Choosing the right career can be difficult, but having a defined career direction will help you with getting a job. But with a little hard work, some planning, and some serious self-reflection, you can set yourself on a path towards a fruitful, fulfilling career that can provide for you and your family.

2. 1. Think about your dream career.
2. Think about your hobbies.
3. Think about what you enjoy or enjoyed in
school.

3.  If you want to be a music star, consider going
into audio engineering or music composition.
These careers are easier to pursue and you
will be much more likely to succeed and
provide for yourself in the future.
 If you want to be an actor, consider going
into media broadcasting. You can get a
degree in communications or work your way
up the chain of command in a local news or
other television studio.

4.  For example, if you like playing video games,
consider becoming a video game designer,
programmer, or QA specialist.
 If you like drawing or art, consider becoming
a graphic designer.
 If you like sports, consider going into
teaching and getting certified as a coach.

5.  For example, if you loved chemistry, you
could look forward to a future career as a lab
technician or a pharmacist.
 If you liked English class, consider becoming
an editor or a copywriter.
 If you enjoyed math, consider becoming an
actuary or an accountant.

6. 1. Consider what you are or were good at in
school.
2. Think about what skills you excel in.
3. Think about your interpersonal skills.
4. Ask someone if you don't know.

7.  Look at the examples from the previous step
if you need ideas.
 Other skills, such as a skill for cooking, can also be
easily turned into a career.
 For example, carpentry, auto repair, construction,
and electrical work all benefit from people who are
good at fixing things or working with their hands.
These also tend to be stable, well-paying jobs.

8.  If you’re more the type to take care of others,
consider nursing or work as an administrative
assistant or office manager.
 If you don’t think you’re good at anything, ask your
parents, other family members, friends, or teachers
what they think you’d be good at. Their ideas
might surprise you!

9.  Explore yourself.
 Consider your financial situation.
 Think about the education you will have as
you enter a career.
 Think about returning to school.
 Do more research.

10.  Consider the careers you have easy access to.
 Consider your future financial security.
 Consider your future job stability.
 Look at the Occupational Outlook Handbook.