How to Choose the Right Career Path
Are you in the midst of figuring what to do in the future? Let us give you some career advice!
If you’re still in school and think that it’s still too early for you to be thinking about these things…well think again. Our I Am GiftedTM school holiday programmes often encourage students to plan up to 10 years ahead into the future because you should always keep the end in mine!
Deciding on a career path is not as simple as going to Jobstreet SG or Jobscentral and searching for the most popular choices…but don’t worry! We are here to guide you.
These are 5 questions you should ask yourself if you are not sure what you want for your future:
1. What are your interests?
There’s no need to worry if you can’t think of anything specific that excites you enough that you would want to spend the next few years of your life focusing on. Instead, think of something general that you enjoy…this could range from writing, to meeting new people. This should help you start to narrow down your choices. You can also do a personality test online to see what sort of career future would suit you! Here is one by SkillsFuture SG that we recommend!
2. What experiences have you gotten thus far?
Every small or big event that has happened in your life has shaped the person you are today. Your education background, internships, and past work experiences should influence your career choice. This will help you determine how comfortable you will be in your new job and how quickly you can get the hang of things! Taking some time to reflect on all your past experiences can help you decide what career future is right for you.
3. What are the job conditions?
Other than your interest in the job, you should also think about practical considerations such as salary, location, and work hours. Do you want to work locally or internationally? Are you in it for the money? Can you stay up late and work long shifts on the weekends? These other matters will affect how happy you are with your career choice. But even then you should always keep in mind that there’s no such thing as a perfect job! Being too picky will reduce your career choices…
4. What will you get out of this job?
Other than a salary, there are many things your job can offer you! Be it a learning experience, a chance to meet other like-minded individuals, or a way to give back to your community, every job will provide you with these takeaways that will help with your personal growth. Stay positive and always think of your career as a series of learning opportunities!
5. Have you made a career action plan?
One way to help you decide on a career path is to make a 5 or 10 year plan for your future. It may seem daunting now, but planning ahead can give you a good idea of what your likes and dislikes are. Include any short-term and long-term goals, and what you will need to achieve them! While you’re planning, you will start to realise what preferences you have and how realistic some of your desires may be! Download our sample career action plan template to get started now!
If you’re interested in self-improvement, check out our other articles How to be Successful in the 21st Century? and 6 Tips to Promote Growth Mindset.
Now that you have a better idea of how to plan your career path, we hope you will be able to pursue your passions and achieve success!
“If you find a job you love, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.”
