Leonard Holmes, former About.com Guide, once said "Good decisions are made with the head and the heart". We make better decisions when we use our conscious mind together with our unconscious mind.

Everyday, starting from the time we woke up, we are starting to make decisions. What to wear, what to eat for breakfast, what to do next are some of our daily decisions. Although simple as it is, we still have to do it right.

One of the most critical decision is with regard to the nature of work we want to deal with. It is simply taking the risks, exploring and experiencing the world of work. Significantly, our chosen field plays a vital role in self identification, individual maturity, facing the responsibilities and most of all the fact that we are a productive member of the society. There is a saying that "Tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are". In some way, this is relevant to our chosen carrer. Our name plates and titles determine who we are and what is our role/s in the society. Our work is one of our main source of existence. Positions, levels, ranks, job descriptions, etc. are just among the major factors on how we categorized the career that we had right now. Is it a success, failure, frustration or regrets?

But whatever position that we have right now, looking back from where we had started, do we have to smile because we did it in all our best efforts and we strive hard for this, or, the other way around? It's everybody's prerogative that's why we are given the power to choose or otherwise, no option are left available for us.

If we are going to ask our elders (not those with martial law style), to what career we are going to choose, they always say that "choose one that will make you happy, fullfilled and contented". For a young mind who just wanted to work to support whatever responsibilities that we have, it is not considered as an option. I know a lot will say it is true, because it is really true! There are those who are fortunate enough to buy time to play "mi ni mi ni mo". But what about those who are opportunity grabber? Those who are much in-need?

According to peachnet.edu, making career decisions is a lifelong process. It is also about understanding your abilities, interests, skills, and values and combining these to create a meaningful framework for life. You will have many opportunities to discover and rediscover careers that match your changing lifestyle. It is important that you are an active participant in this decision-making process.

Also, decision-making begins with you, your awareness of the world around you, and your ability to understand what is important to you. The following checklist may help you begin:
1. Learn about yourself: interests, abilities, skills, and values
2. Observe individuals in the workplace
3. Talk with family and friends about their work experiences
4. Collect information about specific careers and companies
5. Experience different careers through volunteer or part-time work, or school internship, co-op, and apprenticeship programs

Never put yourself in a situation that won't give you other choice. Always hold the thought that there is still something that might be better than what you have right now.

Never put yourself in a work place that makes you feel like a POW! A prisoner of war, because it is you who will suffer. It is great enjoying your working time and never notice that it is already time to go home, rather than waiting the clock hand to be at 5 o'clock.
--- Xyke