10 Questions That Will Help You Discover Your Future
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.