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Your career has a big impact on your future. And, when it comes to deciding on your career goals and job aspirations, making these big life decisions can sometimes be stressful.
Of course, it’s perfectly okay to not know or feel a little unsure about what to study in school and which career path to take. What industry should I explore? Do I enjoy working with people, animals, data, or books? Will I find a job after graduating from college?
Before deciding what career path to pursue, carefully consider your options and do the following:
1. Ask Yourself the Right Questions
One of the best ways to cut through career stress is to think about yourself for a minute. That’s right, you. What is your personality type, and what type of work setting best suits you? Perhaps you’re a strategic problem-solver who thrives in a busy, hectic work environment. Or, maybe you’re a laid-back creative type who prefers a more behind-the-scenes approach in the workplace.
Of course, self-awareness is a key component of success. In other words, be inquisitive, ask yourself the right questions, and take some notes to help find the right answers. Indeed, the answers you uncover may point you in the right direction when it comes to your career.
Your career has a big impact on your future. And, when it comes to deciding on your career goals and job aspirations, making these big life decisions can sometimes be stressful. Before deciding what career path to pursue, carefully consider your options.Click To Tweet2. Explore Going Back to School
Once you’ve determined the career goals you want to achieve, the next step is making an education plan. Say you have a keen interest in technology and want to pursue a career in cybersecurity. Due to the increased reliance on computer systems, the Internet, and wireless network standards in just about every facet of life, perhaps pursuing a career in cybersecurity makes sense and is in your wheelhouse.
In that vein, dedicate time to earn an online cyber security certificate that will better inform you on how to safeguard these systems. Moreover, you’ll learn about current practices and relevant threat assessment theories. Certifications can also help make you more marketable to potential employers, which is key to pursuing a job in cybersecurity.
3. Develop a Good Work-Life Balance
Juggling busy work schedules, school demands, and parenthood is no easy task. Sometimes it feels like there isn’t enough time in one day and the things you enjoy doing take a back seat. When our work-life balance is off, our stress level inevitably increases. The good news is that there is a simple hack you can implement into your busy schedule to balance your life: better time management.
The research upon which this book is based shows overwhelmingly that people want satisfaction much more than they want balance.
Take note of how you spend your day. Keep a log of what you do and for how long. Every task, practice, and behavior should be noted. Once everything is down on paper, it becomes easier to identify productive and counterproductive habits. Phase out the ones that eat up your time or don’t give you anything back in return. Then, reassess your daily schedule and use that free time to streamline your day. Ultimately, you’ll feel better and more easily be able to manage your day-to-day affairs.
4. Find a Mentor
If you’re struggling with career-related choices or finding it difficult on which professional step to take next, then perhaps it’s time to seek out a mentor. Having a productive and meaningful relationship with someone with deep knowledge and whom you can trust is a great remedy for people in many facets of life, especially when it comes to career choice and readiness. In particular, the objective mind of any good mentor can help point things out in your life that you cannot or choose not to see firsthand. Their experience will guide you along in your pursuits, and you’ll be able to make clearer choices about finding a new profession or industry.
Following the Roadmap to Success
Take a deep breath and relax. Throughout recent history, people have always been faced with the challenge of what career to pursue and what they need to do to get there. Don’t get overly stressed about it, though. Just follow the road map left by the millions of people who have gone through the same life experiences. Proven methods like time management will create a better work-life balance. Moreover, be inquisitive, check in with yourself, and ask questions on a daily basis. Before long, you’ll have the information and know-how to make the right career choices.
