What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up?

High school graduation, and you haven't a clue what you're going to do now that you've left high school. Should you go to college? Become a teacher, doctor, singer?

Your parents and teachers have been questioning you. Now it's time to question yourself. What do I want to do?

If you're undecided, don't despair. Here are a few ideas to help you choose a lifelong career that will suite your personality, needs and most importantly, bring you happiness in life.

1. Make a list of the things you like to do. Ask yourself, "What am I really passionate about?" "What types of activities really turn me on?" Make a list of 5 things you love most.

2. Take a college aptitude test. Sounds boring, but it's actually quite fun. It will reveal a lot about yourself that you might not have realized before. It will place your interests in categories such as communications, business, clerical, sciences, working outdoors or in the arts, etc.

3. Find a mentor in a couple of the fields you chose. Find someone who is already a professional in the area of your interest. Question them about why they love the profession or perhaps some of the challenges of their chosen field. What do they like best about their jobs? The least? Then ask yourself, "Will this career suit my personality? In my personal life, do I find myself naturally leaning toward this profession?"

Some things to consider when choosing a career are: if you're a morning person obviously a career where you need to work at night might not suit you. Or if you are a person who loves to be with people, a job that requires you to work alone might not be to your liking. Keep in mind that no matter what career you choose, you can always change your mind later. Studies show that people usually change careers at least once or twice in their lives. Make sure that what you choose brings you happiness. If you love doing it, more than likely it is a great choice for you. ©Kimberly Kimmel