By Bola Benson
“I learned that nothing is impossible when we follow our inner guidance, even when its direction may threaten us by reversing our usual logic”.
—- Gerald Jampolsky
Every human being strives to be passionate about his/her desires to ensure that his/her destiny takes him/her to the right quarters. No one wants to remain in the backwaters in this ever-changing terrestrial. Moreover, it is an illusion that you do not have what you want. An anonymous writer says, “it behoves you to find out who you are”.
This gives credence to the thrust of this piece,” Discovering and Pursuing A Career Of Your Passion:” A Fulfilling And Rewarding Journey. The discovery and pursuit phenomena should entail taking a macro-look at the current situation in the country or environment and imbibing the habit of thinking ahead. It could also be viewed as embarking on a voyage in search of one’s talent or development of such innate or latent gift.
And as they say: ” The best way to predict the future is to get a clear idea of what is happening now”. This will serve as the barometer or compass to our life struggles, thereby taking us to our expected Eldorado. It presupposes to learn to walk before ever attempting to run.
It is a scenario that goes through the fundamentals in a bid to attain the desired career that serves as the gateway for a livelihood. No wonder Charles R. Swindoll, opines” we are all faced with magnificent opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations”. The discovery and pursuit concepts are phenomena that could translate to the virtues of practical and concrete achievements. These will usher in indelible footprints that will remain in the sands of time.
According to Lord Chesterfield: “Without firmness of purpose, geniuses waste their efforts in a confusing pathway of inconsistency”. While David S. Jordan postulates that,” the whole world steps aside for the man or woman who knows where he/ she is going”.
Discovering and pursuing a career direction that aligns with your passions is a fulfilling and rewarding journey. It allows you to not only excel in your chosen field but also find joy and satisfaction in your work.
Here are some steps to crystallize your passions:
Reflect on your interests: Take some time to reflect on the activities, subjects, or hobbies that truly spark your interest and make you feel engaged. Consider what brings you joy, what you find intellectually stimulating, and what activities you naturally gravitate towards. Make a list of these interests and note down why you find them appealing.
Identify your strengths: Explore your strengths and natural talents. Consider the skills and abilities that come easily to you, as well as the ones you enjoy using the most. Assess your strengths in areas such as problem-solving, creativity, communication, leadership, or analytical thinking. Understanding your strengths will help you identify potential career paths where you can excel.
Research career options: Once you have a clear understanding of your interests and strengths, start researching various career options that align with them. Look for industries or professions that incorporate your passions and utilize your skills. Consider the educational requirements, job prospects, and potential growth opportunities in each field. Explore different roles and industries to broaden your perspective.
Seek guidance and advice: Reach out to professionals already working in the fields you are interested in. Seek their guidance and advice on how to turn your passions into a career. They can provide valuable insights, share their experiences, and offer suggestions on the best paths to pursue. Networking events, industry conferences, and online communities can be great resources for connecting with professionals.
Gain practical experience: To further solidify your career direction, seek opportunities to gain practical experience in your chosen field.
This could involve internships, volunteering, or taking on relevant projects that allow you to apply your skills and explore potential career paths. Practical experience will not only enhance your skills but also provide valuable insights into the day-to-day realities of your desired career.
Set goals and create a plan: Once you have a clear career direction, set specific goals and create a plan to achieve them. Break down your long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps. Identify the skills, knowledge, or qualifications you need to acquire and create a timeline for achieving them. Setting goals and creating a plan will help you stay focused and motivated on your career journey.
Continuously learn and adapt: Embrace lifelong learning and continuously seek opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills. Stay updated with industry trends, attend workshops or seminars, and consider pursuing further education or certifications that can support your career growth. Adaptability and a willingness to learn are crucial in shaping a successful and fulfilling career.
Remember, the path to crystallizing your passions into a career direction may not be linear, and it may require some experimentation and exploration. Be open to new experiences and remain adaptable along the way. By aligning your passions with your career, you can create a path that brings fulfillment, purpose, and joy to your professional life.
“The greatest achievement was at first and for a time a dream. The oak sleeps in the acorn. The bird waits in the egg. And in the highest vision of a soul, a making angel stirs. Dreams are the seedlings of realities”.
—— Anthony Mello