Discovering Your Future

By Yosef Solomon on Mar 24, 2010

One of the hardest things for me to do is tell someone what I want to do (Professionally that is). The most popular question I was asked after graduating college was “What’s next?” Or “What do you want to do now.” This question, as obvious as it may sound, sometimes forces us to make decisions we don’t thoroughly believe in. In my case, I told everyone I wanted to go to film school, and I did at the time, but based on various circumstances those plans changed. Honestly, it almost felt like I lied to everyone when I decided against it.

As important as it is to know what you what to do after high school, college, etc… We shouldn’t let the “norm” force us to make a decision right away. By “norm” I’m referring to the over saturated plans of life: Go to college. Graduate. Get a job. Have a family. Live happily ever after. I agree that the faster you know what you want, the faster you will be able to achieve it, but what’s the point if you rush into a bad decision. Try to figure out what it is you really want to do and go for it. Every person’s journey is different and their is no right way to achieve success.

I can’t give specific advice on how to “Discover Your Future” but I think it takes time and experience. I’m a huge advocate for trying out whatever it is you’re interested in. One of the best ways to do this is through internships or on the job experience. For those of you who are already graduated and think it’s too late, think again. Last summer, Grammy award winning rapper/producer Kanye West took an internship with the GAP, as a way to learn the fashion business inside out. Being a highly successful multi-millionaire dollar artist didn’t stop Kanye from chasing his dreams and it shouldn’t stop us either. If you feel like you don’t need the experience and know exactly what you want to do… then do it. As simple as this sounds, many of us get caught up in the social pressures of our industries and don’t want to look a certain way by joining or starting our own endeavor. In the end, its about what you know, who you know and how you are going to execute it. And what better way than through hands-on experience to learn each of these important traits.

Persistence, determination and a strong work ethic are also great recipes for success. As cliche as they may sound each of these qualities, will allow us to gain confidence in the work we do and become leaders in our industry. At the end of the day, it’s really about embracing our work and doing what we want to succeed.