Let’s talk about your career. Not in the stiff, “update your LinkedIn profile” kind of way, but in the real, messy, “what am I doing with my life?” kind of way. Because let’s be honest: thinking about your career can feel overwhelming. It’s not just about finding a job or climbing the corporate ladder. It’s about figuring out who you are, what you want, and how you’re going to make it all work without losing your mind (or your soul).
I’ve been there. I’ve had those late-night panic sessions where I’m scrolling through job boards, wondering if I’m in the right field, if I’m good enough, if I’ll ever figure it all out. And you know what I’ve learned? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are some ways to think about your career that can make the journey a little less scary and a lot more meaningful.
So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea, or wine—no judgment here), and let’s dive in. Think of this as a heart-to-heart with a friend who’s been there, done that, and is still figuring it out.
1. Your Career Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Here’s the thing: your career isn’t a straight line. It’s more like a winding road with detours, pit stops, and maybe even a few wrong turns. And that’s okay. In fact, it’s more than okay—it’s normal.
How to Think About It:
- Focus on progress, not perfection. It’s not about getting to some mythical “end goal”; it’s about growing, learning, and becoming the best version of yourself.
- Embrace the detours. Sometimes the best opportunities come from the paths you didn’t plan to take.
Example: I started my career in marketing, but along the way, I discovered a love for writing. It wasn’t part of the plan, but it turned out to be one of the best things that ever happened to me.
Why It Matters: When you see your career as a journey, you give yourself permission to explore, make mistakes, and change direction. It takes the pressure off and lets you enjoy the ride.
2. Know Your Values (Because Money Isn’t Everything)
Let’s be real: we all need to pay the bills. But if you’re only chasing a paycheck, you’re going to burn out fast. Your career should align with your values—the things that matter most to you.
How to Think About It:
- Ask yourself: What’s important to me? Is it creativity? Flexibility? Making a difference? Write it down.
- Use your values as a compass. When you’re faced with a tough decision, ask yourself: Does this align with what I care about?
Example: A friend of mine left a high-paying corporate job to work for a nonprofit. She took a pay cut, but she’s never been happier because her work aligns with her values of helping others and making an impact.
Why It Matters: When your career aligns with your values, it doesn’t just feel like work—it feels like purpose.
3. Skills > Titles (Because Labels Don’t Define You)
It’s easy to get caught up in job titles and promotions. But here’s the truth: what matters most is the skills you’re building and the impact you’re making.
How to Think About It:
- Focus on learning. What skills do you want to develop? What experiences do you want to have?
- Don’t let a title limit you. Just because your business card says one thing doesn’t mean you can’t explore other roles or industries.
Example: I know someone who started as an administrative assistant but used the role to learn project management skills. Now, she’s a project manager at a tech company—and she loves it.
Why It Matters: When you focus on skills, you open yourself up to new opportunities and possibilities. You’re not stuck in a box.
4. Your Career Doesn’t Have to Be Your Passion (And That’s Okay)
Here’s a hot take: your career doesn’t have to be your one true passion. It’s okay if your job is just a job—as long as it gives you the time, energy, and resources to pursue your passions outside of work.
How to Think About It:
- Ask yourself: What do I need from my career? Is it stability? Flexibility? A creative outlet?
- Remember, your job doesn’t have to define you. You’re more than your title.
Example: I have a friend who works a 9-to-5 job in finance. It’s not his passion, but it pays the bills and gives him the freedom to pursue his real love: photography. On weekends, he’s out shooting landscapes and building a side hustle.
Why It Matters: When you let go of the pressure to “follow your passion,” you free yourself to create a life that works for you.
5. Build Relationships, Not Just a Résumé
Your career isn’t just about what you do—it’s about who you do it with. The relationships you build along the way are just as important as the skills you learn.
How to Think About It:
- Network with intention. It’s not about collecting business cards; it’s about building genuine connections.
- Be a giver, not just a taker. Offer help, share resources, and celebrate others’ successes.
Example: Early in my career, I reached out to someone I admired for advice. That conversation turned into a mentorship, and eventually, a job opportunity I never would’ve found on my own.
Why It Matters: Relationships open doors, provide support, and make the journey more enjoyable. You don’t have to do it all alone.
6. It’s Okay to Change Your Mind (Really)
Here’s the thing: you’re allowed to change your mind. You’re allowed to try something and realize it’s not for you. You’re allowed to pivot, reinvent, and start over.
How to Think About It:
- Give yourself permission to experiment. Try new roles, industries, or projects. See what fits.
- Don’t let fear of failure hold you back. Every “wrong” turn is a chance to learn something new.
Example: I know someone who went to law school, practiced for a few years, and then realized she hated it. She went back to school to become a therapist, and now she’s thriving in a career that truly suits her.
Why It Matters: When you give yourself permission to change your mind, you open yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Your Career, Your Rules
At the end of the day, your career is yours. It’s not about living up to someone else’s expectations or following a predefined path. It’s about creating a life that feels meaningful, fulfilling, and true to who you are.
So, take a deep breath. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to take the next step. And then the next. And then the next.
Now go out there and build a career that works for you. You’ve got this. 🚀