Our generation is fortunate because we can choose from a wide variety of career opportunities. Today, there are way too many companies, industries, technical and creative jobs to explore. Our parents had to fight their way to the top of the corporate ladder, often working in a single company, doing the same job for their entire work lives. How boring!
But the boon comes at a severe cost. I call this the ‘curse of choice.’ We have so much choice and no one to guide except our inner voice. However, the inner voice is often confused. I speak to job seekers every day, and I can tell you that the ‘curse of choice’ is widespread.
There are three main reasons for this dilemma –
- “Whether this is my true passion.”
- “Whether I am good at this”
- “Whether the world economy wants the skill in the future.”
I found myself in this dilemma a few years ago, when I had a choice to become a consultant at a Fortune 500 company or become a technology entrepreneur.
We all dream of finding a career at the intersection of passion, talent, and economic opportunity. I call this the holy trinity of work life. However, very few of us find that sweet spot. Most people give up very early on when they get their first paycheck at their first job. I don’t blame them. The salary message at the end of every month is pretty addictive. Most people toil away for that one moment. But they complain about their shitty jobs on all the other days.
How do we get out of this rut?
One word – Experiment.
Say yes to every opportunity that comes your way early on in your career.
Before you can do what you love, find what you love, see whether you are good at it and whether the world wants it. If not, start over. Repeat the cycle till you find your holy trinity.