Have you ever wondered how some people just ‘know’ what they want to do with their lives? How can they be so sure of their career choice? Do you ask yourself why you don’t have the same answers? Whether a recent school leaver, bored employee, or a man with a mission to settle in a lifelong career; these are all questions you may find yourself pondering.
The truth is, finding a challenging career you love is no easy feat, especially for those who enjoy a spontaneous and carefree life. Considering we spend a majority of our lives working, it’s important to do so with enjoyment and satisfaction, not only for ourselves, but also for the relationships we have with friends and family too.
You may not be the man who has dreamed of their future career since childhood, but it’s never too late to start; in fact, studies show that a vast majority of men retrain, or change careers during their mid-to-late thirties. So how does one go about finding a career that they love?
Letting go of expectations
The first step to finding the perfect career is letting go of expectations. These include factoring your decision around ‘what pays the most’, or the ‘secure option’. Although important, these factors alone will not guarantee a happy, nor fulfilling career. Letting go of of family expectations is also important; never let history dictate your career choice. If you are going to be the only personal trainer, in a family full of lawyers, there is no shame to be had.
Exploring career options
Of course, changing career isn’t as simple as choosing a new employment box to tick; in order to fully explore new career options, there are several steps you should take.
1. Focus on things you love to do
This could be anything – No matter how silly it seems! You might love playing with your dog, exercising or shopping; although not obvious career signs, these could easily lead to jobs built around your own likes, such as; fitness training, personal shopping or even dog grooming! Make a list of all the activities you naturally enjoy.
2. Talk to a career mentor
A mentor will talk you through career options based on your wants, needs and likes. Although you don’t have to follow the exact advice given, discussing options with a professional may help to pinpoint specific strengths and weaknesses. Your mentor will help validate any ideas you have looming, but feel are improbable options, and they will also offer insight on training, qualifications or business start-up - depending on the options you are considering.
3. Make a short list
Now that you have gained a general idea of jobs that fit your personality, it’s time to make a short list. Although there may be many viable options, inevitably you will need to choose just one to start off with. If you need further advice, entrust the help of friends and family to help weigh up the pro’s and con’s of each choice. You may wish to revisit the career advisor to help you compile a formal plan to reach your career goals, this is helpful for those feeling overwhelmed by the process.
4.Enjoy it!
Once the necessary training is completed, the fun begins and one can enjoy the transition into work. Now you can reap rewards from all the careful planning, and finally become the guy with a career he loves!
Bottom line
Love what you do, and do what you love. Life is far to short to be in a miserable job. Enjoy!
Author bio: Jessica frequently blogs about all areas of
fitness and health. She writes for MAX Fitness College, an education provider
in Australia and New Zealand that offers personal trainerqualifications that show you how to become a personaltrainer.
