CAREER PLANNING: BEING INTENTIONAL ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT

I don’t think we have been trained enough to be intentional about the career we want. Many of us find ourselves chasing careers that ignite our passion, despite the possibility that they may not yield substantial financial rewards. Others may prioritize financial stability, often at the expense of personal satisfaction. It’s essential to strike a harmonious balance between these two aspects to discover a career that truly fulfils you!

I’ve had the immense pleasure of working in Talent Management for over five years, attended and facilitated countless workshops and webinars on career and professional development and my main takeaway is the extreme value of being intentional about your career path and taking the necessary actions to get where you want to be. What I observed is that the people who accomplished a lot and found the most satisfaction in their career were the ones with a clear career plan. When I say fulfillment at work, I also include the financial aspect which is very important no doubt but let’s not forget the other aspect equally important whih is doing what you like and are skilled at.

I love this quote from Kurt Cobain. “Wanting to be someone else is a waste of the person you are.” — This reflects what we often do inadvertently by failing to be deliberate about our career choices. Consequently, it’s important to be intentional about your career and to develop a career plan.

HOW TO CREATE A CAREER PLAN:

1. Do a self assessment, get to know yourself

⦁ Skills and Strengths: Identify what you’re good at. This includes both technical skills and soft skills such as communication and leadership.

⦁ Values and Interests: Understand what motivates you and what you enjoy doing. Your career should align with your personal values and passions.

⦁ Personality: Consider your personality traits and how they fit with different career paths. Are you more introverted or extroverted? Do you prefer a structured environment or a more flexible one?

2. Set Clear, Achievable Goals

⦁ Short-Term Goals: These are the steps you’ll take in the next year or two. They should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

⦁ Long-Term Goals: Think about where you want to be in five to ten years. These goals will guide your overall career strategy and help you stay focused on the bigger picture. Though you set your goals for a defined period of time, always set asside time to assess the progress you have made so far and decide if you want to revise your goals.

3. Research and Explore Option

⦁ Industry Trends: Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your industry. This will help you identify opportunities and potential challenges.

⦁ Career Paths: Explore different career paths that align with your skills and interests. Conduct informational interviews with professionals in your field to gain insights and advice.

4. Develop a Plan of Action

⦁ Education and Training: Identify any gaps in your knowledge or skills and pursue relevant education or training programs. Continuous learning is key to staying competitive.

⦁ Networking: Build and maintain a professional network. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with mentors who can offer guidance and support.

⦁ Experience: Gain relevant experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Practical experience can often be more valuable than theoretical knowledge.

5. Stay Motivated and Committed

⦁ Positive Mindset: Cultivate a positive attitude and maintain motivation, even when challenges arise. Remember, setbacks are simply stepping stones on your career journey!

⦁ Balance: Strive for a healthy work-life balance. True success encompasses not only professional achievements but also personal well-being and joy.

Conclusion

Strategic career planning is an ongoing process that requires internationality, keeping in mind the purpose. Take the time today to reflect on what career inspires and fulfills you, and begin mapping your journey toward it!I leave with you with a homework. What do you think is the ideal career for you?