Exploring employment options and making decisions about your career are some of the most important things to consider as you are planning your future.
Knowing your employment options allows you to make rational, informed decisions, should an employment situation no longer meet your needs. The keys will be:
- Flexibility and creativity to make adaptations in the way you do your job.
- Willingness to seek accommodations.
- Interest in changing the type of work you do, if necessary.
- Openness to taking on the challenge of training or education (.pdf).
No one is saying that these decisions will come easy. Work defines our self-image. When asked about ourselves, we often say, “I am a carpenter, teacher, accountant, etc.” Work is a big part of defining who we are, our role in our community, and how others view us.
When it comes down to it, the decision is yours and yours alone — you know yourself and your situation better than anyone else. Be clear with yourself about what your options are and take the path that works best for you.