How can I decide whether to pursue a career as a bodybuilder, athlete, or singer? What kind of mindset is needed to approach and navigate this challenge effectively?

What an important question for every young adult to consider, a decision that can profoundly shape your life. Let me share what I tell my three children:

How to Decide on a Career Path

1. Diversify First:

Explore as many professions, fields of study, sports, and hobbies as possible. Immerse yourself in different experiences to understand what excites you and feels natural. The broader your exposure, the clearer your preferences will become.

2. Go Deep:

When narrowing down your choice, consider these four key factors:

• How much you love it:

Can you see yourself loving this career even 20 years from now? If yes, it might be the right choice. Spending a third of your life on something you dislike often leads to dissatisfaction, bitterness and regret.

•  How good you are at it (relative to others):

Look for areas where your natural talents set you apart. Success in most fields requires excelling in a competitive environment, so choosing something aligned with your strengths is essential.

• How much the world values it:

Consider how much your career choice is valued by society. For example, during the Covid-19 pandemic, medicine and food production remained vital industries. Fields tied to humanity’s basic needs often provide greater stability and financial rewards.

• What is the impact:

Does your work help and contribute to humanity and the planet? Imagine waking up every day knowing your efforts make the world better. Work that serves others and respects the Earth brings peace and fulfillment.

What Kind of Mindset Do You Need?

1. Honesty & Clarity:

Be honest with yourself. Assess your opportunities, abilities, and limitations. Self-awareness helps you make better decisions and focus your efforts.

2. Self-Discipline:

Align your actions with your goals. Invest in your priorities daily, even when motivation fades. Consistency is the foundation of success.

3. Embrace Failure:

See failure as a valuable teacher. Every misstep offers lessons that bring you closer to your goal. Failure isn’t the opposite of success, it’s a step toward it.

4. An attitude of service:

One of the best ways to find yourself is by losing yourself in the service of others. Seek opportunities to contribute selflessly to those in need. In giving, you truly receive.

Choosing a career is an exciting journey of self-discovery. Explore widely, evaluate deeply, commit fully and seek to serve. Trust and enjoy the process, and remember, each choice and each mistake brings you closer to discovering your true path.

Tshering Dorji

Health & Happiness Coach | Mind-Body Specialist

As a passionate advocate for holistic well-being, I blend time-tested Eastern wisdom, modern science, and practical real-world insights to help others build antifragile minds and bodies that support their journey to happiness.