Finding a Career That Fits: Why Your Skills and Joy Matter →

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Reports show that the average person changes careers 12 times throughout their life. With an ever-expanding array of career options, nearly 30% of the workforce changes jobs or careers every year. It's a reflection of modern workplace realities—employees no longer expect to stay at one job for life, and employers often no longer view their teams as permanent fixtures.

Traditionally, job seekers have been passive—taking time to research companies, reflect on their goals, and engage with networking contacts. Likewise, many employers have taken a patient approach, waiting for the right candidate whose strengths, values, and experience align with the position. Good employers understand that hiring for fit—not just skills—leads to happier, more productive teams.

But if you’re unhappy in your current role, passivity may not serve you well. Being inspired to make a change is important, but taking action—in a focused, intentional way—is what creates real opportunity. The goal isn't simply to leave your current job; it's to move toward something better.

That "better" is often what people describe as their dream job. But how do you define it? It starts by examining your own story. Why do you want to move on? What do you value? What skills do you have, and more importantly—which ones do you enjoy using?

A simple yet powerful exercise is to make two lists:

1. Skills you’re good at

2. Skills you enjoy using

Then, look for the overlap. Jobs that require the skills sitting at the top of both lists are more likely to be satisfying and sustainable. That sweet spot—where competence meets passion—is often where your dream job lives.

Of course, you may find job opportunities that excite you but require skills you don’t yet have. That’s not a dealbreaker—it’s a chance to grow. The key is to distinguish between skills you can and want to learn versus those that feel like a stretch or don't align with your strengths. A job requiring skills you're unlikely to master—or enjoy—probably won’t be a good long-term fit.

Another factor is perception. Fair or not, many employers view currently employed candidates as more desirable. They’re seen as still in demand, as opposed to unemployed applicants who may come across as overly eager—even when they're well qualified. Employers may misinterpret enthusiasm as desperation, rather than authentic interest.

This is why it helps to position yourself strategically. Whether employed or not, your resume and your interactions should clearly show that you:

• Understand what the company needs

• Have relevant, matching skills

• Are enthusiastic—but not dependent—on landing the job

In Summary

Success in today’s job market is about alignment:

• Doing what you love

• Doing what you’re good at

When you can clearly identify the skills that sit at the intersection of passion and proficiency, you’ll be in a much stronger position to find work that feels like more than just a job—it will feel like a calling.