A Lifelong Process - Career Development

The career is the journey of a person through their various learning experiences, work, and other aspects of everyday life. However, there are some people who perceive the career to be more than just a journey. For many career-minded individuals, there is nothing more important than the satisfaction they receive from their career. Many people who pursue a career understand that it is more than just getting a paycheck, working for someone else for a specific period of time, and travelling from place to place. The true career, as one's journey through it, is one which continues to grow and develop throughout one's career.

When beginning a career path, one has the option of either making a long-term commitment or a short-term commitment. Long-term career goals include reaching a certain level in an organization, such as achieving levels in the organization of one's choice (i.e. manager, supervisor, or director) or even making a significant contribution in some way to a community, nation, or world.

Short-term career goals involve obtaining employment in a particular field while one is still exploring other career options. This could include gaining experience in a particular industry or position before making a commitment to a long-term career path. These types of short-term goals could also relate to internships or a hands-on apprenticeship. Such a goal could prove to be rewarding because of the practical skills gained in the internship and in the position. This type of career development is often associated with on-the-job training (OTC) or certification programs. An example of a short-term career development goal might be obtaining experience in sales or marketing through an internship program.

There are many career development goals within every occupation. For example, while working as a property manager one could become involved in an owner-rented rehab house. Another example is becoming a motivational speaker, working as an investment professional, or teaching high school students how to become successful in their career path down the road.

The most important factor that affects a person's career development is their current situation. If an individual sees themselves in one of the different types of careers currently available and they have an immediate and pressing need for such occupation, they should be sure to take immediate action. The key factor with any career decision is determining the level of involvement and commitment required. While certain positions may not require as much effort as others, it is still important to have an open mind and be willing to evaluate all possibilities. Taking the time to research the different types of careers and see how the prospective occupation will impact a life can be a very valuable investment.

In conclusion, the lives of everyone are intertwined with career choices. Choosing the right career for yourself can provide a lifetime of experiences and opportunities. No matter what career path you choose, your life will always be enriched by the experiences that you will gain. Having an understanding of how careers affect people's lives can help you make the right decision.