We spend a lot of time thinking about how to land a dream job. While it’s certainly possible that you will chance into a job that is perfect for you, the reality is that you will likely have to create your own dream job if you are serious about doing what you want.
Tailoring Your Career for “The Man”
First of all, many of us work more “traditional” jobs. This means that we don’t always get to pick our specific job responsibilities. At least, we think that we can’t choose our own job responsibilities.
Depending on where you are, you might actually be able to tailor your career a little bit, even if you work for “the man.” Show yourself capable, and you might be able to suggest a new role. One of the things my husband has done at his new job is show how he can be a good advisor to students. He’s in the process of helping his supervisors write up a new job description that allows him to take on new responsibilities, teach interesting classes, and avoid some of the requirements that come with tenure track. He’ll still receive benefits and full-time status, but he’ll not be tenure-track (which he doesn’t want).
You might also be able to create your own dream job, depending on your company and your bosses. If you could make some changes in your schedule and in your responsibilities so that you can do what matters most to you, and what you are good at, it can make sense to adjust your career.
Even if you can’t make those changes at your current job, you might be able to cultivate skills that would make it possible for you to get closer to that dream job by applying for another position at a different company. Pay attention to what your dream job would look like, and then, little by little, look for positions that will help you develop the skills you need to reach your career goals.
Start Your Own Business
Of course, you might also be able to create your dream job by starting your own business. You can pretty much tailor your dream job when you are the boss. I have my dream job. I get to write, and I can do it on my schedule. I don’t have to write what I don’t want to, and I can set my own rates. It’s a dream for me.
On top of that, it’s been a good way for my husband to have the freedom to explore how to create his own dream job, within the confines of a more traditional job setting. He’s not interested in starting a business, or working from home, and I am, so we have been able to complement each other in our careers.
You don’t have to be resigned to a job you don’t care about. Consider what would be fulfilling in terms of your career, and then figure out what you need to do to make that happen. You might be surprised at the freedom you have to put together the career you want.
