Most people do not seek help in choosing their work because of ancient cultural habits. Career choice has always been a do-it-yourself project since the dawn of time. But, then again, most people aren’t very fulfilled or maximally successful in their work. Both Gallup and Rockport surveys agree: only about 30% of us are engaged in our work.
If you broke your arm, you wouldn’t set it yourself; you would find a doctor. If you were sued, you wouldn’t defend yourself. Given the low percentage of people who believe their work is a good fit, the do-it-yourself method, even with a good book, is often insufficient to make the best career choice.
As the person who created and named the field of career coaching way back in the 1980s, I assert that doing it on your own is a big mistake. What if you miss something important?
In my experience, the best way to design work that is both a great fit and attainable is to participate in a career-design process like the Rockport Institute Career Choice Program®, or a similar program from another source instead of going it alone. The most effective programs include natural-talent testing and a complete career design process that coaches you through the complex process of making the best choice. If one-on-one coaching is not feasible for you, the next best strategy is to use a natural talent assessment program, and use The Pathfinderto coach yourself.
