Monday, May 19, 2008

Developing a Career You Love

Over 70,000 hours of the average person's life is spent working. When you see that statistic, how do you react? Does it depress or excite you? It all depends on whether you've found and are following your passion or not.

If you love what you do, you can't wait to wake up and do it. You don't have to set the alarm clock an hour early so you can hit snooze half a dozen times before waking up. You don't get that sinking feeling Sunday night knowing that you have to go to work the following morning. You're more productive and will likely make more money compared to others in your field. It is possible for you to have, if you're willing to pursue it.

From my own life and observing other people, I think it's very rare for someone just to fall into their dream career right out of school or college. It's not impossible, but I think people get so excited by the prospects of finally making some money that they are quick to take positions that may or may not suit them. There's nothing wrong with that until they become dissatisfied. Then they may switch jobs several times in the same field since they've already developed experience in it, not because they like it.

Some people eventually "settle" for something for the wrong reasons and are internally miserable on a daily basis. It spills over into their family life and their health. The most tragic thing is it doesn't have to be that way.

To do what you really want to do, you have to be proactive about it-you can't wait for it to fall on your lap. You may have to make some changes. Here are some ideas to get you started toward finding happiness with your work:

1) Know what you want.

Seems like an easy thing, but people don't take the time to think about it. Look back on your life and things you've enjoyed doing. Is there any way to translate that into a job or business? Think about your personality, skills, and hobbies. You don't have to have it down to a specific job, but more you define something the easier it will be to develop a plan to get you there.

2) Figure out ways you can transition.

With a lot of career changes, you do not have to immediately quit your current job to transition into another. You can start out doing what you like part-time, either through a part-time job or business. Even volunteer work may help you narrow down whether you would like a change in that direction or not. If it is going to require a job change, put back as much money as you can first so you don't have to deal with a financial situation at the same time.

3) Talk with people in the field you want to enter.

Most people like talking about what they do, and it can help you get a better feel for what it's going to take to get you there.

4) Realize you may not find the right thing on the first try.

Learn from the experiences until you find what right for you. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Keeping yourself in a miserable situation is an even greater mistake.

5) Read more.

I highly recommend a book by author Dan Miller called 48 Days Til the Work You Love. The advice in that book personally helped me realize what I want to do with my life. It goes into a lot more detail than the suggestions I've made.

I hope these tips have been helpful. Best wishes in your career. I hope that you find happiness and joy in your work.

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