Non-traditional pursuits begin with you

So many people today are struggling to find rewarding pursuits. It’s rarer now that people will settle into one position in one place for life. The thing is, everyone wasn't destined to follow traditional routes. You may not feel drawn to what other people do. You might have even tried some of these or other options already, sensed it wasn't for you and wondered what else was out there. Don't despair! It's never too late to exert influence on the evolution of your job or career. 

Ask yourself these preliminary questions: 

• What’s do you think is the problem with what you do now?
• How would you describe your talents and skills?
• Which tasks would you like to perform?
• Where do you imagine yourself working? How might you research jobs that would suit you?
• When would you plan to make the professional move?

• Why aren't you taking steps to get there?

As you learn to isolate your interests and identify your particular abilities, you will be surprised at what kinds of job options you will discover. Magicians, circus acrobats and unique artists may not be traditional careers, and yet, individuals in these and other disciplines can refine their dreams.

You may have heard of a businessman who gave up his management position to take up playing the jazz sax in a musical band.  What about the 2007 Australian Idol, Damien Leith, who is a pharmacist now turned international singer? Rock singers have moved on to work as alternative television producers. Bodybuilders have been known to follow film careers.   Jim Henson didn't grow up knowing he would become a well-known puppeteer. Mother Teresa wasn't born a nun.  Steve Irwin evolved into a zookeeper of dangerous animals.  Many other options exist as well.

Consider what is in your heart and listen to your innermost desires.   If money and circumstances were no object, what would you choose? As you learn to recognize what activities boost your energy level, you can shape these into part of a dream job.  Talk to people about your ideas. Find people who will support and encourage you. Together, you can figure out how to make things happen.