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1. What do you feel you do well?
Think about the talents you already know you have, and ask friends and family what they think you’re good at. You might be surprised by what they say and how they see your future.
2. What challenges you in life?
The things that challenge you might be opportunities to improve and move toward your goals. As you conquer these challenges, you might discover areas of interest that you previously overlooked.
3. What do you like to do for fun?
Think about the activities you enjoy and why you enjoy doing them. The things they have in common and the strengths they bring out in you might relate to an unexplored career path.
4. Who are the role models you look up to?
The people you admire—whether they’re celebrities, historical figures, or people you know personally—can tell you something about who you are and what you value. Consider what it is you like about them and how those qualities relate to your future goals.
5. What’s at the top of your bucket list?
Is there a trip, experience, or something else you've always wanted to try? Ask yourself what it is about each activity that interests you and what has prevented you from trying it. Do you find it exciting? What do you expect to get out of it?
6. What accomplishment has made you most proud?
Your answer might have nothing to do with earning good grades or a trophy. It might be the time you stuck up for a friend who needed your help or led a successful fundraiser. What you’re proud of can help you see what defines you and matters most to you.
7. What’s your favorite class or subject to study?
Don’t limit yourself to the subjects that come easiest to you. Think about which classes make you lose track of time. Is it the teacher or the subject matter that holds your interest?
8. What are you most interested in reading about?
The kinds of stories you follow in the news, as well as your favorite books and websites, can help you figure out what really makes you curious and help you find your passion.
9. If you could do any job for a day, what would it be?
Think about which occupations you would want to try. What is it about them that you find so appealing as possible career paths? What would you change to make them fit you better?
10. As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Even if your childhood dreams seem silly now, remembering them may show you what’s always been important to you and help you define what you want out of life.
Now that you can see your future better...
Keep asking yourself questions like these and you’ll make important discoveries about how to see your future. Stay open to the places and interests they lead to. For more self-discovery exercises, read 5 Ways to Find Career Ideas.
FAQ
Think of those activities that you do or topics that you explore simply because they bring you joy. If you can’t imagine how to see your future without them, be sure to make room for them in your plans. Take the BigFuture Career Quiz to determine if there’s a career path that matches.
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Be curious and ask questions, especially about your interests. For ideas on researching careers and several career profiles, read our Guide to Career Exploration. Do your homework now—your future self will thank you.
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Make sure you see your future as more than a paycheck. It’s important to find a career path that aligns with all of your wants and needs as an individual. If you feel like you don't know what to do in the future, read Which Work Values Matter Most—our guide to helping you better understand your principles and beliefs.
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Ask yourself: What’s my future as a whole person? A satisfying career will allow you to thrive as a well-rounded individual, so be sure you’re Setting Different Types of Career Goals. Plot a course for a career that allows you to use and develop all of your skills in the most satisfying way possible.
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It’s impossible to predict life, but when making important decisions, make sure they align with what you envision as a life purpose. If you don’t know what to do in the future, it may be that you haven’t yet defined your passions. It may not be as simple as taking a "what is my future quiz," but with an open mind and some great tools for college and career exploration, you can start now to set yourself up for success as you see your future unfold.
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