Finding your career path in life

For many individuals, discovering their life’s true career path can feel like an insurmountable challenge. This quest may involve finding the ideal career, the perfect job, the right life partner, or making pivotal decisions related to health, relationships, or relocation.

It took me numerous years to reach a point where I no longer felt ashamed of my chosen career path. I pursued Social Work in a country where this profession was not yet fully recognized, often necessitating explanations to strangers about what I actually did. In contrast, those studying law encountered little need to elucidate their field; their primary concern was battling the misconception that they were “charge and bail lawyers,” a derogatory term for “hungry lawyers.”

The people around me believed I would excel as a lawyer, given my proclivity for engaging in intellectual debates with elders during my formative years. My parents were delighted, convinced they had unearthed my destined career at the tender age of eight.  I gradually embraced this notion: “Yes, I intend to practice law.” I enthusiastically shared this aspiration with anyone who would listen.

I thought I had found my calling until my application to a university law program placed me in competition with 5,000 other hopefuls for just a 100 available slots. Regrettably, I didn’t secure admission on my first or second attempt, leaving me with doubts about my chosen career path.

#What is a career?

A career refers to a person’s lifelong pursuit of work, employment, or professional activities. It is typically associated with a series of connected employment opportunities, where an individual builds up skills and experience at earlier stages to move them into higher-paying and higher-prestige employment opportunities later on. A career involves more than just a job; it encompasses the person’s long-term goals, personal development, and progress in a particular field or occupation.

When pondering your career trajectory, several key factors should be taken into account. What follows is my personal viewpoint, shaped by my unique journey. You may consider these insights and evaluate their applicability to your own life.

#Passion as an ingredient to a desired career path

First and foremost, contemplate your PASSION. Although I relished engaging in profound debates and discussions, this alone did not guarantee that I would make an exceptional lawyer. I couldn’t fathom why I had initially chosen to become a Senior Associate in Nigeria’s legal realm. Passion drives everything we do. Have you ever encountered someone genuinely passionate about their work? Their enthusiasm is unmistakable. Passion fuels your motivation and drive to excel in your chosen field. When you are passionate about what you do, you are more likely to put in the time and effort needed to master your craft, even when faced with challenges.

I yearned to assist individuals grappling with life’s challenges, offering therapy, counselling, and innovative solutions to their predicaments. My true passion lay not in defending the wrongly accused or prosecuting criminals but in aiding people in resolving their inner conflicts. Consequently, I faced the daunting task of informing my family and friends that their dream lawyer was, in fact, destined to be a Social Worker. Do I still engage in debates? Absolutely. Engaging in spirited discourse remains a gratifying pursuit. It’s essential to identify what kindles that inner fire within you.

#Problem solver

Another pivotal factor to consider is IDENTIFYING THE SOCIETAL PROBLEM YOU AIM TO ADDRESS. Every problem solver, much like a developer, encounters an issue they aspire to rectify. The same holds true for those embarking on a career journey. Simply finding a problem to solve will create a value-driven purpose. Effective problem solvers often gravitate toward areas or subjects that pique their curiosity. When you encounter a challenge or question, pay attention to the topics that naturally intrigue you. This can be a clue to your interests and potential career paths.

For me it was the endless number of children who suffered in abusive households, individuals who were forced to endure abusive relationships, and the countless number of persons battling mental health-related issues. This was the societal ill I yearned to confront. Consequently, I knew I had chosen the right path when I opted to centre my thesis on “Factors Influencing Juvenile Delinquency in Secondary Schools.” Identifying a problem you are passionate about resolving can significantly narrow down your career choices.

I had already harboured a passion for writing some of the stories published here, so discovering another source of fulfilment was a blessing. I take pride in being a Social Worker and will tirelessly educate my fellow Nigerians about this profession.

#Developing skills

Passion naturally leads to a thirst for knowledge and improvement. Those who are passionate about their careers are more likely to seek out learning opportunities, stay updated on industry trends, and strive for excellence. So acquiring the right skills and education is essential for your ability to make a meaningful contribution to society. Once you have identified the profession and life path that resonates with you, it becomes paramount to take the necessary steps to obtain the relevant education.

Education provides a strong foundation, fosters adaptability, enhances problem-solving abilities, opens up career opportunities, enables specialization, and allows you to contribute to society. Continuous learning ensures you remain relevant and valuable in your field, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and impactful career. Whether you opt for formal education within an institution of higher learning or choose to undergo apprenticeship under an expert in your chosen field, the key is to ensure that you are acquiring the knowledge and skills required for your desired career. There are just free platforms like Alison where you can learn and acquire these skills. You get a first hand of what it is like in this profession. You can click here to check it out.

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, the journey of finding your path is not a linear one. It’s a dynamic process that evolves as you grow and change. What you are passionate about and the issues that resonate with you may shift over time, and that’s perfectly natural. This journey is about self-discovery, personal growth, and the continuous pursuit of a life that aligns with your authentic self.

So, embrace the challenges, uncertainties, and trials that come with this odyssey. They are the stepping stones to self-realization and a life filled with purpose and meaning. Keep exploring, keep learning, and keep following your passions, and you will undoubtedly find your own unique route to fulfilment and purpose.

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