Advice On Career
posted on 08/05/2009
In this rapidly changing economy almost all Americans are experiencing career changes of some sort. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has given up attempting to estimate the number of times people change careers, since it is almost impossible to quantify. The last documented statistic was for 1982, when it was estimated that 36% of all Americans were in the midst of a career change of some sort and that between the ages of 18 and 38 people would hold an average of 10 jobs.
The question "What career is right for me" continues to be repeated over the last few decades. Can you imagine what the current statistic might look like? Overwhelming, to say the least!
The current wisdom of employment experts shows that almost all Americans are experiencing career changes now because of the rapidly changing global economy and institutional reforms being put in place. It seems when we were younger, transitions were events' with a beginning, a middle and an end.
Now it seems we are always in transition. Change is not only constant, it is a way of life and the more adaptable and accepting we are of this the more enjoyment we will get in our lives and careers.
The good news is that transitions - whether they are career changes, having a new child or going to college from high school - are all opportunities to go deeper with who you are and perhaps leave behind parts of yourself that do not serve you anymore. For example, many Americans have recently lost their jobs that in some way may have defined you. While you're job searching, it also may be a good time to do some soul searching about what kind of work may suit you even more than what you did in the past.
So here are some questions to ask yourself as you explore this possibility:
1. What did I enjoy most about my old job?
2. What were the most difficult parts of my old job and would I want to avoid them going forward?
3. Did I use and develop my talents at my old job?
4. What am I passionate about?
5. Based on this inquiry, what career is right for me? And what would be the elements of my dream job?
Asking these questions is a good way to have a fresh outlook on upcoming career changes in your life.
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