How to Choose an Occupation
Choosing an occupation takes thought and careful consideration. It is not a decision to take lightly; you will probably spend around forty-five years working, if you are just leaving full-time education. You can change your career, if you get it wrong, but in reality, people rarely change careers once they begin a career path.
In considering which occupation to choose, you should look honestly at yourself. What do you enjoy? If you are mad about art and science leaves you cold, it would be foolish to consider a career as a doctor. You would spend years studying subjects that you do not enjoy for a career that you would not enjoy either. Forcing yourself against your own nature and talents into a career for which you are temperamentally unsuited will cause you years of unhappiness and potentially sour your character. It will also mean that you are never more than a mediocre doctor, whereas if you go for a career as an art teacher, graphic designer, set designer, fashion designer or any one of the myriad professions connected with art you will have the passion and talent for your subject to succeed and reach the heights of your chosen career.
You also need to consider your character traits and personality. It would be foolish to consider a career as a lawyer, unless have the orderly brain, brilliant memory, and ability to organize facts into a convincing and coherent argument that a lawyer needs.
Money is also a consideration, but it is not, and never should be, the primary factor in your choice. You want to have enough to be able to live and pay your way. You may want to be an artist or sculptor, but unless starving in a garret turns you on, you might be better to consider a related career and do your real art in your spare time until you make your name.
Choosing your occupation can be difficult and you may need some careers advice. Some countries have free careers advisory services for both young people and adults. In the United Kingdom, youngsters aged twelve and upwards should look atFast Tomatoa careers education and advice site used in most UK schools.Explain that Stuffgives comprehensive career guidance for teenagers. Adults should trynextstep, a government site for adult careers advice that has various links to other helpful sites
You should remember, when choosing your occupation, that you will spend many years working and it should be something that you enjoy. Being stuck in a job that you hate is miserable and affects not only you, but also your family. Choose carefully and thoughtfully considering your own personality, character and talents, and you will make the right decision and be successful in your chosen career.
