Q: My son just graduated from high school. He is an average student. He
doesn’t see a future on the farm given the poor economic prospects.
He’s not sure what he wants to do. How can I help him make plans for
his future?
A: Taking a couple of years to try out different kinds of work might be
an important part of his long-term education.
Young people today may change careers many times during their
lifetimes. Jobs may change completely or disappear by the time they
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become trained for them. Half of what they learn may be out-of-date
before they use it. Given the high cost of education, choosing the
right career is important.
Vitamin C For A Healthy Workplace, by Luke De Sadeleer and Joseph
Sherren, points out the danger of some vocational assessment tools that
look at what you would like to do, but not at the skills you need to do
it. Tackling something impossible only leads to disillusionment and
despair. Linking “being able to do” and “enjoy doing” helps in setting
achievable goals. We all want to work at something we enjoy.
De Sadeleer came up with a MAGIC formula to help people make more
conscious and positive choices in life.
M is for motivation, the motivation to slog through some tough
learning. You often only feel motivated once you start doing something.
Without the drive to succeed, many fail or give up.
A is for your attitude, which needs to be positive, but also realistic.
You need to be your own best friend and your own fan club. Thinking
positively is not only advisable, but necessary for success.
G is for goals, the focus or direction you want to go. It is important
to know where you are heading and why.
I is for insight, knowing, accepting and believing in yourself.
C is for commitment. It means keeping your word. This can be done by
writing out a contract to yourself specifically outlining what you are
deciding to do. A series of short-term contracts is better than a long
one. Only sign it when you completely agree with it and realize you
will honour it.
De Sadeleer suggests sharing the contract with a mentor, someone you
respect, perhaps a family friend or relative. He said the most powerful
commitment not only makes sense in your head but feels right in your
heart and soul.
Vitamin C For A Healthy Workplace, by Luke De Sadeleer and Joseph
Sherren, is published by Creative Bound Inc., $21.95, and can be
ordered at 800-287-8610.
Peter Griffiths is a mental health counsellor based in Prince Albert,
Sask. His columns are intended as general advice only. His website is
www3.sk.sympatico.
ca/petecope.
