Finding Your Way

By ArLyne Diamond, Ph.D.

In deciding on a career path, keep in mind that while some of us are lucky enough to know what we want to be when we grow up, most of us are not. Some realize from the start they want to be doctors, lawyers, clergy, firefighters or peace officers. For most of us, discovering our career requires a period of experimentation -- sometimes a long one.

It took me many years before I realized I wanted to be a psychologist. Before that, I had been a secretary, bookkeeper, office manager, efficiency expert and consultant. Now I combine my psychological and consulting backgrounds and call myself a consultant to management. All of my experiences have served me well, enabling me to move from one career to another.

Why am I telling you this? Because I want you to realize that for some of us there is no single right answer -- there are several career paths we might select in life.

As you've grown, you probably have realized what you like and what you don't like. Perhaps you have an affinity for math and science; maybe you've been drawn more to English, history or political science. Some theorists divide the world into three categories: people, ideas and things. This might be a useful way of determining which areas suit you.

Once you decide you want to pursue a particular path, you can move in the direction of your dream job by taking a lesser position in the profession or industry of your choice. If all else fails, accept any job in which you have a chance to learn things that will help you in the future. If you can find a job with hours that enable you to continue your job hunt in the field of your choice, so much the better. Even if the dream is not immediately available, enjoy what you are doing and keep working toward your dream.

Another thing you can do for yourself -- and others -- in pursuing your dream is volunteer. This can help you: acquire experience in areas that are important to you; work as a member of a team; speak in public; and lead groups, motivate volunteers and otherwise develop management and leadership skills. In addition, you will acquire a long list of friends and acquaintances with whom you can network as you move along your career path.

Interning at a company can also be an invaluable way of acquiring experience and of getting your foot in the door. By proving yourself, and getting to know people and having them see both your skills and work attitude, you are giving them the samples they need. Be sure to meet the right people, let them know you are seriously interested in working for them and, of course, do your best. If you are good at what you do and have a pleasant and cooperative personality, you may get your first important full-time job through interning. My chiropractor just hired one of his interns.

When you do start working, find a mentor. Mentoring is critically important to the success of an individual's development, both personally and professionally.

If you wish to reach out to someone older and wiser than you, you must first do your homework and know what it is you want from them. The more specific you can be, the greater your chance of success. Make it as easy as possible for the potential mentor to work with you.

It may take some time to find a senior person with the wisdom you seek and the kindness to help you grow professionally. Take your time, but do establish finding the right mentor as one of your basic career goals.

Career counselors can also help you, but be careful here. While some are excellent, many are mediocre. I've known counselors who suggested people lie on their resumes and downplay their education and experience