CAREER CHOICES: Gaining Clarity…

WHAT IS A CAREER?

A career is more than just a job,  a way to put food on the table, or a way to live that luxury life you have always dreamed of living. It is a journey of your professional life, and it comprises the experiences, roles, and skills you have discovered, developed and learned over time.

While a job can be temporary, a career is more long-term and can involve your interests, values, and life circumstances, eventually shaping not just what you do, but the individual you become in the process.

Career choices are one of the most important decisions individuals make in their lifetime due to vital roles they play in the individuals social, economic and emotional well-being. Such decisions are challenging for most people and others find them stressful making it difficult to make good choices.

Ever been in a job or workspace that looks perfect on the outside but deep down there is something missing? 

Are you in a state where you cannot decide on the step regarding your career?

Do you feel your current Career path or choice is not the one? Then keep reading because I might be able to answer some of your questions.

IT IS OKAY TO BE CONFUSED: You are not alone.

In terms of career choices, confusion is not a foreign word many people go through at some point including the ones you consider as role models and successful people. For example the famous Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie was once a medical student before switching to writing full time.  So that is to say without mincing words that confusion doesn't mean failure and it is often a prelude to self discovery.

DIFFERENT PATHS, SAME DESTINATION.

There is no myth that says there’s only one correct Carter path. In truth, success looks different for everyone and while some people find their calling early, others take detours, change lanes or even build their own lanes because in this 21st century workplace, it is filled with people bleeding multiple passions.

Your journey might not look like that of others on social media, friends or peers and that's okay, what matters in the end is not speed or prestige but alignment.

Gaining clarity in your career changes everything; it's not just about ticking all the boxes on a job description or resume, it's about knowing what drives you, what inspires you, and what genuinely excites you. 

Once you gain this clarity creating a path, or following a path will no longer be difficult and soon opportunities will start appearing.

CONSIDER THE TYPE OF ACTIVITIES YOU ENJOY DOING.

Your career choice plays a long-term role in shaping your happiness, fulfillment, and overall success. Since you'll spend a significant portion of your life working, it’s important to choose a path that aligns with who you are and what brings you satisfaction. Making a wise career choice starts with reflecting on your interests and strengths.

This means taking time to understand your core motivations, values, and what excites you. It's not just about choosing something you're naturally good at, but something you enjoy and can see yourself growing in. For example, you might not be the best public speaker now, but if you enjoy communicating and storytelling, that interest could lead to a fulfilling career in media, law, or education.

Identifying your strengths and weaknesses might feel challenging, but paying attention to what tasks energize you versus those that drain you can be helpful. Psychometric tests or career assessments can also give useful insights into your personality, work style, and preferences. Also, think about the lifestyle you want: Do you want flexibility, stability, creativity, or constant growth? All these factors should guide your decision-making process.

TURNING YOUR PASSIONS AND INTERESTS INTO CAREER CHOICES

Once you have a clear idea of your interests and skills, the next step is to explore careers that align with them. This requires research to look into various industries, job roles, and current trends. Try to understand what a day in the life of someone in that role looks like and whether it suits your personality and values.

Start by creating a shortlist of five to ten possible career options. Weigh the pros and cons of each based on your skills, goals, and lifestyle preferences. Ask yourself:

 “Can I see myself doing this every day and still feel fulfilled?”

It’s important to remember that career paths aren’t always linear. You might shift direction, take on new roles within your field, or explore related industries. That’s perfectly normal. In fact, having backup options or flexible career plans is a smart way to prepare for the unexpected.

In conclusion, making the right career choice isn’t about finding a single perfect job—it’s about understanding yourself deeply and aligning your strengths, interests, and values with your career direction. Taking actionable steps, like reflecting on your activities, researching careers, and assessing your skills, helps remove the fog of confusion that often surrounds these decisions.

A thoughtful approach helps avoid impulsive decisions that can lead to dissatisfaction or burnout. It also equips you to adapt when changes come, knowing that you’ve chosen a path built on self-awareness and intention

Always remember: “Indecision itself is a decision.”But when you take the time to truly know yourself, you're making the best possible choice for your future.