If you're still asking yourself, "what do I want to do with my life?" —this is for you.

Choosing your career path is not limited to an age range. Hell, waking up and deciding you want to do something different in life is extremely common. In fact, most people who choose to switch careers are taking the leap at 39 years old. According to the U.S. workforce statistics published by Zippia The Career Expert, about 22% of Americans have considered choosing a new career path since the pandemic began in 2020. I guess the realization that life could be shorter than we care to pay attention to, so why waste 40 hours a week doing something that makes us miserable hit us like a ton of bricks? Personal opinion, but I am sure there is data to back that statement up.

A career should not be confused with a job you work to pay the bills. By Oxford's definition, “a career is an occupation undertaken for a significant period of a person's life and with opportunities for progress.” A job is a place of employment or activity that is usually for a short period of time, it does not have room for growth, and it does not align with life purposes. We’re talking part-time shirt folder at the mall versus retail management here. Making a quick check versus professional development in an industry you plan on growing and elevating in. So it’s important that you choose correctly— no pressure.

Does this Career Path Align With My Purpose In Life?

“I can do this for free.” We all have a purpose in life. Your purpose is your central motivator to how you behave, the decisions you make, your goals, and your beliefs. It is the “why” of your life. When seeking a career, you want to make sure that it aligns with that. It should make sense and point you to happiness. A common response when someone speaks about their purpose is to help people. It would be contradictory if that same person chose a career that required putting people at a disadvantage.

A career is long-term. As shocking as this may sound, having a large salary to fulfill duties you hate will only keep you happy temporarily. Make sure you could see yourself happy immediately and twenty years from now. You want to love what you do. When you love what you do, you become more invested in your career and that passion could drive you to opportunities in your career field of choice.

What are the Qualifications and timeframe to Obtain Them?

Do your research to see what qualifications you would need to get in the field and to move up the latter.

• Skills

• Certifications

• Degree(s)

• Affiliate Networks

• Locality

How Is the Work/Life Balance?

This is major. Although you may fall in love with your career, it cannot cause you to neglect your life outside of work. Work hard but always leave room to play harder. There must be a balance to remain healthy and whole. Make sure your career leaves time for family, friends, and mental breaks. If you’re a parent with younger children— that should be considered, too.

Do you value schedule flexibility? Hybrid working environments that allow you to work in various locations? If you like to take vacations, how realistic will it be for you to take that much time off? Speak to people who are in the field who can give you insight.

Will I be Financially Stable and Sustainable If The Economy changes?

Money is not everything, but you damn sure need it to survive. Your pay should be able to reflect your hard work. When considering your pathway, you want to be sure that the salary will match your expenses. Financial hardships could happen. History and current economical events have taught us that inflation is real, and the economy could change at any given moment. Will your salary get you through? Make sure your work is rewarded. Will you be able to negotiate your worth?

It is also important to know the sustainability percentage of your career path of choice. First responders are considered critical positions. They are always needed. If cuts had to be made, will your career be on the chopping block?

Don’t let that discourage you. Be smart and keep options.