool job - someone who you could ask about daily work and job satisfaction? 12. Are there jobs you ABSOLUTELY want to avoid? 13. Are there fields that really interest you - entertainment, studying the brain, building something, etc? Really dig in a little. You might find more about what you don't want to do than what you really want to do. That is OK because it is PROGRESS. Few people know at a young age what they will be in 20 years time. Give yourself some grace. I don't know if you are spiritual or religious or just like calm - but try to spend 5 minutes every morning before doing other things just organizing your thoughts and what you want to accomplish or avoid today. Writing it down is even better. This helps one understand oneself. I know you will do GREAT THINGS. Have faith in yourself. It will come.
Kristin Scott
Sales
2
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
Discover what truly benefits YOU. This could encompass a multitude of aspects: the type of work setting, the impact of your role, your place within the company structure, the hours you work, the perks you receive, and the financial influence.
Explore different career paths and your personal interests. Consider reaching out to someone in a profession that sparks your curiosity. LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for connecting with individuals who have ties to your area of interest.
Consider the possibility of internships, as they can provide a wider viewpoint.
Determine if there are any qualifications or certifications relevant to your chosen field. If there are, you might find groups where you can engage and deepen your understanding of your preferred field.
Explore different career paths and your personal interests. Consider reaching out to someone in a profession that sparks your curiosity. LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for connecting with individuals who have ties to your area of interest.
Consider the possibility of internships, as they can provide a wider viewpoint.
Determine if there are any qualifications or certifications relevant to your chosen field. If there are, you might find groups where you can engage and deepen your understanding of your preferred field.
Patricia Wright
Financial Analyst
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Start by focusing your search on areas that genuinely pique your interest. Be truthful to yourself about your strong points and areas you need to improve. If you're considering this as your future career, ponder over the jobs that you find intriguing and fun. Make an effort to enhance your strong points and work on your areas of improvement. Don't hesitate to have a chat with a teacher or a professional who can provide more insights into what might be the perfect fit for you.
Sj Dajalos
IT Engineer
3
Answers
Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
Sj’s Answer
Hey Ty,
Just a quick reminder - it's completely normal to feel this way. We've all been there, grappling with tough decisions, especially when it comes to choosing the right career path. It's no easy feat, and the uncertainty can sometimes freeze us in our tracks. But remember, being stuck is the only surefire way to fail. Taking that bold step, even if it might lead to a stumble or two, is what truly drives you forward. It's not about nailing it perfectly on the first attempt, but about taking action, learning from every experience, and tweaking your path as you progress. Embrace the wonderful chaos of growth, and always remember, the magic often happens just outside your comfort zone.
So, don't hold back, take that bold step, and trust that the journey itself will lead you to the right destination. :)
Just a quick reminder - it's completely normal to feel this way. We've all been there, grappling with tough decisions, especially when it comes to choosing the right career path. It's no easy feat, and the uncertainty can sometimes freeze us in our tracks. But remember, being stuck is the only surefire way to fail. Taking that bold step, even if it might lead to a stumble or two, is what truly drives you forward. It's not about nailing it perfectly on the first attempt, but about taking action, learning from every experience, and tweaking your path as you progress. Embrace the wonderful chaos of growth, and always remember, the magic often happens just outside your comfort zone.
So, don't hold back, take that bold step, and trust that the journey itself will lead you to the right destination. :)