Finding the right career is a journey — 3 strategies for success

By Amie Agamata

I found myself on a fast track to becoming a financial planner when I was barely 19 years old and a sophomore in college studying finance.

An opportunity to work with a Wealth Management Advisor presented itself, and while I knew nothing about financial services, I saw it as a chance to build my resume. During school breaks, I studied for securities and insurance license exams. By the time I graduated, I was well on my way toward a career that I still wasn't entirely sure was right for me.

However, my family encouraged me to continue down the path since I was already so far ahead, and at some point, I convinced myself it was what I wanted. After nearly ten years of serving clients and becoming a Certified Financial Planner and member of the alphabet soup club, I finally was honest with myself - it was time to change trajectory and find a career that I was more passionate about.

If you or your client(s) are feeling similar to how I was - unsure of your current career or career path, here are three things that helped me during my decision-making process:

1) Start paying attention to what drains you vs. what gives you energy. There's a difference between dreading going to work every day and finding some of your career responsibilities less enjoyable than others.

Take note of how you feel each day versus during and after specific tasks. Creating a pros and cons list of your daily activities, including any extracurricular or volunteer positions, may be revealing. Your list may help determine if your career or current employer/company needs further evaluation.

For example, it may be time to look for a new company if you love financial planning and working with clients but have outgrown your current firm. On the other hand, if you dislike most of the responsibilities of your current role and career, it may be time to switch paths altogether. Ultimately, it is essential to clearly understand what's contributing to your well-being versus diminishing it.

Writing things down helps clear your mind and allows you to make better decisions. It will likely take some time to realize what your next step should be. And that's perfectly fine. Take your time to write down as much as possible, even if that means continuing to add to your list over days or months. Only you can decide what is in your best interest.

2) Get an outside opinion from someone you trust and respect. While you will be the one to make the final decision, it's sometimes helpful to get a second opinion, especially around career advice. Look to speak with someone you trust, respect, and admire, whether that's someone in your industry or another field.

Someone in your industry will understand your career path options more intimately—however, someone in a different line of work may be helpful for general guidance. Speak to more than one person for diversity in thought. Think about who you know through associations, family friends, or connections on LinkedIn!

I've personally received messages on LinkedIn from strangers looking for career advice, and I enjoy giving back my time. My only caution is to reconsider speaking to colleagues or clients at your current company, as there may be a conflict of interest. It's best to get an unbiased opinion from someone not directly impacted by your decision.

3) Listen to your gut. This one is easier said than done; in my experience, I ignored it for years. When you feel that everyone around you is more excited about your career trajectory than you are, consider that as a sign to rethink your future.

I felt uneasy and unsure whenever somebody mentioned business succession planning. Talking about potentially taking over someone's business didn't feel authentic. Looking back, what I was feeling was a strong indicator that I was on the wrong path. However, accepting that feeling is sometimes hard when you view it as an opportunity, but just because something is a good opportunity doesn't mean it's right for you.

Knowing who you are, what's important to you, and what you want from your career and life is essential. And, when you have a strong understanding of your values and goals, it makes it easier to accept your truth. Your gut will become harder to silence because ignoring it harms your well-being and those around you.

Give yourself grace

My last piece of advice is to give yourself grace if and when you decide to take the next move. Choosing to look for a new job is a big decision, let alone switching careers altogether. Be proud of yourself when you figure out what you want to do next, as moving on takes a lot of thought, especially if you've invested time in your current craft.

Know that it'll be challenging, and you'll have to remind yourself to be patient as you develop a new skill set. However, it's essential to recognize change is uncomfortable but necessary for growth. Try to embrace the challenges of your new role even though you may feel overwhelmed initially.

If you find yourself doubting your decision after the fact, don't give up and revert to what you did before without giving it your best shot for a substantial period, at least a year or so. You owe it to yourself to fully commit to your decision without looking back on the easy way out.

Amie Agamata is a CFP in San Diego, CA. She is the NexGen Chair for the Financial Planning Association, nationally.

FPA NexGen, a community of the Financial Planning Association® (FPA®), aims to provide support and collaboration for those professionals new to the financial planning profession. With more than 2,500 like-minded young professionals, members of FPA NexGen are ready to share their experiences and further the future of the financial planning profession. Learn more about our engaged community and join the conversation on Twitter.