What I Learned About Careers While Growing Up

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When I was younger, I dreamt of being a writer. My love for novels sparked the desire. While reading Danielle Steel, Barbara Taylor and Bernette G. Ford fuelled it.

It was a custom to find me nestled in a cushion, reading "The Little Rascals”, “The Famous Five” or less-complicated stories like “Just Us Women”.

I loved the reality of living in two worlds. I wanted to create my own universe as well, with only my pen, a witty mind and scrap papers.

What I Learned About Careers While Growing Up

• You Need Knowledge

Nobody told me that the road was going to be tough. It was going to demand acquiring a degree in English and Literary Studies. That I'd read over 40 novels in one semester's course and analyse them with a scrutinising eye of an eagle.

It never crossed my mind that I'd study the structure of modern English, trace the history of the English language or understand sound change and how the Norman conquest, Black Death and printing press facilitated The Great Vowel Shift.

But what's the essence of building a career without having adequate background knowledge and skills?

Honestly, the process was tough. And the result…? Oh, rewarding!

• Everything Evolves

In this journey, it dawned on me that the world keeps evolving. In order to keep your passion relevant, you must adapt your skills to the changing times.

Take for instance,

• Writers are now Transmedia storytellers
• Doctors are now Telehealth physicians
• Engineers are now Data scientists
• Tailors are now Wearable tech designers
• Fishermen are now Aquaculturists
• Lawyers are now Data Privacy Officers
  And politicians…? 😉

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My Advice for Young People Who Desire to Pursue Any Career

1. No Knowledge is Useless

Many people conclude that acquiring a degree in some traditional fields is completely worthless. You hear them say, “Why study Law when you can become a web developer?”

But do not be deceived. Every knowledge is relevant.

• First, conduct your research to identify the opportunities available.
• Next, embrace innovative thinking. Aproko Doctor took Medicine a notch higher by transforming health communication through the use of social media. What's stopping you from exploring new roles?

What's more important now is building the skills relevant to your niche, not necessarily relying on the certificates.

2. Career is all about growth

Building a career demands continuous improvement. It's an endless cycle of skill development. You'd move from being a random accounting clerk to Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

3. Gain real-world experience:

Apprenticeships and internships will help you build both your network and proficiency. Make good use of your school vacations as much as you can.

4. Soft skills beats technical skills as you progress

Maintaining a good relationship with others has greater gain in helping you excel in whatever field you desire. If you doubt me, then ask that colleague who got a referral to work in ExxonMobil. Your integrity, conflict management abilities, reliability and professionalism are the “long legs” you need to enter those uncommon places.

Memory Game and Careers

My muse behind this post was the memory game. When I checked the site this week, it gave me fuller clarity on a thought that I felt like sharing with young people some days ago.

_{It felt tough. But I'd give myself more time to pick up my speed again.}
While playing, I asked myself, “What are the secrets to succeeding in any career?” These are the four answers that I gave to myself.

Is there something that I've left out?