Choosing a career sounds simple when we are young.
Study well.
Get good marks.
Pick a “good” field.
Everything will fall into place.
At least, that’s what we are told.
But reality looks very different.
Many capable and intelligent people still end up in roles that don’t feel right. Some feel bored. Some feel constantly stressed. Some perform well but feel disconnected from their work.
The issue is rarely effort.
The issue is how career decisions are made.
Why Career Decisions Feel Confusing
If you ask people why they chose their field, the answers usually sound like:
“My parents suggested it.”
“My friends chose it.”
“It has good salary.”
“I liked the subject.”
Very few decisions are based on real self-understanding.
And that’s where problems begin.
Because a career is not just about what sounds interesting. It’s about how you naturally think, decide, and work every day.
If the role doesn’t match how you operate, even success feels tiring.
The Three Common Myths
Myth 1: Follow your interest
Interests change. Long-term work style doesn’t.
Myth 2: Marks decide everything
Good marks show effort, not fit.
Myth 3: If others can do it, I can too
Careers are not one-size-fits-all. Everyone’s strengths are different.
What Actually Matters More
Instead of asking “What do I like?”, a better question is:
“How do I naturally operate?”
Things that matter more:
• how you think
• how you handle pressure
• how you interact with people
• what kind of environment energises you
When these align with your work, careers feel sustainable.
When they don’t, burnout happens faster.
A More Structured Approach
Career decisions should not be trial and error.
They should be based on clarity.
This is where structured tools like cognitive and emotional assessments help. They provide objective insights into strengths, trade-offs, and suitable work environments.
Instead of guessing, you decide with evidence.
Want a Deeper Step-by-Step Guide?
We’ve created a detailed career clarity guide that explains this process with examples and reflection exercises.
👉 You can read the full guide here:
Download Career Guidance PDF
