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How important is finding a backup plan if you already have a solid and realistic plan?

I intend to go to college for psychology and become a children's therapist. Do I really need a backup?

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Heather’s Answer

Hello Veronika,

It's always a smart move to have a backup plan, even when you're confident in your primary plan. As you strive to fulfill your passion and work towards your main goal of being a children's therapist, a backup plan can offer you an extra layer of safety and adaptability. Here's why having a Plan B can be beneficial:

Unexpected Events: Life is full of surprises, and sometimes, things happen that could throw your main plan off course. These could be personal issues, shifts in the job market, or sudden opportunities. A backup plan means you're prepared with other options if your main plan doesn't pan out.

New Discoveries: As you learn and grow, you might find new interests or chances that match your abilities and values. A backup plan gives you the freedom to look into different career paths or educational routes that could be equally satisfying and rewarding.

Job Market Trends: Being a children's therapist is a commendable and worthwhile career, but it's crucial to think about the demand for professionals in this area. A backup plan in a related field or a different part of psychology can open up more job possibilities if there are few opportunities in your preferred field.

Broad Skill Set: Working on a backup plan can help you build a wide range of skills that could be useful in many career paths. For instance, studying psychology could also equip you with communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, all of which are useful in many jobs.

Less Stress: A backup plan can help ease the stress and pressure that comes with chasing your main goal. Knowing you have other options can give you peace of mind and allow you to concentrate more on achieving your main goal.

In the end, whether you decide to create a backup plan is a personal choice that depends on your situation, goals, and how comfortable you are with taking risks. While it's crucial to follow your passion and work hard towards your main plan, having a backup plan can give you extra confidence and flexibility as you navigate your career journey.
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Caroline’s Answer

Your ambition is admirable, and I wholeheartedly cheer you on in your pursuit! Remember, though, it's always wise to have a Plan B!

My son, fresh out of school, was filled with dreams of joining the Navy. It took a good nine months post-graduation for him to secure his spot. Regrettably, his youth and inexperience made the rigors of bootcamp overwhelming, leading him to leave after a few short weeks. Without any prior work experience or a backup plan, he found himself in a tough spot upon returning home, having to quickly settle for the first job opportunity that came his way.
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Emma’s Answer

It's fantastic that you've got a plan in place, and I'm rooting for your success! Life can sometimes throw us curveballs that we can't predict or prepare for. That's why having a safety net in the form of a backup plan can be beneficial. The great news is that a psychology degree opens up a world of career paths and opportunities. So, if you ever need to switch gears and lean on your backup plan, you can definitely find something that still aligns with your interests.
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Sarah’s Answer

Embrace the beauty of having an adaptable mindset, understanding that it's entirely fine if your initial plans take a different turn. I once had my heart set on becoming a pastry chef and only applied to two colleges that offered this course. But once I started, I realized it wasn't my true calling. I switched gears after the first semester and decided to chase a business degree instead.

My journey didn't stop there. I discovered a newfound love for libraries and pursued a master's degree in library science. For a decade, I enjoyed being a children's librarian. Now, I'm part of an education technology company. My story is a testament to how life can take unexpected turns from what we initially envision at 18, and yet, everything can still fall into place beautifully.

So, if you begin your psychology courses and find them fascinating, that's fantastic! But if you don't, remember, that's perfectly okay too! The world is full of diverse degree options waiting for you to explore.

A smart approach would be to check if your preferred college offers other degrees that might pique your interest. This way, should you decide to change your degree path later, you'll have other exciting options to consider.
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Chloe’s Answer

What a fantastic path you're on! Sure, the field might be a bit crowded, but earning a solid degree from college can swing wide many doors for you. Ideally, you'll find yourself in the field you're passionate about, but remember, it's always beneficial to remain open-minded! My own journey led me to a job that didn't directly relate to my degree. Yet, my degree played a crucial role in securing it, and now, I absolutely adore what I do!
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Rachel’s Answer

Hey Veronika! In my experience, career paths are not linear. They're going to be constantly evolving and changing. So I wouldn't think of it as needing a backup (as long as you keep enjoying what you're doing!)...I'd focus on being adaptable and keeping your eyes open to your skillset and interests AND the types of jobs that are hiring. Becoming a children's therapist is an incredible goal! I have a friend who was unsure of whether not she wanted to that in college, and she is just getting fully into it 10 years later and loves it. But it was a lot of work to get there. She ended up with a variety of part-time and loosely-related jobs as she was going through her many years of education -- working in coffee shops, in retail and in after-school tutoring programs -- all to be financially supported while spending the money on her education. That's a good test of if it's worth it! Don't go in blindly, see how much education you'd need to get a job as a children's psychologist and then determine if that seems worth it still. If it does, keep pursuing it! Just be open to other income streams in the meantime! I'd also suggest reaching out to others in this job to get a sense of their journey.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Veronika,

Even with a robust and practical main plan in place, it's crucial not to overlook the value of a backup plan. It serves as an extra safety net, providing you with added flexibility, particularly when facing unpredictable situations. For example, unexpected events like financial struggles, health complications, or shifts in job opportunities might necessitate a change in your original plans. A backup plan can help cushion the potential adverse effects of such occurrences.

In your situation, your primary plan to earn a psychology degree and become a children's therapist is well-considered. However, a backup plan can bring several advantages:

Financial Security: If you run into unforeseen costs or financial hurdles during your education or career, a backup plan can offer financial stability. For instance, you might think about acquiring certifications or licenses in related areas that could provide a higher income potential or more job opportunities.
Adaptability: The employment market and economic climate can fluctuate. A backup plan equips you to adapt to these shifts and investigate alternative career routes that might be more secure or profitable than your main plan. For example, you might contemplate earning a degree or certification in a field like counseling or social work, which typically have strong job growth forecasts and varied job opportunities.
Personal Growth: A backup plan can also present chances for personal development and exploration beyond your main career ambitions. Seeking further education or training in a different field can enhance your skills and widen your professional prospects.
Contingency Planning: Lastly, a backup plan is vital for contingency planning in the event of unexpected circumstances like emergencies, accidents, or illnesses that might hinder your progress with your main plan either temporarily or permanently. In such scenarios, a backup plan can help ensure that you stay on the path to achieving your long-term goals despite the obstacles.

In conclusion, while a robust main plan is key to reaching your career aspirations, having a backup plan is equally vital to offer flexibility and protection against unforeseen events or changes in circumstances. By taking into account various factors like financial security, adaptability, personal growth, and contingency planning, you can devise an effective backup plan that not only aligns with your main career goals but also provides valuable benefits along the journey.

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MAY GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
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Sarimar’s Answer

Hello Veronica,

First off, I must commend you for having a clear focus on what you want to achieve, it's a fantastic beginning. Think of having a backup plan as having car insurance. You don't anticipate a car accident, but you're relieved to have it when the unexpected happens.

As you embark on your college journey, you'll likely start with your core classes before diving into your career-specific courses. But remember, it's okay if these courses don't live up to your expectations. Keeping an open mind to other interests you may have is never a bad idea.

Choosing courses that are relevant to multiple majors could be a good strategy, just in case you decide to switch majors along the way. Life is like a flowing river, not a static rock. It's entirely normal for your desires and goals to change significantly over the next 5-10 years.
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