Have you been bouncing from one job to the other in search of something real? If you are tired of playing the field, it's time to get serious about your options.
Falling in love with your work is no accident. The Mayo Clinic suggests one of the secrets of job satisfaction is figuring out what "motivates and inspires you." It certainly makes sense that you'll feel more fulfilled by your nine-to-five demands when they tap into your personal passions and make the most of your skills.
Searching Your Soul
Perhaps it would be easier if the want ads read like the personals. Have a little fun while you soul search and redefine your career goals as though you were seeking your soul mate instead. Ask yourself what's been missing in your former jobs -- money, status or pleasure? If your knight-in-shining-armor job came galloping in, what would it look like? Don't fail to evaluate some key info, like how much you'll make and what it will take to get there.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Offer: Search for Schools
- Wants Kids
This career is a perfect match for the guy or gal desperate to have children in their lives. You can inspire young minds through stories, songs and play. You can dress up life lessons as another chance for fun. Want another reason to fall for this gig? Astronaut Christa McAuliffe perhaps said it best, "I touch the future. I teach."
Icebreaker: To connect with this career you need a bachelor's degree in elementary education or another pertinent field with a teaching credential, or an early childhood education degree for teaching preschool-aged children.
Vital Statistics: In 2007, teachers earned a median salary of $47,330, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- ISO the Sweetest Things
Life as a pastry chef can be pretty sweet. After all, what could be more inviting than a warm kitchen filled with the scent of baking bread or rising cakes? Pastry chefs and bakers may have to get up early, but the opportunity for culinary creativity can offset this minor inconvenience. If you're feeling entrepreneurial and have some experience under your belt, you might even consider opening your own shop.
Icebreaker: To connect with this career you need an associate degree in baking and pastry arts. Certification by the American Culinary Foundation can open the door to a high-end job.
Vital Statistics: BLS states median salaries for chefs in 2007 were $37,160. Salary.com reports 50 percent of executive pastry chefs earn between $46,037 and $68,972 per year.
- Must Love Dogs
Here's the career for the animal lover. You'll find satisfaction in working with the critters in your care. You may also build warm relationships with their owners. Alongside a licensed veterinarian, you'll provide the routine medical care and checkups that help Fido live a longer, healthier life.
Icebreaker: To connect with this career you need an associate degree in veterinary technology.
Vital Statistics: In 2007, the median salary for veterinary technicians was $27,970. The BLS predicts excellent job prospects, with 41 percent job growth through 2016.
- Wanted: Man or Woman of Mystery
Are you addicted to the thrill of the chase? Are you looking for a little drama and intrigue? Then forensic science may be your match. You'll perform tests and analysis that unravel crimes. You may even be called to testify in court.
Icebreaker: To connect with this career you need a bachelor's degree in forensic science.
Vital Statistics: The BLS shows median salary for forensic scientists to be $47,680 in 2007. Job prospects are good as well, with the BLS predicting much faster than average growth in this field.
- Likes Playing Games
This one was made for the Peter Pan of the Internet generation. Video game designers get paid to play -- you need to know your competition after all. You'll put your programming and designing skills to use creating characters and the worlds they inhabit.
Icebreaker: To connect with this career you need a bachelor's degree in computer science or game design.
Vital Statistics: According to the International Game Developers Association, the average annual salary for designers is $57,500. Top designers can earn up to $200,000 per year.
Not Just Another Crush
Once you think you're ready to go steady, how will you keep your eye from wandering? Use these criteria, and possibly a few of your own, to help you determine if this is the one that was meant to be.
- Will it offer opportunities for growth? New challenges keep you involved and invested in your job. What are your options for growth in your position or promotion within the company? Do they offer tuition reimbursement for career training?
- Does the salary range fit your lifestyle? Numerous studies, including one on merit pay for teachers, found that better pay does not necessarily lead to increased job satisfaction. However, working weekends or evenings to pad your paltry paychecks can quickly lead to burnout.
- Do you click with the culture? When you interview, it is important to take note of the pace and personality of your potential office. A high-stress environment can bring out the best in some and make others run for cover.
The Upside of Settling Down
A few things happen when you stick around. Seniority can equal job security -- no trifling matter in these uncertain economic times. With more experience comes greater trust. Your superiors may be more likely to tap you to work on engaging projects and challenging initiatives. Tenure can mean getting the first crack at the best assignments or schedules. Then there are the people. Long-term friendships with coworkers and clients can make going into the office seem less like, well, work.
