Navigating the world of careers is like trying to figure out which cereal tastes best. There are so many options, and everyone’s got their own expert opinion.
But let’s be real: “Follow your passion” Get a high-paying job!” “Start your own thing!” are about as helpful as saying “Just wing it.” Because who even knows what their passion is anymore?
So, how do you actually figure this whole career thing out? Let’s dive in.
- Figure Out What Drives You (Beyond Money, Memes and Netflix)
- Stop stressing about “finding your one true passion”. It’s more like finding a bunch of little passions that add up to something awesome.
- What gets you fired up? Think beyond the obvious. Is it solving problems, creating things, or just avoiding awkward social situations?
- What are you naturally good at? Are you a people person, a tech whiz, or a master procrastinator (just kidding about the last one)?
- What skills do you want to level up? Do you want to be a coding ninja, a marketing guru, or just really good at making GIFs?
- Consider your personality: Are you an introvert or extrovert? Do you prefer working alone or with a team?
2. Research and Embrace Flexibility (Because Plans Change Faster Than Your Mood)
- Explore your options: There’s more to life than 9-to-5s. Check out freelancing, entrepreneurship, or even becoming a professional cat video reviewer.
- Think long-term: Where do you see yourself in a few years? Are you aiming for world domination, or just a really nice apartment? This doesn’t have to be set in stone, but it’s a good starting point.
- Be adaptable: Things change, and that’s okay. The job market is a rollercoaster. Learn to pivot, change course, and even embrace the unexpected. Remember, life is a series of plot twists, not a predictable sitcom.
3. Keep Learning (Because Knowledge is Power, and Who Doesn’t Want Power?)
- Stay curious: The world is constantly changing, and so should you. Take online courses, read books, or even just watch educational TikTok videos.
- Level up your skills: Whether it’s coding, writing, or mastering the art of the perfect jollof recipe, continuous learning is key.
4. Network (But Don’t Be Creepy About It)
- Build connections: Connect with people in your field, attend events, and join online communities.
- Be genuine: Don’t just try to network for the sake of it. Build genuine relationships with people who inspire you.
- Remember, it’s not always about who you know, but who knows you. So be yourself, be helpful, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
5. Job Hunting: The Adulting Version of Swiping Right
- Create a killer resume and cover letter: Highlight your skills and experiences in a clear and concise way. Make it snappy, engaging, and free of typos.
- Leverage online job boards: LinkedIn, Indeed, and other platforms are your digital dating pool.
- Prepare for interviews: Practice answering common questions, research the company, and dress like you mean business (even if it’s just a Zoom call and you feel like a child playing dress up).
6. Think About Work-Life Balance (Or Integration, Whatever Floats Your Boat)
- Remote work?: Do you want to work from your couch in your pyjamas? Or do you prefer the office drama?
- Company culture: Is the company chill, or more like a corporate prison?
- Work hours: Do you need flexibility to pursue your side hustle or just to avoid rush hour traffic?
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Go Off the Beaten Path
- Think outside the box: There are more career paths than just the traditional 9-to-5. Consider freelancing, entrepreneurship, or even becoming a professional video reviewer.
- Define your own success: Don’t let society dictate what you should be. Find what makes you happy and go for it, even if it’s a little unconventional.
Remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs, twists and turns. It’s okay to change your mind, take detours, or even get lost. The most important thing is to keep moving forward, growing and having a little fun along the way.
