Reading time: 3 minutes
When I ask my clients what they want from their careers, many say they’re not really sure. Getting clarity about your career takes time, self-reflection, and (most importantly) action. It doesn’t happen overnight. Here are a few tips to help you figure out what you truly want:
1. Understand the Value of Career Clarity
To me, career clarity means having a clear understanding and certainty about your career direction, goals, and a clear understanding of yourself; your values and interests. It helps you address critical questions like, “Am I in the right job?” or “What’s missing in my career?”
2. Take Responsibility
Many people think they just have to wait for clarity to appear. But clarity isn’t something that shows up on its own. It’s something you create. Deciding to get clear about your career is up to you. The clarity you have today is the clarity you’ve chosen to create. And even choosing not to act is still a choice. You’ve just decided not to do anything yet!
3. Start with Yourself
Take some time to think about how you see the world and what your values are. Reflect on your experiences in different roles and what really makes you feel fulfilled at work. Many people end up choosing careers for the wrong reasons and later realize that their job doesn’t match their true values. That’s when dissatisfaction, frustration, and lack of motivation creep in; it’s that feeling that “something just isn’t right.” Ask yourself questions like:
- Who am I?
- What am I good at?
- What do I want to do professionally?
- What values drive me?
- What motivates me at work?
- What brings me down?
4. Set Clear Goals
Be clear about what you want to achieve in your career. You might already know that you want a leadership role, but that doesn’t always mean changing jobs or getting a promotion. Sometimes it’s about making changes within your current role. Here are some questions that can help you clarify your goals:
- Are you still learning in your current role or organization?
- What benefits do you see in achieving your goal?
- Are you interested in internal transfers?
- What resources are currently available to you?
- Are there perceived risks?
- Which industries interest you, and why?
- Which companies in these industries do you really admire?
Research these companies, get a feel for their culture, and chat with employees to see if they align with what you want.
5. Take a Look at Where You Are Now
Take a look at where you are now compared to where you want to be in your career. Notice the gaps and think about what steps you need to take to get there. Are there skills or experiences you’re missing? Do you know anyone who’s done something similar? Look at your current performance. What strengths can help you move forward? What makes you stand out from your teammates? And don’t be too hard on yourself. Acknowledge both what you’re good at and what you could improve.
6. Take Action
The most important step to gaining clarity about your career and your life is taking action. Many people figure out what they want, but then don’t act on it or stay stuck in their comfort zone.
7. Explore Different Career Paths
Be open to trying different paths whenever you have the chance. Test out roles or industries to see what really fits you. Don’t get stuck in a job that doesn’t excite you. For example, you might start in public relations and realize it’s not your passion but maybe you enjoy the writing side and decide to explore copywriting. Look for companies that offer job rotations, so you can try different departments before making a big change.
8. Seek Support
If you’re struggling to gain clarity, don’t be afraid to ask for guidance from mentors, career advisors, or coaches. They can give practical advice at every stage. Asking for help doesn’t mean you’re giving up responsibility for your own clarity, it just gives you extra perspective and support.
