Dear eNotAlone: I'm so confused. I don't know what the right thing to do is anymore. I'm in my early twenties, fresh out of college, and feeling completely and utterly lost.
I had a good four years in college and graduated with good grades. But as soon as I was done, I just felt that I didn't really have much of an idea as to what to do next. All through college people around me had been pushing for me to go for higher studies, or take up a job in a prestigious organization. But I just don't see myself doing either of those things.
I'm very aware that time passes quickly and I have to make decisions which will affect the rest of my life. I haven't had much by way of a career before this and I'm afraid of not being able to make the right choices. I'm in complete uncertainty and the future looks so daunting.
I want to be able to make decisions that are thought through and logical, but so far I've been unable to find a path forward. I'm looking for advice on how I should go about making decisions and ensuring that whatever I choose will bring me satisfaction and fulfillment.
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As you enter the next stage of your life, it can be a bit overwhelming figuring out how to make the right decisions regarding your career. Whether you're deciding whether to pursue additional education, if you need specific certifications, or if you should take a certain job path, there are things you can do to help you make sure you're taking leaps forward—not back.
First and foremost, start by examining what it is that you truly want to get out of life. Ask yourself questions such as, "What legacy do I wish to leave behind?", "Am I content with simply having a good job, or am I seeking something else?", and "Do I want to be remembered for my contributions to the world?" By considering these questions, you can help narrow down your choices and allow yourself to become clear about your end goal.
You should also look inwardly at yourself and ask questions like, "What am I passionate about?", "What life skills do I possess which could be beneficial in my career?", and "What do I find enjoyable while still making a difference?" In answering these questions honestly, you can not only work to identify strengths and weaknesses, but you can pinpoint the areas where you might be able to find immediate satisfaction and greater success.
Gather information and knowledge to help you navigate the decision-making process. It might be valuable to take some time to do research about your desired career paths. You can reach out to professionals in the field who can provide valuable insight into the work, demands, and challenges that come with those particular jobs. Consider utilizing internships or job shadowing opportunities to gain further awareness and foreknowledge.
It might also help to talk to friends, family, and other professionals whom you admire. This can help you gain perspective and potentially new viewpoints that you may have once overlooked. Having these conversations can give you the extra reassurance you need that you're making smart decisions. It could also be beneficial to join online forums or communities with people who share similar interests. Sharing experiences and advice can help to reduce the fear and anxiety that comes with the process of making an important life decision.
Try to maintain balance in your life and trust your gut more. Realize that some decisions will inherently be difficult and hampered with risk, but that's okay. As long as you're doing something that you enjoy, you're willing to learn and grow from, as well as something that aligns with your values and goals, you will remain in a better place no matter what the future brings.
Making important decisions regarding your career after college can seem incredibly daunting, but the truth is, you have the power to direct the trajectory of your own life. Through honest self-reflection, research, support, and leaning into your intuition and gut, you can increase your chances of making the right decisions that will set you up for a successful, fulfilling career.
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