Why You Should Stop Searching for Your “Dream Job”

We are always taught from a young age to have a “dream job”, but have you ever considered how that mindset might affect your job search and your professional career? For many, that search for the perfect job can be grueling, exhausting, and impossible. Even when they find it, they realize it’s not all that it’s cracked up to be.

So why put yourself through the wringer and let your happiness be dependent on your career?

Destination versus Journey

People often spend so much time waiting for the end result that they often ignore the process. And yet, this process is where all the excitement occurs. With each project you work on and each position you hold, you are gaining valuable experiences and skills that will take you forward in your career. Even if you decide to change career paths, you will carry that knowledge with you, and that will shape who you are professionally. Of course, it is good to have goals, but it’s also important to recognize how the work you do brings you one step closer to those goals.

Too Much Pressure

When creating career goals, you must consider feasibility. Don’t set goals that are far out of reach, or force yourself to achieve something that you might not be ready for. Instead, focus on what your strengths are, and how you might be able to leverage them. If you put too much pressure on yourself, you will simply end up unhappy, no matter the job.

You Are Constantly Evolving

What you consider to be your dream job right now might not be your dream job in ten years. As you continue to gain professional knowledge and experience, you might discover new things that you like, or you might realize you hate what you thought you loved. So while you may have a “dream job” in the back of your mind, be open to new possibilities and try new things. You might be surprised what you find. Above all, enjoy the journey of discovery!