When you choose a career, you are making an important life decision. Students and staff at Oxford University have created the website www.80,000hours.org. The home page contains the statement: “You have 80,000 Hours in your career”. The site is geared toward persons interested in work that will have an impact on the world. So, it’s the quote, not the topic of the site, that I’m bringing to your attention. Regardless of what career you choose, you are making a big commitment. So, take time to explore.
The American Psychological Association reports: “Unfortunately, work-related stress doesn’t just disappear when you head home for the day. When stress persists, it can take a toll on your health and well-being.” I can attest to this having spent seventeen years in the wrong field. Yes, government employment is stable and I had good benefits. However, days spend gathering and processing data were grueling for someone like me who enjoys being creative. Within the first few months, I cracked a tooth from grinding my teeth at night. And, that was just the beginning. I’m glad that I had good health insurance because they sure made me need it.
Your personality type says a lot about the activities you are likely to enjoy and the situations in which you are likely to feel most confident. Do you prefer working with a group or independently? Do you like working with specifics? Or, do you enjoy using your own ideas to create new things? Do you tend to use an objective or subjective approach when making decisions? Do you prefer following a schedule with established deadlines? Or, are you most comfortable using a flexible approach?
By completing the MBTI, you can identify your preferences and strengths. Your MBTI results, an interpretation of your type and the many resources on personality type and careers can help you choose a career that’s right for you. 80,000 hours is a long time! Spend it doing something you like!