DISCOVERING A CAREER PATH OF INTEREST

A fulfilling career is one that aligns with what genuinely excites and motivates you; this is more than just choosing a job that pays your bills. Whether you’re just starting or feeling stuck in your current role, discovering your interests can set you on a path to a more satisfying career; it’s a cornerstone of a fulfilling career. Here is a guide on how you can start an exciting and satisfying career journey.


1. Reflect on Your Hobbies and Passions

One of the simplest ways to find your interest is to reflect on what you enjoy doing in your free time. Your hobbies and passions often provide clues to the types of careers that might be a good fit. Consider the following;

• What activities make you lose track of time? Whether it’s writing, painting, coding, or organizing events, the things that absorb you are most likely tied to your core interests.

• What do you love talking about? The topics you discuss enthusiastically with friends or colleagues reveal where your passions lie.

• What do you do voluntarily? Think about activities you do without being asked, like helping friends with their tech issues, volunteering, or starting a personal project. These can be indicators of interests that could translate into a career.


2. Career Assessment Tests

Career assessment tests provide valuable insights into your interests and how they align with different career paths. These tests offer starting points for exploring your interests through evaluating your personality, skills, and preferences to suggest careers that might suit you. Some popular assessments to help you in identifying your interests include:

• Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): This test identifies your personality type and suggests careers based on your traits.

• Strong Interest Inventory: This assessment matches your interests with potential careers based on your likes and dislikes.

• Holland Code (RIASEC): This test categorizes you into one of six personality types. These categories include; Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. Additionally, career paths are suggested accordingly.


3. Explore Different Fields

Sometimes, the best way to find your interest is to try out different things. If you’re unsure about what excites you, why not try exploring various fields. Here’s how:

• Take short courses or workshops: Enroll in courses or workshops in areas that intrigue you. Remember, this could be anything. The goal is to experiment and see what resonates with you.

• Volunteer: Volunteering allows you to gain hands-on experience in different areas without long-term commitment. It’s a great way to test out potential career paths.

• Internships or part-time jobs: Internships and part-time jobs provide real-world exposure to different industries. They can help you understand the day-to-day tasks of various roles and determine if they align with your interests.


4. Talk to Professionals

Networking with professionals in fields you’re curious about will offer you invaluable insights. You will learn about what their daily tasks are, what challenges they face and what skills they have and use. Consider asking for a chat to learn about their work, joining online groups to participate in discussions, and attending events like conferences or workshops to network and gather more information.


5. Be Open to Change

Your interests may evolve over time, and that’s okay. As you gain more experience and exposure, you might find new areas that excite you. Here’s how to stay adaptable:

• Continuous learning: Stay curious and keep learning. Take up new challenges, learn new skills, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

• Re-evaluate your goals: Periodically assess your career goals and interests. If something new sparks your curiosity, explore it. It’s never too late to pivot or explore a different path.

• Embrace change: Career changes can be daunting, but they’re often necessary for personal growth. If you discover a new interest, take small steps to pursue it, such as starting a side project or taking related courses.