3 Ways Career Counselling Helps You Find Your Ikigai
Sangeetha doesn’t know which stream to pick after Class 10. Her parents want her to opt for the science stream and pursue a career in engineering, but she’s unsure if engineering is her calling.
Sharan is confused about which major to choose in college. He knows there are countless career options, but he isn’t sure how to pick the right career one without exploring them all.
>Ritika is in her final year of college and hates her major. She’s stressed and anxious about her future, unsure of which career path to take after graduation.
Rohan has a stable job and earns well but feels unfulfilled. He dreads Mondays and feels stuck in his professional life, unsure of how to move forward.
These scenarios reflect the struggles of many students and professionals in India. Career confusion and lack of direction prevent them from making informed decisions, leaving them frustrated and overwhelmed.
Understanding Ikigai: The Key to a Fulfilling Career
The opposite of career confusion is Ikigai—a Japanese concept that combines iki (life) and gai (worth or benefit). It represents the sweet spot where passion, profession, mission, and vocation intersect, leading to a fulfilling career and life.
Ikigai suggests that you experience true job satisfaction when:
- You do what you love and are good at.
- You get paid for it while also meeting a global need.
However, identifying a career that ticks all these boxes can be challenging. This is where career counselling plays a crucial role in guiding students and professionals toward their Ikigai.
How Career Counselling Helps You Discover Ikigai
A certified career counselor can help you identify your strengths, interests, and potential career options through scientific methods such as psychometric tests. Here are three ways career counselling can bring clarity and direction to your life:
1. Get Unbiased and Expert Guidance
Family and friends often have good intentions but may unintentionally project their biases when advising on career choices. Their recommendations may not align with your skills and interests.
A professional career counsellor provides unbiased insights based on data-driven assessments and real-world career trends. They analyze your aptitude, personality, and interests to suggest the best career options tailored to you.
Additionally, career counsellors have experience guiding numerous individuals, giving them the expertise to understand and address your career concerns effectively.
2. Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
Many students and professionals struggle with self-awareness when it comes to their skills, strengths, and weaknesses. Without this clarity, choosing the right career path becomes difficult.
Through career assessments and one-on-one counseling sessions, a counselor helps you:
- Understand where you excel and where you need improvement.
- Explore career paths that align with your natural abilities.
- Develop skills essential for your chosen profession.
For instance, you might have excellent communication skills, but lack technical expertise. A career counselor can recommend suitable professions and suggest upskilling opportunities to enhance your strengths.
3. Gain Clarity and Confidence in Career Decisions
Career decisions can feel overwhelming, often leading to self-doubt and anxiety. Many professionals stay stuck in unfulfilling jobs because they fear making the wrong move.
Career counselling helps you:
- Develop a clear action plan for your career growth.
- Build the confidence to explore new career opportunities.
- Overcome career-related stress and self-doubt.
With expert guidance, you can reframe your mindset and take proactive steps toward a career that brings you satisfaction and success.
Conclusion
Finding your Ikigai isn’t an overnight process—it requires self-discovery, professional guidance, and informed decision-making. Career counselling empowers students and working professionals with clarity, confidence, and the right tools to build a successful and fulfilling career.
If you’re struggling with career decisions, seeking professional career counselling is the first step toward achieving your dream job and a meaningful life.
Our Services : Career Guidance for 10th std Students, Career Guidance for 12th std Students, Career Counselling for College Students, Career Counselling for Senior Citizens