Finding Your Career, Fulfilling Your Destiny

In this economy many of us have been conditioned to take advantage of and appreciate any and all job opportunities that may come our way. But there is something to be said for finding a career that truly engages your talents and interests. Your career makes up a huge part of your life and if you want that life to be truly rewarding, it is important that you find your work rewarding. It’s a mistake to spend your life doing work you neither excel at or enjoy. Within each of us lies a point where our strengths meet our interests and it is at that intersection our careers should lie.
If you have yet to find that career there are a few steps you can take towards discovering it. First, don’t be afraid to ask for others’ advice. By networking with others and discussing what interests you and what they find enjoyable about their career, you may find yourself able to narrow your options. A great way to do this is to set up informational interviews. If you think a certain job may suit your interests and talents, contact somebody who currently holds that job. Inquire if they would be willing to sit down and talk with you about their career. You may be surprised how willing people are to talk about themselves and their lives. Second, apply for jobs you may not have otherwise considered. Perhaps the pay isn’t quite right or the location is a little further than desired, if the job is right for you it’s worth the extra expense. If you currently have a job but you aren’t enjoying the work you’re doing consider what it is that you feel like you are missing. If you feel that your position can be tailored to better suit your interests plan to meet with your employer, if not don’t be afraid to look for other opportunities, even if you are comfortable in the position you are in. Lack of passion is enough to constitute a re-evaluation of your career.
If however you are lucky enough to have found a career where your passions and talent collide, think very carefully before leaving such a position. Chances are that if you have found this job you’re doing well at work and that could mean other offers, including offers to move up the corporate ladder. This is not to say that you should reject every opportunity that comes your way, perhaps these opportunities will continue to utilize your passion and talents and offer you a chance to grow. The most important lesson to be learned is that interest in your career is important to your overall happiness and subsequently should not be overlooked.