Follow Your Dreams A Guide To Planning Your Career – Part II

What is Career Planning? It is an ongoing system of decision making regarding the world of work which may be used throughout your life.

Career Planning Steps Self-Assessment Career Exploration Career Decision Action Plan

STEP 3 – Career Decision Everyone makes decision differently. It’s important for you to examine your own style of decision making Impulsive Fatalistic Compliant Delaying Agonizing Intuitive Paralytic Escapist Play-it-Safe Planner

“The tragedy of life doesn’t lie in not reaching the goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. Benjamin Mays

Seven Steps to Planned Decision Making

1.Identify the Decision to be made. 2.Gather relevant information 3.Identify alternatives 4.Weigh Evidence 5.Choose among alternatives 6.Take Action 7.Review decision and consequences

1. Identify the Decision What college majors/career paths are you considering? What other types of options are you considering At this step, clarify the decision that needs to be made.

2. Gather Relevant Information Decide what information you need and best sources to obtain the information. Examine the information and resources you already have. Seek out and utilize new information

3. Identify Alternatives List all possible and desirable alternatives. Should you go to Graduate School or directly to the work force? What are the requirements for each choice?

4. Weigh Evidence Look at each alternative and imagine what it would be like to follow this alternative. Identify the pros and cons of each alternative. Explore how each major or career relates to your interests, skills and values.

5. Choose among Alternatives Do you have enough information to choose one option over another? If not, you might need to do more research. You’re now ready to develop a plan of action.

6. Take Action What information or resources do you need to follow through on your decision? What are the obstacles to implementing your decision? How can you overcome the obstacles?

7. Review Decision & Consequences Reexamine Readjust Remain Flexible

STEP 4 – Plan of Action 5 Basic Steps 1.Develop your personal mission statement 2.Look at your current educational background, skills and abilities. 3. Identify your deficiencies 4. Set goals 5. Regularly evaluate your progress

1. Personal Mission Statement What do you want to accomplish with your life? Should be consistent with personal values and life goals.

2. Qualifications Look at your current educational background, skills and abilities. Do you have what you need to be able to accomplish your mission?

3. Identify Deficiencies What education/training are you lacking? What experience do you need? What skills must be developed? What obstacles need to be overcome?

4. Set Goals Plan step by step. Set both short term and long term goals Establish long term goals first and then work backward. Set SMART Goals.

Smart Goals S = Specific M = Measurable A=Attainable R=Realistic T =Timely

5. Evaluate your Progress Evaluate regularly Change what needs to be changed Modify goals to meet current situation If goal no longer important, eliminate it Be flexible

STAY POSITIVE Remember, even though things may not turn out as you originally plan, something even better may be in store for your future. You Never Know!