who are your influencers?
Social media influencers are everywhere. We get lured into their world and before long we feel like our own lives don’t measure up to the lives we see on our screens. Comparisons to other people are generally not very helpful to our personal development, and I would argue, not healthy for our mental wellbeing. However, from a careers perspectives, social media influencers could offer some motivation and inspiration, if we view them through a reality lens.
Consider for a moment: who is a celebrity you admire? Why do you admire them? Wishing your life could be as ‘amazing’ as their life is futile. Your life will never be anything like their life. Instead, why not do some research into how that celebrity achieved their success, status or lifestyle - whatever it is that you aspire to. I bet you discover they were not the overnight success they appear to be, and I am sure that years of dedication, hard work and goal setting are the foundations for their success. More importantly, I am sure they had the support of a community of people -- family, friends, mentors and coaches. So, ignore the glamour and model the hard work and dedication to a goal.
Who are the other influencers in have in your life? Take a moment to think about your family, friends, community, coaches, teachers. These people know you well, and you probably already seek their advice in matters. Thinking like your favourite celebrity for a moment, how can this team of people support you on your career journey? Consider the following:
Why did my coach give up their job as a lawyer to become a coach and what do they like best about being a coach?
Does my dad think his university degree helped him get where he is today?
If my mum had her time at school again, would she choose the same subjects? would she choose the same career pathway?
My older sister’s friend is taking a gap year, I’m going to ask her why.
You already have a network of people around you who have a wealth of life experience. This doesn’t mean you have to accept their advice. Just listen to what they have to say, ask questions, do your own research and make up your own mind about the direction you want to go. This is called a career conversation - it’s as easy as that.
Now, let’s be honest. Not everyone has a network of people around them, or they feel they can not talk to anyone in their network. There are plenty of places to reach out for advice, and I have listed a couple below.
Headspace - mental health services for young people
We the Differents - high school and life advice
I wish you all the best with your career conversations.