Some of us know that we are born to work in a particular industry. From the moment we open our eyes in the morning until we snuggle into our pillows at night, our path in life is clear. But what about if you only have a vague idea that you’d like to work with people, but you don’t know which career to choose? Let’s take a look at some options.
Occupational therapist
Working in occupational therapy is your chance to give back to your community (check out more details on a doctorate degree in occupational therapy).
From helping people to overcome the difficulties they face when recovering from an illness or injury to providing ergonomic workplace solutions that benefit everybody and prevent accidents, occupational therapy is all about restoring and building independence.
Occupational health isn’t just about physical well-being. Helping people to address any psychological roadblocks that may exist between them and task completion in the workplace is another big part of the role.
Working one on one with individuals to ascertain the root cause of their employment issues (both mind and body) is something not everyone can do. It takes people skills, a lot of understanding, and a drive to find a resolution. Sound good? Occupational health could be for you.
Charity
Charitable foundations offer career prospects that could involve global travel and the chance to work in a range of different environments and situations.
When we think of charity work, our minds may immediately conjure up images of clipboard wielding students with a crazed-look in their commission-driven eyes, accosting us on our way out of the supermarket. You know the type of thing, where you are besieged with reasons to donate half your monthly income towards mittens for kittens who find the cold Norwegian winters harsh on their paws. Or something.
Global charities handling real issues need staff. Boots on the ground. The right people in the right places. People who care, helping people who need it. If you can see yourself working in another country, making friends with colleagues from all walks of life, and breaking bread over a shared common need to do good, charity work is for you.
Legal professions
Things go wrong in life. And when they do, the law may have to get involved to find a legal resolution to the issue (read more about the different areas of law here).
Working in law means helping people to find peaceful outcomes from challenging situations. You will need to rely on certain character traits, such as patience, empathy, and calmness, and you will also need to back up your decisions with a desire to win every case. That means if you are shy and retiring, you may not be suited to a career in law. But if you are like former Congressman Steve Rothman and are dedicated and interested in helping other people to solve their woes, along with being competitive, the law may be the right choice for you.
Remember, no matter which path you choose, working with people can be one of the most personally rewarding career choices. Take your time and choose what’s right for you.
