A strategy for avoiding career crisis points is to intentionally explore all areas of the world of work before making any career decisions. The goal is to really discover who you are 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.
There are six areas in the world of work: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. I suggest you choose at least 3-5 activities in each of the areas to try out, the key being intentionally paying attention to what you liked and didn’t like about each of the activities.
The Realistic area of the world of work is comprised 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.
This week I want to focus on the Social area. These people are “The Helpers.” Here are some activities to try out and explore the Social area:
- Volunteer at a hospital
- Offer to watch a friend’s or neighbor’s children
- Volunteer at a community food bank
- Read books to children at a local elementary school
- Teach/train others in a skill you have
- Write letters to people serving in the military
- Teach Sunday school
- Coach a little league team
- Visit nursing homes
- Tutor a child or help someone learn to read
- Do yard work for an elderly neighbor
- Create a care package for a shut-in or someone who lives overseas
- Help others with problems and personal concerns
- Lead Bible studies or other group discussions
- Volunteer at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen
- Join campus or community service organizations
- Volunteer at Vacation Bible School
- Take a meal to someone who is sick
- Volunteer with your local Red Cross
In the next few weeks, I will focus on the Enterprising and Conventional areas – stay tuned!
Blessings,
