Photography by Davies + Starr; Lego scultpures by Nathan Sawaya
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Hot Jobs 2007
Look Inward
By Dan Miller, November & December 2007
Finding fulfilling work requires knowing yourself well
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The more you know about yourself, the better the chances of finding fulfilling work. This holds just as true for older workers looking at second careers as it does for younger folks. You have to look inward before you look outward. Identify and understand these three personal characteristics and your best work fit will become clear.
1. Skills and abilities
The most common mistake people make in choosing a career is doing something simply because they are good at it. Remembering the happiest times in your life and the times when you felt most fulfilled are better indicators of your calling than just knowing what you can do. Yes, you must know your abilities, but recognizing them is just one part of identifying your vocation.
2. Personality traits
Are you analytical and logical, or emotional and imaginative? Do you enjoy collaboration, or do you thrive when you are working on a project in isolation? There is no right or wrong here, but understanding your uniqueness will help identify the best environment for you.
3. Values, dreams, and passions
Are you motivated by position, status, titles, and money? By the constant search for new knowledge? Are you moved by beauty in nature and your surroundings? What is it that, when you are doing it, time just flies by? What are the things you enjoy most?
No matter how financially appealing or exciting an opportunity may appear, it must be an authentic fit that matches your unique personal characteristics in these three areas. Identify these characteristics and you will begin to see patterns emerge that will guide you in your search for meaningful, fulfilling work.
Following Your Dream
Did you find your calling at midlife or beyond? Share your story on our message board.
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