When was the last time you completed a self-assessment questionnaire or test? Most people first come across one in high school when they’re exploring what to do with the rest of their lives out in the “real” world. Many never do another one, unless they find themselves looking for a new career and end up having the fortune of talking to a career counsellor (important note: only trust career counsellors who are living or moving closer to their true dreams!). Believe me, it’s way better doing a career assessment as an adult when you have more of a clue about who you are and will be less swayed by the opinions of others.
Going through a self-assessment is something I highly recommend doing every few years.
All of us change over time. Even if we hold similar interests, we grow and learn and come closer to our real preferences and desires. As we develop into adulthood, we are are doing fewer things because we’re supposed to and more things because we want to.
Career assessments provide valuable information on who you are: your skills, interests, preferences, personality and abilities. While many things may appear obvious to you, I am certain you will be pleasantly surprised when you go through this process thoroughly.
The surprise could be a result of discovery things about yourself that you didn’t realize (i.e. I do like math!) or prove to be an affirmation of who you know yourself to be (i.e. I am an artist!). The former could give you confidence to use more of a skill you may have taken for granted to help build your dreams. The latter can offer the encouragement you need to remain committed to your heart’s desire. Or if you’ve really been ignoring your own soul and its gifts, the assessment may show you in black and white that you’re destined to go where your heart can sing. Either way, a full assessment will enhance your career and life by the insight it offers.
I recently went through the Holland Codes, a questionnaire I hadn’t done for years. While I could’ve predicted the general result without doing the questionnaire, the formal process made it so much clearer and more powerful. In the order of their prevalence, my three main codes currently are: Artistic, Enterprising, and Social. What it did for me was affirm that I’m on the right track. I felt good, knowing that I am using many of my top skills and attributes in my work life. They are also reflected in Joi Works, my company, and its services. Living by your DNA cannot help but lead you to success.
What was new as I did the questionnaire this time round was that the artistic piece is now a frontrunner. This was not the case 10 or 20 years ago. It may have been a mere dream, and not one that I would’ve owned, since I’d done little skill building in this area at the time. So I am delighted, knowing that what I feel in my heart and soul is echoed by this rational, methodical test. It gave me back my personal power.
Over the years I have had a wonderful array of potential careers according to the tests I’ve done including: clergy (spirit is of prime importance to me), designer/artist – fashion/graphic/industrial (a path begun, but much more I’d still love to do), career counselor (done it and doing it), public speaker and writer (done it and doing it), director (often been a leader/teacher)…and a few more that make my heart sing.
So, is it time for you to do a self-assessment? Go for it. It’s more fun, fruitful, empowering, and accurate than reading the daily horoscope! It will give you a level of clarity and confidence that you may have forgotten is within your own power. If you’d like my assessment services, go to the career coaching page at Career Joi and book a session. Get ready to reignite excitement for your life.
Know thyself and let it lead you to a life of true fulfillment and meaning.
