Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/725997
18 September, 2016 l Working World l WorkingWorld.com P eople rarely know right away what career they should be in and it takes most people several years to settle into the path they will follow. Here are some tips to know when it is time to decide: • If you don't like your career, change it! Sometimes it takes more work, especially if you're older, but it's possible for anyone. • It's not the end of the world if you choose a career that isn't something you dreamed of doing ever since you were little. If you have a job that doesn't make you miserable but which securely provides for your and your family's future, you will be surprised how happy you feel about your life and career. • Listen to your heart. • You never know what you are good at! Just spend more time with yourself and get to know about yourself. • The better you know yourself, the better the choice. Explore yourself. Figuring out what you should do with your life may sometimes require you to get to know yourself better. If you want a career that will really make you happy, you have to have a very good understanding of what you want and what you enjoy. For some people, this means taking some time off to decide what's important to them. There is nothing wrong with this, so don't feel bad. It's more important that you figure your life out as early as possible, rather than getting knee deep in a career which makes you hate your life. Consider your financial situation. Your ability to pursue or change careers may hinge on your financial situation. Some career paths require special schooling and this is sometimes expensive. However, you should not feel that being poor bars you from getting the education you want. There are lots of government programs to help you pay for schools, as well as scholarships, grants, and apprenticeship programs. Think about the education you will have as you enter a career. It is important to consider what education you already have or will have as you begin pursuing a career. If finances may bar you from pursuing more schooling, you may need to consider what you already have. It may also be necessary to stick with your existing high school or college degree if there are time limitations or other restrictions. If you find that you are limited to jobs relating to the degree you already have, consult with a career counselor to find out what options are available to you. Think about returning to school. If restrictions do not bar you from pursuing more schooling, you may want to consider this option. Not everybody excels in school or needs a traditional college education, but most career paths have associated training which you can do and will help you advance more quickly. Technical colleges, for example, may be a good option for those who would prefer not to pursue a traditional education. FEATURE ARTICLE Making a Career Decision Figuring out what you should do with your life may sometimes require you to get to know yourself better.