Your Career: Chance or Choice?

Maybe I think too much. I attended a wonderful certification program this week and one of the questions posed to the instructor was "Do you think one's career is by chance, or by choice?" Even though there wasn't ample time to delve into this subject area, the question still lingers in my mind. With 21 years as an experienced career professional, I have no definitive, conclusive, for sure and certain answers; only more questions. What do you think? One's career -- chance or choice?

Comments

[Louise Fletcher]

Perhaps it's different for everyone, but for me the answer is definitely "by chance." I fell into an entry-level HR job early in my career. I rose through the ranks and eventually got involved in outplacement as a corporate executive arranging outplacement for soon-to-be-terminated employees. By chance (again) I discovered that I had a gift for helping people to communicate their value in writing and - when I was laid off - I took the plunge and started my own business. So every move has been by chance and yet I know other people who knew what they wanted from being very young.

[Bernie Jansen]

I can't say I had my career planned out. I enjoyed being a programmer but ended up going down the path of Team Lead and Development Manager. It turns out that I was better at leading than coding and have been leading ever since and love it. So, I guess in my case it was mostly chance which I believe to be true for so many people.

[Melissa Steele]

I think alot of good things happen by accident. Many of us start jobs with a direction in mind, but things tend to change during our course of employment. Taking weekend certification courses is a wonderful way to attempt to move up the ranks with out having to go back to school. There are numerous options available in a variety of fields to gain further expertise.
Melissa Steele EducationGuys.com EducationGuys.com

[Andy James]

In a few words; define what you are good at, enhance it with training and knowledge, however, don't turn your back to chances that may be suitable to your other talents and abilities.