Do you see people in their dream jobs and feel a pang of jealousy?

Has the question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” always left you feeling deflated?

If you’re still searching for your passion, you’re not alone. There are plenty of people working their nine-to-fives while they try to decide how they’d like to spend the rest of their working lives.

And while some people seem to have it all figured out with distinctively categorised careers such as nurse, lawyer, teacher, and accountant, not having a clear calling or purpose doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path.

We’re here to tell you why it’s OK not to have one true calling, and how to find a career you love in the meantime.

​

Follow Your Interests

Sure, some people get lucky and follow their dreams right into the perfect job. But what if, unlike Martin Luther King Jr., you don’t have a dream? This can leave you feeling disheartened about your future prospects for happiness, and even questioning who you are.

If you don’t have a dream or a passion that has you leaping out of bed in the morning, try following your interests instead.

Are you intrigued by biology? Do you find yourself regularly watching documentaries about architecture? Do you love any chance to chat about crypto-currencies? While you might be lacking a calling, there are sure to be topics that interest you. Who says you can’t turn those interests into a career?



If you study a course or work in an industry relating to your interest, it’s safe to say you’ll stay engaged and inspired because, well, you’re interested.

If you always do what interests you, at least one person is pleased



– Katharine Hepburn

Try A Few Different Things

And if you have more than one interest? Dip your toes in a few industries to find the right fit.

There’s nothing wrong with changing jobs to get a feel for your options before committing to something. In fact, Australians are changing jobs more often than ever before.

According to a study conducted by McCrindle, the national average time spent in a job is just 3 years and 4 months. The study showed the average Australian will work 17 jobs and have 5 separate careers in their lifetime.

Gone are the days of working in the same job until retirement. More and more young Aussies are getting a taste of several industries to find the perfect position.

The average Australian works 17 different jobs throughout their lifetime.



Job Mobility In Australia, McCrindle 2014

Build Your Network

The more professionals you converse with, the more real-world insights you’ll have into different roles and industries.

Grow your professional network through platforms like LinkedIn, and keep in touch with your professional contacts to maintain strong relationships. Attend networking events, and don’t be afraid to ask questions, ask for feedback, or ask for a meeting.

You’ve probably heard the old adage, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” Networking is a great way to raise your profile and get an “in” with potential future employers, colleagues, or mentors.

We share our top tips for building a professional network in this article.

Build your network through LinkedIn and networking events – online and offline.



Feeling lost in your search for a calling? Chandler Macleod can help. Get in touch today.