Roman Krznaric is a British writer on the art of living and social change. In his book How to Find Fulfilling Work, he says there are five key things to consider when choosing a job:
• Earning money
• Achieving status
• Making a difference
• Following your passions (interests)
• Using your talents (skills)
The importance of each factor is different from person to person. As you read about each one, think about how important that factor is to you.
Earning Money
How much income do you want? What lifestyle do you want and what careers might make that possible? What other careers might suit you and can you make enough money doing them?
Achieving Status
Take some time to think about your proudest moments at work and in life. That may give you an idea of what “status” means to you.
Making a Difference
This is a common desire in job seekers. What is your definition of “making a difference”? Too many people think making a difference is about protecting people or animals. Actually, you can also make a difference when you complete accounts quickly and accurately. Teachers make a difference every day—but the results aren’t always seen immediately.
Following Your Passions
Sometimes people see this one as too unrealistic. It makes them think of people who want to become a singer, an actress or a footballer. However, many things interest us in life and more and more people are thinking about how they can make enough money from something they enjoy. How important are your passions and interests? Could you make money from your passions?
Using Your Talents
Find your talents first. What are your talents? What are the skills behind the talents? For instance, you might like chess and be really good at it. And the skills behind that talent might be things such as logic and mathematical ability. What careers are connected to these skills?
Knowing what you value most is only the first step. Sometimes in reality, we cannot find a job that satisfies all our needs or is perfect in every way. If we have too much of one thing and not enough of another, we are unlikely to be satisfied. Finding a balance between the factors and deciding what to give up is even more important.