Manifest Your Dream Career

Instead of committing yourself to simply “getting ahead,” do some self-reflection and identify a career “sweet spot,” or niche—then pursue that!

Imagine taking a road trip with no map, no GPS and no destination. You will eventually end up somewhere, but not necessarily where you want to be. The same goes for your career.

To manifest your dream career you must be clear on your values, interest, skills and how you want to use your talents. This is also called finding your career Sweet Spot.

Identifying my career sweet spot is what lead me to my dream job as a career strategist. I combined my killer written and verbal communication skills, my values of creativity and freedom along with my interest in career development and passion for helping people achieve their goals. I put them all together and and like magic my career took off.

If you are ready to find your career sweet spot and begin manifesting the job of your dreams? Here's how:

1. Identify your passion and interest.

Ask yourself " what brings me joy and excitement" This is usually a key indicator of what types of task you would enjoy doing in your dream career. Inc.com also suggest asking your self 14 questions to help you identify your passion. Some of the questions include:

What's been a common theme in your life?

What's something that people would say about you in each job you've held?

What skills come to you naturally? How could you possibly use those to make a living? (Get creative, this is just a brainstorming activity.)

What types of things do friends, colleagues, or family usually seek your input for?

Take some time to really think about it and seek input from friends and family if you are stuck.

2. Get clear on your skills, strengths and the types of roles where you can use those skills.

Career Assessments are great tools to help you identify your strengths and what industries or roles where you may be most successful.

Free sites like Onetonline.com will allow you to look up your strongest skills to see which occupations match them best. Visit My Next Move for resources and assessments to help you identify what you want to do for a living.

3. Utilize employer research to identify who will pay for your skills and passion.

According to careeronestop.org employer research is a critical part of the job search process. It can help you:

• Identify companies that may be hiring in your field

• Prepare you for a job interview

• Learn about potential growth of businesses and industries

• Focus your job search on employers that share your values

• Understand how you can apply your skills in a new field

Research has been critical in allowing me to stay marketable. I know where the industry is headed, what the trends are and what areas I need skill development. Research also lets me know what employers may be hiring for roles with my skill set. This has been key for achieving several fulfilling career transitions. Click here to learn more tips for using employer research to execute a winning job search strategy.

Manifesting your dream career is not easy but it is possible if you are committed to doing the work.