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what can i do to be on the right career path?

i do not know what to do to be on the right career path, what can i do?

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Aman’s Answer

Hi Jenifer,

It's great that you're seeking to find the right career path! The first step I recommend is to really reflect on what you enjoy doing. Have you thought about taking any career assessments? Something like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator or the Holland Code (RIASEC) can give you insights into your personality and how it aligns with certain professions.

Once you have a better understanding, start exploring fields that resonate with you. For instance, if you discover you have a knack for creativity, consider diving into marketing or graphic design. There are often local workshops or online courses that can introduce you to these areas, like those offered by General Assembly or even local community colleges in Walnut Creek.

Another fantastic step is to network. Attend local meet-ups or seminars related to your interests. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide valuable insights and possibly even mentorship opportunities. Apps like Meetup or Eventbrite can help you find local events to connect with like-minded individuals.

Finally, don’t hesitate to volunteer or intern in areas you’re curious about. This hands-on experience can be invaluable in deciding what you want to pursue seriously. URL-based platforms like VolunteerMatch can connect you with local organizations where you can gain experience and network simultaneously. Remember, it’s about discovering what you love and embracing the journey!

Best of luck, Jenifer!

Take care,
Aman
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Christian Evelyn’s Answer

One of the fun ways of finding out what career path to take is by taking a personality test. There are certain careers that work better for some personality types. Some career centers at colleges have these assessments. Typically through Myers Briggs Personality Test. If you're not in school or a student, this is perfectly fine. There's also the Enneagram. About 15 years ago, I took both as a college student and can say that I've definitely ended up in a career that feels fulfilling. It doesn't always seem like roses, but everyday feels like the the first day of work. It's exciting. Something new everyday.
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Eddy’s Answer

Great question! To find the right career path, it’s important to start by assessing your skills, strengths, and passions. Take time to reflect on what you’re good at, whether it’s in business or the creative field, and consider what excites you most. Think about the values you want in a career, such as flexibility, security, or the opportunity to express yourself. Once you have a clearer sense of these factors, explore both fields further by seeking internships, part-time jobs, or even volunteering opportunities that align with your interests. This hands-on experience can help you understand what fits best. Additionally, start side projects, whether it’s creating content or experimenting with a small business idea. This will allow you to dip your toes into both worlds and learn more without fully committing to one just yet. Set short-term goals to guide your progress, whether it’s taking acting classes or learning business fundamentals, and keep evaluating what feels right as you grow.
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Sara’s Answer

If you're unsure about your career path, here’s what you can do to get on the right track:

Explore Your Interests: Try different hobbies and activities to see what excites you. Take classes or workshops to get hands-on experience.

Research Careers: Look into careers that align with your interests. Take career quizzes to see which jobs might suit your strengths.

Gain Experience: Try internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in areas you’re interested in. This will help you understand if it’s the right fit.

Develop Skills: Focus on building skills like communication and teamwork. Learn specific skills for fields you’re interested in, like design or cooking.

Set Goals: Create short-term goals to help you move forward. This could include taking a course or connecting with someone in your field.

Seek Mentorship: Find a mentor or talk to a career counselor who can offer guidance and advice.

Stay Open: It’s okay to change your mind as you learn more about yourself and different careers.

Keep exploring, gaining experience, and stay flexible. The right career path will become clearer over time!
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Steward "Tony"’s Answer

Jenifer, Figure Out What "You Love Doing!" I Mean LOOOOVE DOOING!
Can You "Make A Living From Doing It" At Some Capacity?
Are There Industries That Demand "That Talent" Available To You.
Would You Be Able "To Chase That Love" Elsewhere.

You know that so many people go through the process of acquiring a degree in this & in that, only to find that choice made when young was not the dream profession of an older adult dreams. But they got the paper though? put it in a frame and everything. Sounds crazy right?

So my suggestion above makes sense at your undecided age. What do you love first, then second, even third?
Because if you work in a business or as a business owner in and around stuff you love doing anyway, then you would actually never work a day in your life.

Isn't That Something To Look Forward To?
No One's Last Words Were "I should have spent more time at the office" so enjoy your life and the many who will also around you.
God Bless You.
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Misha’s Answer

Hi Jenifer! Great question, it can definitely seem daunting and overwhelming to explore and learn about all the potential careers out there. Identify what gives you energy - what type of tasks do you find yourself looking forward to? What types of subjects do you find yourself seeking out more information independently? Equally as important, know what drains you and what is more of barrier to overcome.

A great activity I always recommend is doing a values exercise: Brene Brown has a great list/exercise you can follow here: https://brenebrown.com/resources/dare-to-lead-list-of-values/

Know what your non-negotiables are. And this may change overtime as your priorities change! Thank is okay, this is not meant to be a one and done exercise, check in with yourself regularly, your career may takes twists and turns and most likely will not be linear, be open to new opportunities based on where you are at in life and what is important to you, at first it may be something like money or location, and then it may be flexibility with your schedule or a mission driven organization.

Always lean into a growth mindset! Learn through conversations (informational interviews), hands-on experience (shadowing, internships, etc.), or through rotational/temporary placements. As you learn more about what interests you, identify those skillsets and knowledge and start to upskill in those areas.

Self-awareness is going to be key throughout the process. Be honest with yourself about what you want, not what you think other people want from you or what you think society wants. Make sure you are making decisions for you, and remember, it's okay if that changes over time!

Misha recommends the following next steps:

Make an energy driver list of tasks, activities, and topics
Search and explore which careers might overlap
Have conversations with professionals and start upskilling
Make SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals to help keep you on track throughout the process
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Eunice’s Answer

Great question! Reflect on your interests, values, strengths, and weaknesses. Consider taking career assessments or personality tests to gain insights into what might suit you best. I recommend getting the book Discover Your CliftonStrengths" by Don Clifton. You can read the whole book or skip to the test. In the back of the book, you will have an access code where you can take the test for free. There are other free personality questionnaires online that you can do as well. Explore different fields and industries. Read about various roles, job descriptions, and growth potential especially in your area/city. Be open to new opportunities and experiences. Sometimes the right path may not be the one you initially envisioned. Listen to your gut feelings about what feels right for you. Passion and fulfillment are key to long-term career satisfaction as opposed to jumping to a career or job for the money.
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Deeshani’s Answer

To get on the right career path, start by exploring your interests, strengths, and values. Take time to think about what excites you—what activities or subjects do you enjoy? Once you have a better idea of what you’re passionate about, research careers that align with those interests.

Internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in fields you're curious about can give you hands-on experience and help you make connections. You can also take courses or certifications to build relevant skills.

Networking is important too—talk to professionals in different fields to learn about their experiences. It’s okay to not have everything figured out right away. Keep exploring, stay curious, and don't be afraid to adjust your course as you learn more about yourself and the opportunities out there.
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Marylou’s Answer

All of the above.

If you work at what you love, you will never ‘work’ a day in your life.

I’ve been very fortunate to have done so.

Carry On!
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Dra Ana Carolina’s Answer

Hi Jenifer! Choosing the right career path can feel overwhelming, especially when people often say things like, "If you’re good at math, you should study engineering," or "If you like to draw, you should be an architect." The truth is, choosing a career is a big decision, and it's okay not to be completely sure at first.

To get a clearer idea, I recommend doing volunteer work or shadowing professionals in fields that interest you. It’s a great way to get a feel for what different careers are actually like. You could also start by making a list of your skills, strengths, and interests. Think about what type of work environment you’d enjoy—do you prefer an office setting, or would you like a job that involves interacting with people?

Taking small steps like these can help you gain insights and make a more informed decision about your career path. Remember, it’s a journey, and it’s okay to explore different options along the way!
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Sri Samhitha’s Answer

Hey Hi , list out things which you love to do with out getting bored for long time , check you wanted to choose that as your career or not..
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Maura’s Answer

That's normal! The best thing you can do right now is be open to exploring different avenues. There's a saying- "you can't be what you can't see" so starting to explore and learn more about different fields and options out there can help open your eyes to different possibilities. Some you may not like, and that's okay, you can rule them out! But some you might! Some ways to do that exploring: chatting with family friends and neighbors to learn about their day to day work, volunteering in the community, attending career fairs and chatting with folks, doing some research online.
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Brooke’s Answer

Finding the right career path is a personal journey, and there’s no single answer that fits everyone. Start by exploring what excites you and makes you lose track of time—whether it’s a hobby, a subject in school, or an activity that energizes you. Reflect on what you’re naturally good at and what challenges feel rewarding rather than draining. Experiment with different opportunities like clubs, internships, or volunteer work to discover what resonates with you. Along the way, seek feedback from people you trust, as they might see strengths in you that you hadn’t noticed.

When you choose a path that aligns with your passions and strengths, work doesn’t feel like a chore—it becomes something you genuinely enjoy. Doing what you love brings fulfillment, motivation, and a sense of purpose that keeps you going, even during tough times. Remember, your path will look different from everyone else’s, and that’s okay. Focus on what feels right for you, take small steps forward, and don’t be afraid to adjust as you grow and learn more about yourself. Clarity comes with action, so keep exploring!
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Michael’s Answer

That's a great question! Start exploring friends and families roles. See if you would enjoy being in their shoes or not... also start to list out things you are passionate about and you will start to see a common pattern!
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Asemota’s Answer

First question is what do you love to do? What do you see yourself doing?

Then streamline that to the current reality what fits into that description above.

That is what you choose.
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Hana’s Answer

Hello Jenifer,

A way to be in the right career path is to do what you would like to do. What do you find yourself doing when you are alone? Do you like baking? Doing sports? Making crafts?

Pursue what you want to do, and you will find your dream.
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Jennifer’s Answer

To ensure you are on the right career path identify the skills you are great at, the type of work that excites you and the education needed to make it happen. Are you a people person? Look for careers where you will be in person and collaborating with others. If you are not there are many individual contributor and remote type jobs. Really lean into yourself because the more you know about yourself the better chance you have in getting a career you love and can grow in!
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