Career choice? — Help!
Making decisions about the future, particularly when it comes to choosing an apprenticeship or study program, can be overwhelming. It is a period of change in which you need to get to know yourself better and explore your interests. These decisions often involve tremendous pressure.
In this phase of your life, you are faced with the challenge of making a decision that will not only influence your professional development but also your personal development. The pressure to make the “right” choice can be overwhelming and lead to stress and uncertainty.
Symptoms & effects
Deciding on a specific career or study is one of the biggest challenges for many young people. There is often uncertainty about one's own strengths, interests and future prospects. The pressure to make the “right” choice can trigger stress and anxiety, particularly when the environment has high expectations or there is uncertainty about the job market. Some young people feel overwhelmed by the variety of options, others feel they cannot find a suitable option. This can lead to decision blockages, lack of motivation or even an early drop out of study or training.
Strategies for improvement
A well-founded decision-making process starts with professional advice that analyses individual talents, values and wishes. Career orientation tests, internships, or mentoring programs can help to get a realistic idea of different career paths. Through targeted coaching, fears can be reduced and concrete plans can be developed to facilitate the transition from school to the professional world. In doing so, attention is paid not only to the current situation, but also to long-term perspectives in order to make a decision that meets both personal interests and career opportunities.