While most people think about their career only in terms of their occupation, as a psychologist, I like the broader, original meaning. The word "career" derives from the French word, carrière, meaning a road, racecourse or path. I encourage you to think about your career search as your search for the path you will follow throughout your life. At some level, isn't this is what life is all about? Think about all of those decisions and choices you make in life--are you making them consciously and do they reflect YOU? Your career choices should reflect your personality, passions, values, interests, abilities, skills and culture.

In other words, the career search is really about finding a way to live your life in a way that reflects the person you are. Naturally, many of you are looking for a job or an education or perhaps a new position or a more satisfying and fulfilling occupation. My approach is to help you do a thorough self-assessment based on your current career stage, whether you are a high school student just beginning to plan your career path or are already feeling burnt out and are feeling the need for a career change.

A career search can invoke many emotions from excitement to intense anxiety and your time table might feel urgent or more relaxed. Whoever you are and wherever you might be in your career, keep in mind that you are already engaged in a career in the broad sense, because you are walking this road of life. Metaphorically speaking, you are on a long expedition searching for the best route to take. As you think about yourself right now, do you like the trail you are on? Is it tough going and treacherous? Is it foggy and unclear? Does it feel like there is nowhere you can go? All of these and more are possibilities. Follow this link for more on career or educational planning.