Steps to Finding a Career You’re Passionate About

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You’ve been at your job for some time now, and though you’re good at what you do, there seems to be something missing. There’s no passion or drive behind what you do and perhaps your only inspiration is paying the bills or having adequate insurance. You realize that while tolerating this job for a paycheck you’re sacrificing your happiness and potentially missing out on your true passion. Perhaps you want to leave but aren’t sure how or even what you’d do next?

Finding your passion isn’t easy. Leaving a stable career for a dream may even seem far fetched at the moment, however, it isn’t impossible. With the business environment being what it is today many unhappy individuals have taken the leap of faith and left their jobs to pursue their passions. The first step, however, is figuring out what yours is.

Think About What Interests You

What interests you? What subject-matter, group of people, cause, industry, or otherwise really interests you? Personal interests play a huge role in finding your passion. No matter what ideas come to mind, don’t dismiss them by thinking about obstacles, financial survival, or any other factors, just write those interests down. Then, conduct research on careers that closely relate to those interests. For instance, if you are interested in digital art and graphics you might be interested in working with a whiteboard animation company to help businesses further develop their brand on the internet.

Research Education Programs

If you don’t really have any personal interests that you believe would manifest into a possible career or you don’t believe you have the educational requirements to pursue one of your interests researching degree programs can help. Browse a local university and take a look at their degree programs. Most schools have handbooks to read on programs from an associates degree in computer technology to a bachelor of architecture. As you read the course descriptions do any of them align with your personal interests or existing skills? Again, try not to allow your brain to get the best of you as you think about the time you’ll have to invest or the costs of continuing your education. This is your passion and it will require work but can be worth it in the end.

Talk to a Mentor

If you have an idea of what type of career you’re passionate about but maybe aren’t sure if you can accomplish your goals or how to start, having a mentor can help. Look to find a professional who is in the field you’re interested in entering and develop a bond with them. A quality mentor will give you the steps, share their experiences, and be a personal and professional support system as you embark on your own journey.

Try New Things

The great thing about today’s business environment is that you can try your hand at just about anything. If you’re skeptical about your passion try it out. Start a side hustle, a small business, or become a freelancer doing what you love part-time. As you get your feet wet and gain more experience you can determine whether this is something you can and want to do long-term. Starting small instead of going in head first gives you the freedom to walk away if it doesn’t turn out as you’d hoped without the same risks involved.

Your job shouldn’t always feel like work. It shouldn’t drain you psychologically. It shouldn’t be something you’re settling for just to pay the bills. You should be passionate about your job, eager to meet goals, driven to learn more, and happy. Whether your passion is to start a nonprofit, run your own business, become an architect, become a digital marketer, or to be a blogging sensation it’s worth chasing. With the right plan, support, and time, you can find a career that brings you joy daily.

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Melissa Thompson

Melissa is a mother of 2, lives in Utah, and writes for a multitude of sites. She is currently the EIC of HarcourtHealth.com and writes about health, wellness, and business topics.