An important way you can prepare to make effective career decisions is to intentionally explore all areas of the world of work before you make those decisions.
You have to really know WHO you are and WHY you want to work before you can truly know WHAT you want to do and WHERE you want to do it. Exploring all six areas of the world of work is a key way of discovering who you are, and it is an essential first step before you narrow your interests and make a decision on a major and career path for the first time, or before you make a change mid-career.
I suggest you choose at least 3-5 activities in each of the six areas of the world of work to try out, the key being to intentionally pay attention to and keep track of what you liked and what you didn’t like about each of the activities.
The Realistic area of the world of work consists of “The Doers.” They like to see tangible, physical results from their work, and often like physical activities and working with things, computers, tools, animals, nature, and the outdoors. You can read my suggestions for exploring the Realistic area here.
The Investigative area of the world of work is made up of “The Thinkers.” They are analytical, curious, and research-oriented and enjoy problem solving, working with ideas and information, and subjects like science, math, and medicine. You can read about activities to try to explore the Investigative area here.
The Artistic area of the world of work is comprised of “The Creators.” They are creative, expressive, and idea-oriented people. They like to create and/or enjoy visual art and design, performing arts, culinary arts, music, and writing. You can read my post on things to try out to explore the Artistic area here.
The Social area of the world of work is made up of “The Helpers.” They are helpful, caring, service-oriented people. They enjoy working with people and helping them in altruistic ways, counseling, empowering, ministering, guiding, nurturing, caregiving, nursing, leading, directing, and teaching. You can read my post on things to try out to explore the Social area here.
This week I want to focus on the Enterprising area of the world of work. These people are “The Persuaders.” Here are some suggested activities to try out and explore the Enterprising area:
- Sell things
- Participate in a fundraiser
- Run for a public/club office
- Give a talk or a speech
- Organize an activity
- Entertain or plan a party
- Chair a volunteer committee
- Lead a group
- Start your own service or business
- Campaign politically
- Discuss politics
- Watch or participate in sports
- Attend a meeting and conference
- Operate a home business
- Read business magazines, journals, and blogs
- Learn about and/or invest in the stock market
Next time I will discuss the sixth area, the Conventional area.
Blessings,
