It is important to choose the right career for happiness, prosperity and general well-being.
Most folks choose wrong careers for whatever reasons and then come home everyday with a long face and a sour temper, already dreading going back to work the next day. Here are a few tips that will help you figure out how to choose the right job:
Make a list of things you’re good at
There was a time when I wanted to be cricketer. I was pretty serious, too. But then I figured I just can’t walk up to a Ranji team coach and ask him to include me in his team. Wanting to play cricket meant working your way up through school games, college tournaments, and then appear for trials to make the cut into a State team and then finally, if you’re lucky and persistent, into the National team. Nothing wrong with the choice, just that I was too late.
One has to be realistic when making this list. Pick things you really like and note down matching skills: writing, sports, science, teaching, literature etc. Supposing you’re a good singer, and would like to make a career in this field, you can start by taking training from vocal coaches, take part in singing contests and slowly get an entry into Bollywood. You can even check with your close group of friends and family as to what they think you could excel at, and what would you suit you best.
Everyone in my family knew from quite early on that I was good in writing, as I was always scribbling stories in my notepad. They were right. I am a published author today and extremely happy of my decision.
Things to consider when making a career decision
First and foremost, the thing you should not consider to begin with is the salary. Monetary part of the job should come much later, and it will happen if you really love what you’re doing and are good at it. You first need to figure out whether this is what you want to do and will you be happy doing it for the rest of your life. When I started out as copywriter I was really passionate about advertising. I didn’t even think of money at that time. Gradually I sort of moved away from advertising and gained experience in different forms and styles of writing: writing for the web, and the electronic media, instructional designing, creative writing, corporate communication etc. But it was all in the field of communication.
Other things to consider are opportunities for progression in the job – how far can you go; job security – you don’t want to join a start-up that could go kaput in a few months, work environment, job profile – you don’t want to be joining a top notch ad firm as a copywriter and then be relegated to working on obituary ads. You’re better off joining a mid-size firm where you get the maximum opportunity to learn the craft; consider your long term goals: think whether the career path you’ve chosen will take you where you want to be few years down the line. If you want to become the chief editor at a publishing house, you don’t want to be squandering time by working at a retail store. Simple. Find a job at a publishing house.
One can obviously change careers also. One of the examples that come to mind is O&M’s Piyush Pandey, one of the brightest creative minds in the country, who was once a Ranji level cricket player.
Take the test
If you’re unable to come to a conclusion, take an aptitude test. There are several tests available online. Although they might not be 100% accurate, it will at least give you a rough idea as to where your strengths lie.
Making the right career decision is not easy, but it not that hard either. Also, you always have the choice of making a career switch any time you feel like. Many a people have left cushy jobs to pursue their real dreams, like opening a pastry shop, or any other line of work according to their choosing. And though it is hard work initially, they find true satisfaction for the first time in their lives, and are truly happy as entrepreneurs. So find your true calling and roll with it.