By Elijah Johnson 
Know Yourself First
Before making any decisions about your career, it’s important to take a moment and really understand who you are. What are your strengths? What excites you? What tasks do you enjoy doing even when no one asks you to? Your personality, values, interests, and skills all play a big part in figuring out which career path fits you best.
You can try personality tests like the Myers-Briggs or take free career assessments online to learn more about your work style. However, beyond quizzes, just paying attention to what you naturally gravitate toward in daily life can give you some great clues. Self-awareness is the first step to building a career that truly suits you.
Set Clear Goals
Once you have a better understanding of yourself, it’s time to set some career goals. These goals can be short-term (like getting an internship or learning a new skill) or long-term (like becoming a manager or starting your own business). Having clear goals gives you direction and helps you focus your energy.
Be realistic, but also don’t be afraid to aim high. Think about where you want to be in five or ten years, and then break that big picture into smaller, achievable steps. A clear vision can be really motivating, especially when things get a little tough along the way.
Do Your Research
Before diving into any career, take time to research your options. Look into industries that interest you, the roles available, the qualifications needed, and the typical day-to-day responsibilities. Understanding what the job really involves will save you from choosing something that doesn’t match your expectations.
Try reading job descriptions online, watching career interviews on YouTube, or connecting with professionals on LinkedIn. The more information you gather, the better prepared you’ll be to make smart career decisions that align with both your goals and your personality.
Learn and Improve Continuously
The job market is always changing, and it’s important to keep learning if you want to stay ahead. This doesn’t mean you have to go back to school forever—but it does mean you should always look for ways to upgrade your skills. Whether it’s through online courses, reading books, or attending workshops, learning never stops.
Investing in yourself by learning something new can open doors to better opportunities. Employers love people who show initiative and a willingness to grow. Plus, gaining new knowledge keeps your work life exciting and helps you feel more confident in what you do.
Build a Professional Network
It’s often said that “it’s not just what you know, but who you know.” Networking might sound intimidating, especially if you’re introverted, but it doesn’t have to be. Think of it as simply building relationships with people who are in your field or the one you want to enter.
Start by joining career-related groups on social media, attending industry events, or reaching out to alumni from your school. You can also have informational chats with professionals to learn more about their journeys. These connections can lead to advice, mentorship, and even job opportunities down the line.
Get Experience Early
One of the best ways to plan your career is to gain hands-on experience as early as possible. Internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, or freelance work can give you a taste of the working world. You’ll learn what you like, what you don’t, and what kind of environment suits you best.
Even if the role isn’t your dream job, every bit of experience teaches you something valuable. Employers also love seeing real-world experience on your resume, especially if it shows initiative and a willingness to work hard and learn.
Stay Open to Change
It’s okay if your career path doesn’t go exactly as planned. Life happens, interests shift, and industries evolve. The key is to stay flexible and open-minded. Sometimes, a detour can lead to an even better opportunity you hadn’t considered before.
Don’t beat yourself up if you decide to change directions or if something doesn’t work out. Every step, even the missteps, brings you closer to figuring out what’s right for you. The ability to adapt is one of the most valuable career skills you can have.
Seek Mentorship and Guidance
Having someone to guide you can make a big difference in your career journey. Mentors—whether they’re teachers, managers, or industry professionals—can offer advice, share their own experiences, and help you avoid common mistakes.
If you don’t already have a mentor, don’t be shy about asking someone you admire for guidance. Most people are happy to help, especially if you’re respectful and genuinely interested in learning. A good mentor can give you a big boost in both confidence and direction.
Create a Career Plan and Review It Regularly
Just like a roadmap helps you get to your destination, a career plan can help you stay on track. Write down your goals, the steps you need to take, and a timeline for when you want to achieve them. This makes your path clearer and keeps you motivated.
Every few months, take time to review your plan. Are you making progress? Do your goals still align with what you want? Adjust as needed. Life isn’t static, and your career plan shouldn’t be either. Regular check-ins help you stay aligned with your values and ambitions.
Conclusion
Planning your career doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It’s all about knowing who you are, setting realistic goals, and taking one step at a time. Stay curious, be flexible, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help along the way. Every experience, good or bad, teaches you something valuable.
With a thoughtful approach and a willingness to grow, you can build a career that not only supports you financially but also makes you feel fulfilled. So take your time, explore your options, and most importantly—enjoy the journey!