Step One: Self-Assessment
This step comprehends to accumulate information about you to assist in making a decision about a career. By formulating an understanding of self (values, interests, aptitudes, abilities, personal traits, and desired life style) you should become aware of the interrelationship between self and occupational choice.Start by:
- Learning interests, abilities, skills, and work values
- Listing accomplishments
- Understanding physical and psychological needs
- Assessing aspirations and motivation level
- Deciphering personal traits and characteristics
As you commence to develop a better understanding of yourself, you will obtain the following competencies:
- Gain self-awareness.
- Improve self-confidence.
- Understand time and stress management.
- Develop personal/professional management skills.
The following list gives concrete examples of ways to gain competencies for self-assessment.
- Take exploratory classes.
- Attend workshops for study skills, time management and stress management.
- Join activity clubs or professional clubs.
- Allow regular time for leisure, hobbies and friends.
- Identify symptoms of stress.
- Identify personality style.
- Identify work values.
- Demonstrate interpersonal skills in expressing feelings and ideas.
- Demonstrate skills in overcoming self-defeating behaviors.
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