What Career Will Make Me Happy?
Picking a career path that leads to long-term personal fulfillment and happiness is no easy task. To choose wisely, you must take into account both what it is you love to do and where you excel. Sometimes the two overlap, and the journey to success is just a direct route. Other times, the journey can require a few detours and hard work.
First Steps
To figure out what will make you truly happy, there are a few steps you should take:
- Analyze Your Skills – Identify what it is you are good at and what you know. Understand that your skills are not defined by your education, job title, or current professional pursuits.
- Analyze Your Passions – Identify what excites you. Make a list of activities you (truly) enjoy and make sure that your skills and passions are aligned.
- Examine Your Current Situation – Consider what you like and dislike about your current job. Pay attention to the people, atmosphere, tasks, and day-to-day activities that make you content or irritate you.
Finding Work That Fits
Once you’ve taken the time to analyze your skills, passions, and current situation, you will be able to make an objective assessment of what career would make you happiest. Use resources like job boards and skill assessment tests to get an idea of the jobs that fit your profile. You might also find it helpful to start small by taking on a side gig related to a potential career path. This can help you gain experience and determine if it’s something you’d like to do full-time.
Stay Flexible
It’s easy to fall into the trap of choosing a career based on money or prestige. While you might think these will lead to a fulfilling life, it’s important to remember that money and prestige do not necessarily lead to happiness. Instead, stay flexible and remain open to new opportunities that come your way. These could be career options you didn’t even know exist.
Don’t Be Afraid to Take a Leap
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to find and pursue a career that will truly make you happy. Remember that making a change can be daunting, but once you find the right fit, it will be worth it. Don’t be afraid to take a leap and start something new.
