Not what you want to do, but what you should do. The basis of this “should” is your natural aptitude – your natural physical or mental capability. To understand the full scope and breadth of your aptitude, attempt many and varied things. Do it all. And then with honest evaluation and feedback in hand, determine what you are truly good at doing. Not what you might want to be good at (e.g., singer, football star, artist, etc.), but what you genuinely excel at and enjoy. Consider the use of one or more aptitude tests to yield helpful personal insight and prompt more effective personal introspection.
As you gain insights into your natural aptitudes, consider what personal and professional competencies (knowledge, skills, and abilities) you might readily develop based on your aptitude. Strive to enhance your knowledge, skills, and behaviors. So…
- Dive in and learn more
- Refine your skills through practice… pursue a level of mastery in your skills
- Try on, and then refine, constructive and gracious personal and professional behaviors
It is not surprising that those who have chosen to ignore opportunities for education and skill development find themselves scared and depressed about facing life without the competencies to effectively do so. Life without tools is appropriately terrifying.
It is also not surprising that those who do embrace opportunities for education and skill development face life’s challenges with greater confidence. Yes, life is their oyster. Build personal competencies based on your natural aptitudes.