What do you want to be when you grow up? It's a tough decision, but these five strategies will help you refine your list of career options.

1.   Who are you? What’s important to you? What do you believe in? Where do you see yourself in 10 years? These are fundamental questions you need to ask yourself upfront so you don’t get sidetracked. Many careers may seem interesting. But if a job means compromising your values or living somewhere you don’t want, find something that feels right. If you can’t see yourself staying in a field for more than a couple years, keep looking.

2.   Skill set check. Identify your talents and passions. The best way to figure out what you want to do is to find something you care deeply about. If you love children, you might consider teaching, counseling or running a daycare center. Think about what areas where you excel. If math is your best subject, you might want to weigh engineering or accounting. And if you find your dream job, but don't feel prepared, don't give up. Talk to your guidance counselor. Map out a plan of action for classes and activities to get on your way.

3.   Be a sponge. Talk to those in careers that intrigue you -- try relatives, family friends and neighbors or ask your guidance counselor for referrals. Ask them what kind of education, training and experience they needed. Job shadow them for a day. Don’t be afraid to ask about hours, salary and family flexibility, so you get a full sense of what you’re in for.

4.   Jump in. Get a part-time job or internship in the field you’re interested in. Although you’re not ready to be an architect yet, you’ll get a good sense of what it’s like to work in a firm even if you’re doing clerical work. Interns at newspapers sometimes get to write stories and see them in print. Plus, you’ll be in close quarters with people who can become helpful mentors and answer your questions about how to prepare for a career in that field.

5.   Don’t panic. It’s OK if you didn’t have this all figured out in kindergarten. Even if you’re a high school senior, you still have time. Go with your instincts, go after your dreams and don’t be afraid to ask for help. And remember: Most people do end up changing careers in their lives. Discovering what it is you want to do can be a lifelong voyage. Enjoy the ride and what you learn about yourself along the way.

 

Susan J. Demas is a contributing editor to EduGuide and 2006 Knight Foundation Fellow in Nonprofits Journalism.