Maybe you’re in your first year of high school or maybe you’re going to be graduating this year.  At whatever stage you are in, choosing a career path is probably on your mind. While some people know exactly what their whole future is going to look like, that is not always the case. Either way, a lot of us are plagued by uncertainty and fear when it comes to figuring out what kind of career we want to pursue in the future. Don’t worry – chances are a lot of your fellow classmates are in the same boat and feel the same way.

Choosing a career path can seem like you’re choosing the tone for your whole life.  There are so many factors to consider when choosing the career that is just right for you. Questions that may cross your mind are: will this make me happy? Will I have financial security in this field? However, people get caught up in considering so many angles that the one factor they forget to consider is simply following their heart. This may sound a bit cheesy, but isn’t your heart always right?

Sometimes parents will put pressure on you to choose a certain career path. Maybe they want you to follow in their footsteps and choose the same profession they’re in. Also, it may seem like a lot of your friends are choosing a particular career and it seems like it would be safe to go along with whatever they are choosing. Yet, if you are choosing a career based on what your parents want or what your friends want then you are not taking the time to figure out what is really important to you.

You may also wish to seek the help of a guidance counselor. They may suggest career paths that they think will be suitable for you. However, remember that it is you that will be in this field one day and not them. So really consider what they are saying and if that career will make you happy.

Don’t let choosing a career become stressful or a burden in your life. It is something that you will determine as you continue school. You will take different classes that you will either enjoy –  or you won’t. You will also explore different interests which will expand your horizons. Some of these classes and interests will appeal to you more than others. Through this process you will probably gravitate towards a certain career field. Your heart will lead you in the right direction.