Education

When I Grow Up

Do you remember at school you were asked over and over again - What do you want to do when you grow up?

Which really on reflection makes me think what you do as job is what defines you, which we know is not true.

Today when you ask the younger generation what they want to be? The most common answer is FAMOUS. No more career goals of being a doctor, lawyer or a teacher.

What I love about the world now is the opportunity that exists. When I went to University there were different options for study although the courses were similar with the same run of the mill subjects. Now we have options like Digital Entrepreneurship, Personal Branding, Authentic Leadership or Corporate Sustainability.

At any age you can go back to study and take a new career path if you are ready for a change. Many courses also offer full time and part time study with some offering complete online learning so you never need to be in a classroom.

If you feel a little lost about your career direction, one book I read and it continues to be republished is “What colour is my parachute” by Richard Bolles. The book gives you the tools to discover and land your dream job. They have already released the 2022 edition. You do need to “do” the book, as there are activities to complete so you can define your purpose and way forward.

The message is - it’s never too late to change career direction. Network and talk to others in the field you are interested in to see what doors can be opened for you. You are never stuck where you are, especially if you are not feeling fulfilled.

Perhaps in the future we will start to hear about happiness instead of fame, helping others instead of what’s in it for me and maybe my dream of being a back up dancer is a reality.

When I grow up I want to be?