Did you ever realise that you chose the wrong career?

LSandman2019 on 08/11/2019 - 22:45
Last edited 08/11/2019 - 22:45

Long story short - i'm 25 years old, nearly 26. I chose a degree in accounting and finance for the wrong reasons. I was influenced by my family an also by the job security/money.
Having spent a few years in the accounting field i think it's safe to say that i hate it. I feel pretty annoyed that i've wasted so much time in a career and a job i don't like. I've hardly made any progress in my career as i have no motivation to improve or do better.
It's starting to hit me now. I don't want to go back to uni but at the same time i don't really know what else to do. I don't really have any passions anymore.
I've done a few career tests online but i seem to get varied responses. Each test seems to give me different answers.

Has anyone else ever been in a similar scenario? how did you find out what you wanted to do as a career?

Education & Work

Comments

    • newbiesh on 10/11/2019 - 16:27
      +1

      Legit or?

  • newbiesh on 10/11/2019 - 16:26

    At the end of the day All the jobs are the same I reckon, I chose my field myself and loving but but still would rather bad day fishing than a good day at work

  • r3volt on 10/11/2019 - 16:36

    Youre only 25. I wished i listened to myself when i was younger but here i am, 35 and in my second year of part time study at uni while working full time as builder/carpenter. If youre not happy, move into something else. Money is important, but i feel unfulfilled in what i currently do and would rather earn less and do something which gives my life some meaning.

  • Eevee on 10/11/2019 - 16:44

    I'm in the same position. Young and living with my parents.

    For most people, a job is necessary as they need the money to live. They may have kids, bills to pay etc.

    But if you are like me and money isn't a priority or the main reason why you want to work, then take risks. After working a few years, I thought this career wasn't for me either and I couldn't see it changing drastically in the future. So I thought hard about what sorts of things I liked to do and why I liked to do it.

    For many people, they might think "hey I like to play games" or "watch dramas" so how does that relate to a job? Well there are certain things I could see within my hobbies which stood out. I found myself often "theorycrafting" and analysing in games - to optimise. I always found myself focused on the game when playing with friends and being the shotcaller.

    So I sort of took this and interpreted as someone who likes to analyse, problem solve and make things efficient. It then struck me that programming is something that would be exciting to do and I did love it back in highschool. So a low-risk option was for me to learn programming in my own time and try to make a few programs for work. I ended up enjoying it and eventually I got down the path of going back to studying programming full time so I can just focus on it.

    I'd suggest you have a hard think about what things you like and what sorts of career would fit you. You'll end up working for many decades. There's no point in working your life away with something you hate. Some people are just satisfied with money, but to me a career means something much more. You are young and hopefully don't need the money, so take risks whilst you still can before money (and a job) catches up to you as too important to let go.

    • Sandman2019 on 10/11/2019 - 17:18

      thanks really appreciate it
      I just still get annoyed though, wish i made this decision 4 years ago/thought about it more, now i'm nearly 26 and i don't want to spend my time studying a new degree but at the same time you're right i don't want to get stuck doing something i hate.

      • Eevee on 10/11/2019 - 17:33

        I think for most students, you never know what you wanted to do.

        They force it upon us to choose something in highschool so we can pick the right subjects and then pick the right course at university. But for most of us, we probably had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. We just did whatever we could.

        I was also annoyed, but you just have to accept that 4 years ago, you wouldn't have a clue or experience on what it would be like when you starting working and most people don't. I also didn't want to study again because of time and money, but I just chose a course that I thought was quick (2 years) and was cheap with a commonwealth support place and was postgraduate so it didn't felt like I was doing something like a cert IV.

  • portard on 10/11/2019 - 17:02

    I did a degree in accounting & finance as well, didn't study hard as I played a lot of games and had a shitty average. Eventually ended up in auditing at a mid-tier. Hated my life and quit my job after 4 months as a grad, I was only 21 at the time. I hated it for the same reasons as you, it was incredibly dry and repetitive, spreadsheets all day long and really mundane tasks that you didn't even need a degree to do. It was basically a glorified data entry monkey. Went back to university to study computer science and it has been the best decision of my life. The industry is exciting, growing non stop, and the culture in tech companies is so so different.

    It's never too late, I've met so many people who do a total career change or go back to uni in their late 20s or early 30s. I couldn't see myself being an accountant or being in that industry for the rest of my life and I knew I had to swap out.
    You may not be able to commit 2-3 years for another degree but sometimes it's the only way, sadly a lot of jobs still require that piece of paper. If you're interested in doing IT/software development at all, then you can look into coding bootcamps which usually range from 12-24 weeks and can either be part-time or full-time. Feel free to ask me anything, I know exactly how you must be feeling right now.

    • Sandman2019 on 10/11/2019 - 17:16

      thanks really appreciate it!
      I'm glad you found something you like
      are you currently working in IT/software development?

      • portard on 10/11/2019 - 17:31

        I'm just about to have my final exams to finish off my degree, I've done a few internships as a software dev and have confirmed with myself that this is what I want to be doing. Both salary and worklife balance have been major improvements from my old job.

  • etns on 10/11/2019 - 17:26

    Has anyone else read the book “so good they can’t ignore you” by Cal Newport on this subject? I thought it was a nice perspective of finding what you’re good at rather than what you “love”. What do others think about that?

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:24

      should i buy this book?

      • etns on 12/11/2019 - 18:48

        It was an interesting book - it helped remind me to focus on the key skills of creating valuable work, rather than focusing on some vague notion of finding some elusive job I am "passionate" about. Nothing groundbreaking but if you're looking for something to read it's a really well-reviewed book.

  • [Deactivated] on 10/11/2019 - 17:26

    There is no such thing as a secure job, everything can be outsource to somewhere someone cheaper and faster and automated. Welcome to reality. Learn how to sell, not based on price but based on value.

  • Donaldhump on 10/11/2019 - 18:10

    i think the majority of jobs are boring after a while,but gotta pay the bills.

    my job career is ok, but doesnt excite me like it once did. However i sit in aircon, in shorts, sleep in every day. i would hate to be outside working, but then again people doing that say the oppisite.

    id love to chuck it in one day and run a farm or something, but death will beat me to it.

    for the record : try working in the public servive, everyone in there checkedout 1 week after they started.

  • mousie on 10/11/2019 - 18:15

    OP, you should be proud that you've done your degree and got a job. Not everyone has a degree.

    Sounds like you need a spark as it's not rewarding for you.

    I'm on my third change and settled in nicely, each of my transitions initially was helped by my previous change from Desktop Support to Data migrations and Sap implementations to my current managerial role. Driven mostly by need rather than greed, and yes confortable at the moment touch wood.

    You just have to want to sacrifice something to get what you want.

  • frowq on 10/11/2019 - 18:20
    +1

    I'm in a similar situation. I have a degree in IT and I worked as a sys admin for a small company which I didn't love and I switched careers, did an abseiling course and have been doing window cleaning and some trade jobs in the city for the past year. It's physical and weather dependent but I enjoy it. Every now and again I will think about going back to IT and an office job but starting from the ground because of the little experience seems daunting.
    Instead I'll be doing a wind farm blade repair course and try to find a job in Europe next year.
    Life's weird like that.

  • RedMed on 10/11/2019 - 19:30

    Ha.

    You're going down the same path I did at about the same age, just that I was Big 5 (back then) but same area of tax. I knew it was time to go when a manager declared they "loved" tax. I didn't but I admired their desire (they're now doing very well at the top of the ATO). So I decided to follow my creative passion even though I was doing quite well in my position. There are less than five of my graduate group still in the business and they all had the drive to make partner. The rest of us either diversified away from accounting firms or left altogether and went off to things as diverse as fashion design and the UN.

    I literally started at the bottom all over again and went into an industry a lot of people think would be a dream role. Considering I had no contacts and no experience I've done pretty well. Ironically it was my big firm experience as a complete outsider that helped A LOT. And while it is fun and definitely doesn't feel like 'work', had I known just had mediocre the pay can be,the job uncertainty and the long term prospects for the industry as a whole I might have thought twice. Even after all this time I'm always pondering other industries or opportunities. The thing about jumping cold from a safe job is that you're no longer hesitant to try different things!

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:10

      What do you do?

      • RedMed on 11/11/2019 - 21:41

        I work with the colourful personalities in TV these days. Watch Frontline if you want a good sense of what it's like.

  • syousef on 10/11/2019 - 20:18

    You say you don't have any other passions, so how is this the wrong career? It's not as if you were wishing you were doing something else. Unless thn something you want to be is a bum?

    I think you need to adjust your expectations. Earning money in most jobs is not about going to work for fun. At the same time if your job is truly soul destroying, you need to work out what it is you want to do that wouldn't be like that. Unfortunately I don't think taking a bunch of quizzes will help. Go and actually work out what you would do if you didn't have to earn a living but still wanted to be useful. Then work out if there's a way to make a living doing that or something similar and whether you're willing to take a potential pay cut to do it. If you're not even willing to study I'd say the problem is likely that you want something that doesn't exist to fall into your lap.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:12
      +1

      Thanks appreciate the advice

      • syousef on 11/11/2019 - 20:05

        Any time. Hopefully between all the varied advice here and elsewhere, you start to find your own path.

  • Tuesdaygal on 10/11/2019 - 20:55

    Have you considered teaching? Accounting and Business Management are dynamic subjects to teach and you'll be in an environment that will challenge you and hopefully give you job satisfaction. Don't forget the 11 - 12 weeks of holidays annually.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:13

      I have. I thought about being a PE teacher because i've always liked sport but i'm not sure i heard it's over saturated.

      • Tuesdaygal on 11/11/2019 - 21:36

        Plenty of opportunities in schools to take up coaching of sports teams and if you prove yourself in that area, you can always ask to teach PE. Most PE classes are run as combined classes anyway so you will be team teaching with other staff members. Also when you do a teaching degree, you generally will have two subjects as your methods, you can always combine Accounting with PE.

  • wombat81 on 10/11/2019 - 22:44
    +3

    It's very common, dude. I did an IT degree straight out of high school because it seemed like the right thing to do. I was good at IT in high school, the dotcom bubble was imminent. It made sense. I got through the degree and started working in IT and hated it. There was no job security, everything was contracts. To get a permanent job you needed 10 years experience. I just didn't enjoy the lifestyle. Long hours. Long commutes to the Brisbane CBD. The work itself didn't motivate me.

    My partner was a high school teacher. I had never entertained teaching. I saw myself as an introvert with no presence who would be hopeless trying to teach anyone anything. But I began doing some training of other staff in my IT job and actually quite enjoyed it. My partner and I sat down and thought about it and how great it would be to have the same holidays and I decided to give it a crack. If I didn't like the first prac I'd go back to IT and re-think. I did an 18 month Grad Bachelor and came out qualified to teach math and IT to year 12. That was over 10 years ago now and I'm still teaching. I regard myself as a high quality teacher and somewhat of a leader in my sector. I wouldn't say I LOVE my job, like some people do, but it is rewarding and I do, generally, enjoy it.

    Anyhow, I'm not suggesting you should become a teacher (but I guess you could explore it) but reaching this point in life and losing direction is common, but there are options. Think about what elements of your job you do like, even a little bit, and think about how you can do more of that.

    Good luck.

    • fossilfuel on 10/11/2019 - 23:20

      I agree. I did an undergrad in psychology then postgrad with dual qualifications in teaching/counselling. Dreaded my first teaching prac but honestly I enjoyed it and it was so rewarding. Something about it boosted my confidence and competence. Especially when several of my students told me something along the lines of "I used to hate Geography but you made it fun and now I love it." That sealed the deal. Second prac became a breeze. Now I'm finalising my proficient teacher accreditation and undergoing registration as a psychologist.

      Have another mate who worked as an accountant overseas for 10+ years, went stuff it and did a postgrad teaching degree. Now he teaches Commerce, Economics and Business studies. He loves his job, he teaches extremely well, enjoys challenging his class and his students are getting top marks across all cohorts. He's also able to achieve relatively good work life balance. He blitzes through his marking, programming and creating resources in the first week of the school holidays then chills in the second week.

    • wombat81 on 10/11/2019 - 23:55

      I should add, too, that I don't feel like my first degree was a waste of time, money and effort because I'm still using the skills I learned. I believe I'm a better teacher having taken the path I have than someone who did an ed degree straight out of high school.

  • leeweesquee on 11/11/2019 - 04:59
    +2

    All too common. Studied to be a social worker. Realised the world is full of pricks and beauracracy. Decided for retail.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:19

      I actually miss my retail job not joking.
      I worked at Rebel sport for a while an i enjoyed it more than being an accountant i'm not joking
      Got to be on my feet all day, got to to help different people, had a bit on pressure on sales but it was okay. Came home each day happy. Also worked with young cool people

      • Tuesdaygal on 11/11/2019 - 22:10

        Maybe stop stressing about having a career and just be open to whatever job opportunities that pop up. I have worked in the following sectors - hospitality, retail, education, tourism, gaming, banking, finance and disability. I loved all the jobs that I've had and financially I haven't been disadvantaged either. So, be optimistic, be positive and good luck!

  • ilikeradiohead on 11/11/2019 - 05:58

    Hey OP, I'll chime in with my 2c here.
    I was in a similar position a few years ago. Hated my job, couldn't see any prospect for advancement. I probably realised this after 3 years at my work, but it took me a couple more to actually do something about it, which in hindsight seems wasted.

    I decided to completely change my life and applied to do an MBA in the US. Im's halfway through me second and final year now. It's been a pretty tough slog, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, with a more satisfying and higher paying job, and the sort of opportunities I would have never had if I had stayed in Perth.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:20

      wow that's incredible , thanks for the comment

  • squaredonut on 11/11/2019 - 06:18

    This seems to be a normal thing for a lot of people. Some people are fortunate (myself included) to land in a career where I enjoy it. But I think one thing people need to see through in their career and life is that not everyone will find a job that they enjoy, or at least one that pays them to survive.

    I think you need to ask yourself if there are factors that make you hate your job and approach it from that point of view. I see society being sold a fake narrative that's influenced by Hollywood. You see people who aspire to be lawyers or doctors because it's depicted like it's so cool profession that brings in girls, the money, etc, but in reality not everyone will lead that protagonist's path.

    I studied Computer Science in uni, and when I graduated the only thing that was on my mind was being a sheep and following the crowd with graduate openings. Sure enough I received one, but I ended up going into a company where I was based in a office that was not in the CBD and I had to drive everyday and everyone one around me was like 50 years old (no exaggeration), I dreaded that for 5 months, because I thought to myself, I can't get along with these people who are all looking at retirement and ones who don't want to advance or learn new things.

    I realised that I wanted that lifestyle where it seemed cool, I wanted to be in the CBD, in an office with young people, do fly in and fly outs because you know it's so cool to wake up early and fly on a plane and then fly back home with crowds. Stay back very late at work with my peers cause that specific company was renowned for doing so.

    So I did for a year and I realised again I was buying into this fairy tale of where I viewed a great career and ideal job was. Then I started realising, you know it's strange, I'm working so hard, paid peanuts, and it's not that great, what do I really want? Sat down and thought it through, and having a partner who I wanted to spend time with, I wanted time and stability, and work in something that I am still capable doing that can offer me that. So again I changed jobs, it went from consulting to programming. Found a 9-5 job, work was more tangible, I know what I have to deliver, I now have work life balance and as I get older that's what I realised was more important, and soon enough you'll realise careers don't last, you can go chasing for the best career, land the best job, but things change, circumstances change.

    Figure out what makes you hate the job overall, not just the work per se. Are you able to do the accounting work, is it too hard or challenging for you, or is it purely motivation related? Is the environment in your current job not stimulating enough, i.e. would it make it better if you working around younger people or people who had more energy? Think about what you want out of it all, and what the job should give you? Good pay, good work life balance?

    • Sandman2019 on 22/11/2019 - 22:51

      Thanks really good advice

  • rgr on 11/11/2019 - 08:40
    +1

    hi OP,
    I was in your position when I was 25 (now closing in on 29). I worked in a rather well paying IT consulting gig at one of the big firms right out of uni at 21, then I ended up switching jobs and companies and realised I got mentally fatigued from working travelling to the CBD and working in an office all day, watching the clock until 5 so I could go home. Eventually I got myself fired by not showing up to my job and instead going on my holiday. Best decision I made was to take an entire year off and do nothing, read some books, travel and really think about what I wanted from life and deal with a breakup. The thing is, sometimes you need an extended period of nothing so your head is clear and you can re-arrange your thoughts without dealing with the everyday shit of work, deadlines and what other people are thinking of you/your performance/your demeanour etc.

    I ended up finding another job in the same area but came back recharged and with new eyes in 2016. Even though currently I don't work in the same field anymore, that one year off was crucial to my mental state because I had all these dark thoughts about suicide that I had to process. I now have an awesome job that has me using my skills on the job, pays me well and travel internationally and domestically for work.

    My advice to you is to take a sabbatical and do something extremely out of the ordinary like travel solo overseas. You'll meet different people, get some perspective, get a decent mental break and hopefully give yourself a new lease on wtf you want to do in life. Don't worry about the 1 year gap on your CV or whatever, as long as you're honest and can talk about how it benefitted you then employers are always ok about it, and in some cases envious and curious to learn more.

    • ar7ist on 11/11/2019 - 10:33

      I wish I was in a situation to be able to do this. I'm trying to save but then I'm also on Ozb 9-5 everyday and more.
      OP already living in home may be in a position where they can take some time off. But I'd say travelling is a good advice. Definitely gives you perspective.

      BTW OP, I had a friend in similar situation to yours. He realised at 30 that Accounting isn't for him. So he got himself an IT degree from a mid tier uni so it wasn't too expensive. I'm 27 now and he's 33. We both know each because we started off in the same grad program for technology. He believes he made a good decision because he transitioned from a solo desk role in accounting to a more team based role in technology. We started off with programming but even within IT he switched to an Analyst role because IT gives you that many options. It was an entry level role but that comes with a career switch.
      You have a few years of head-start to this friend of mine so I'd say its good that you realised it now.

      I actually met some from Tinder who I started mentoring :D So if needed, I'd be happy to meet you and maybe help layout a few options particularly within the IT industry.

      Good luck!

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:24

      Thanks, i'd like to do this but right now i have no savings at the moment. I guess i can save a fair bit in 6 months and go then but like you i've had suicidal thoughts in the past, like you i also had a break up i had to deal with which really destroyed me (giving the fact i was already hating life at my job) .
      I'm glad you found something you enjoy!

  • Hammo on 11/11/2019 - 10:31
    +1

    I'd invest some time in understanding your personality before I'd be too concerned about the job/career. Consider investing some time with a counsellor or a psychologist to establish some of your key character strengths on your journey to decision making.

    Your finance experience would be a fantastic skill for something like Project Management, BUT you'd have to have the sort of personality to enjoy it. If I could do my time over again, I'd do accountancy/finance, then move to audit, then project -> program -> portfolio management.

  • CBrads4 on 11/11/2019 - 10:36

    Similar situation, mate.

    I'm in a similar age range to you, finished my degree a short time ago and have been working using the degree for a little while. I originally intended to use my degree as a stepping stone to something else, but got dragged into a career instead.

    Somewhat a blessing in disguise. The career I wanted to chase after using the original degree as a "stepping stone" I have realised is not what I want to do at all anymore. I have found another passion that I want to follow and have been attracted to this passion for a fair while now.

    I've applied to go back to Uni and chase my real passion and am currently waiting to hear from admissions. Something that friends, family and people within the (new) industry have all told me is that it's never too late. People, at least in this field, often don't begin their careers until their early- to mid-thirties, so there is always time and always another option.

    Unfortunately I can't help you with how to find out what you want to do as I stumbled across mine organically, however I wish you all the best with searching. I'm sure you'll end up in the right place.

  • rave75 on 11/11/2019 - 10:46

    Same boat here and I am about to turn 30. If I can tell my 25yo me, I would say spend more time and think harder of area you'd like/enjoy more.

  • TSH on 11/11/2019 - 11:55
    +1

    Mate from where Im standing, you're at the start of your glorious life (not career). I'm 40 now, went to 10 different schools due to parents moving around a lot and then i got a mechanical engineering degree and went on to work roughly a new job every year until 2006.

    Quit work and did a drafting diploma at Tafe. Worked 3 years and then quit to do aircraft maintenance in 2010. The GFC had happened and the airline work was mostly moving offshore. Bummed around for a year and then went back to Tafe to do a diploma of civil engineering to add to my drafting. Then worked as a crane rigger for 3 years (I only stuck around because i had a home loan).
    Got laid off in downturn. Had a year and a half off and came back to do a little cable installation course and then went on to do a diploma in networking IT.

    I enjoy my job right now, as the old knees and elbows were starting to fail from rigging. I help people out with their IT problems and enjoy the "meeting people" aspect of it. My wife sent me to a shrink a few years back because she said I had a problem with hard work. Turns out that wasn't true. I hate working for people. Have a really bad problem with authority and have abused many a manager, cfo in my day. Got sick and tired of working under untalented twits. But anyways main issue was pride, having the last word and never having a filter.

    I have spent the last 40 years being a plastic bag in the wind. And I wouldn't tell my younger self sh!t right now. :) Most people spend too much time fussing about how they drive through life. Few look at the rut they're in and get excited about carving a path through that. At the end of it, you do you best.

    Picture being an accountant till 65 and then regretting it over a cup tea at the retirement village. At 25, you're at the starting block. My dads best mate was a drunk lout on his way to liver failure when in his late 40's, he sobered up got a degree and turned his life around. At 25, the world is your oyster.

  • innov on 11/11/2019 - 11:58
    +1

    Yes I did, initially worked for a big 4 bank after uni and absolutely hated it. I remember thinking to myself whilst working there "Is this what I really want to do for the rest of my life??"

    I quit my job, went travelling for a couple years which was liberating and gave me clarity with my mind. I end up working in supply chain side of the business for a global clothing company and I really enjoy it.

    My advice is that try and take a break after high school to find out what you're passionate about. I also think travelling has many benefits before you enter the workforce. You'll less likely feel burned out from your work career which I am now seeing with people around my age.

  • trapper on 11/11/2019 - 12:05

    You're only 25, make a plan and get out now. Easy.

  • trapper on 11/11/2019 - 12:06

    Although who the hell would become an accountant and expect to enjoy their job?? lol isn't it obvious this is going to be a lifetime of torture?

  • captaincabinets on 11/11/2019 - 12:15

    Hi mate. I was in a somewhat similar position to you 10 years ago. Studied management, started working in a business consultancy, both because I didn't know what else to do. Was great money after I moved interstate and back and got promoted, but I found the work mostly very dull e.g. creating long documents and forms for clients. I quit after 2 years of saving and travelled for 5 months in Australia and Europe.

    I had time to think and I decided to go back to uni and do a Masters to become a preschool teacher like my Mum. As a male early years teacher you are (almost always) very well treated and appreciated by others as it's a huge gender disparity. It's not a perfect job as the teaching administration cancels out some of the fun of the actual teaching. But overall I have an enjoyable job that society generally values me for.

    Overall, life's too short to be miserable in your job I think. At the least, find something you are okay with rather than actively hate.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:05

      great post thank you!

      • captaincabinets on 12/11/2019 - 09:25

        Thanks man, glad you read this far. I've just finished a great book "Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown". In the book he suggests trying to find something that you enjoy, are good at, and is of benefit to the world. It sounds like you're still working out what the first couple are. Maybe take some time to think deeply about the first two, ask friends and family what they think you're good at, and do some desktop research for careers that are needed in the future, and careers that you might find fun. Here's a dumb example of the latter. I've heard from friends that working in video games is actually pretty awful at times (e.g. 'crunch' time) but if you research enough, you may find commonalities across them.

        https://www.trade-schools.net/articles/fun-jobs-that-pay-wel…

  • trapper on 11/11/2019 - 12:55

    I've posted this before, but here it is again for you.

    Don't do any job that you don't enjoy just for the money. - Well maybe if it's a short term part of a long term goal, but other than that don't do it.

    Figure out all the things you enjoy doing.
    Find out what jobs involves doing those things.
    Find of which of those jobs pays the most.
    Do that job.
    Seriously if you have a passion for and enjoy your work you will naturally excel and end up in a much better position overall. If you take some boring higher paying role but grudgingly turn up it's going to be a lifetime of mediocre performance and pain.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:04

      You're right but doing that is harder than it seems
      firstly, i'm not sure what i like doing/or what i'm really good at .
      Secondly, what if i do something i like and it involves years of study? / another degree?

      • trapper on 12/11/2019 - 11:57

        Figuring out what you want to do is the first step, then make your plan how to get there.

        Things that require another degree or years more study may not be an option. Also you definitely don't want to be in the same place 4-5 years down the track not sure if your second degree is right either.

  • Duram on 11/11/2019 - 13:56

    There is no such thing as the 'right' career, anyone who tells ya that they like their job is a liar.

    • ozbjunkie on 12/11/2019 - 06:26

      With very, very few exceptions, I'd agree with you.

      "Love my job" - I think "yeah that horrible sinking feeling when you have to decide what to do with your time, who wants that, I'd much prefer being told where I'll be and what I'll be thinking about. Having to decide where to go and what to concentrate on has always been the more unpleasant part of life".

      I feel like the vast majority of people who love their job have simply had the imagination beaten out of them until they wouldn't know how to pursue an interest if they spontaneous developed one.

    • FallaM on 12/11/2019 - 11:39

      Disagree, there are people who like their jobs but that is very few- however, there are significantly more people who simply tolerate their job and understand it's to fund the things they actually enjoy.

  • hooyn on 11/11/2019 - 15:24

    you should start a podcast

  • Cave Fire on 11/11/2019 - 16:07

    Hmm I left my first "real" job with a large corporate to study science overseas at 25. So I can relate to the need for change. You can do short courses, post grad courses or even Tafe. Doesn't necessarily have to be another three year degree. You could also find something you are passionate about and use your accounting as a support. It also makes you stand out for management positions and later in your career.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:02

      thanks , i guess it's trying to find something i'm passionate about.
      I'm really not sure.

  • funnysht on 11/11/2019 - 16:39
    +1

    The grass is always greener on the other side. But remember there are paddocks with no grass at all and just a cow alone by themselves.

  • whirlpool_guy on 11/11/2019 - 17:02

    Hi OP,

    Step out of your comfort zone ASAP

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:01

      What should I do?

      • ar7ist on 12/11/2019 - 09:48

        Just do it!
        Nothing is impossible!
        Wubba Lubba Dub Dubbbb!

  • MITM on 11/11/2019 - 17:07
    +1

    This post has been the most depressing read. With some of the language you've used in your replies to others - I have to ask - RU OK ?
    You may not know it, but you may be suffering depression. Might be worth a visit to a GP for a referral for your 10 free chats with a good listener.

    Did you go into work today ? There are no comments so I presume so. And if you did, why ?

    Reading your comments, I'd say you never had your heart in the profession starting at Uni - so it's been longer than just your working life.
    Also, you say your parents pushed you in this direction, and sold it by instilling in you - "I'd be set for life" as you stated.
    Lots of parents do that - become a doctor, become a banker, get into IT, get into finance…..

    It seems to me you're suffering burnout. Now must be the busiest time of the year for your employer - when does it slow down so you can take a holiday on his dime ?

    How did you do at school ? Grades just OK or better than average ? Couldn't wait to leave ? Were you motivated at school or cruise thru ? Do you still have friends from school ? Did you go from school straight into Uni ? Did you get away and live life during your "between jobs" phase ?

    What are your current commitments that dictate you must go to work each day. Car payments ? You live at home still - do your parent/s rely on your board ? Have you thought of taking a year or two off travelling while you have nearly or no commitments to refresh and refocus, and enjoy the scenery and friendships on the way.
    If you think you're on the treadmill then get off while you can. So many people are committed with mortgages/kids/business they have to keep pedaling whether they like it or not - literally.

    Put a backpack on and Ozbargain your way around the world with the mantra - the less I spend each day, the more days I get to travel.
    Your parent/s may enjoy the break too knowing you'll return revitalised.

    Good luck.

    • Sandman2019 on 11/11/2019 - 19:01

      Thank you for asking. To be honest, i'm probably not OK. Not only have I had my struggles at work but it's been a tough year for me. My dog died. My gf left me and my best friend moved to queensland. I don't really remember the last time i laughed or really felt happy. I guess i feel kind of numb. Is this depression?

      Yes i don't know why i go to work. I just go because "its better than being at home".

      I'd love a holiday but unfortunately i don't have much in savings despite living at home.

      I did okay at school. My ATAR score was 86.I was motivated at school. I wanted to do well. Yes i still have a few friends i hang out with from high school. Yes i went straight to Uni. Uni were where my struggles began. I found it hard to make friends and became very lazy. Spent lots of time at home, hardly worked or did anything. Never really travelled or did anything.

      I live at home. Have no financial commitments. I drive an old bomb. I don't have much saved.

      Yea i wouldn't mind doing some travel but stupidly i hardly have any savings.

      • acersaurus on 11/11/2019 - 21:59

        A friend of mine went to Korea and taught English for a year. It paid ok, more than enough to survive and travel a bit. Maybe you could consider something like that.

        • DarthAntz on 12/11/2019 - 11:53

          An excellent answer to the way they feel. I did it and learned a lot about myself in the process. Plus you'll gain a lot of maturity working overseas in a foreign environment. I highly recommend it too.

      • captaincabinets on 12/11/2019 - 09:30

        Hi again. It sounds like your wellbeing isn't that great. I have a family history of depression and it has also affected me. If you go to your GP and book a double appointment you can ask for a mental health care plan, which will allow you 10 subsidised visits to a psych. I've done it several times and it's helping me.

        If you want a rough idea before you go ahead with it, this is the DASS test that the GP / nurse will give you.

        https://www.breakthrough.com/assessments/dass/new

  • knk on 11/11/2019 - 19:37

    @Sandman2019
    Same boat here, I'm 29. Degree in IT, worked for a few companies, now work for myself and make good money for what is a fairly low amount of effort frankly. Truth be told, I'm over it though. I had a wake up moment where a client really pissed me off and I just thought, why do I even do this anymore? I don't enjoy it, I don't want to go back into FT employment in IT and I really need a change.

    Long story short - I'll most likely be studying Osteopathy next year with a view to transfer into Physio if I get the appropriate grades. I don't have the background or grades / credentials to get straight into the course and I'm not willing to waste 3 years doing exercise science for a view of gaining admission to physiotherapy so this is a better back up plan.

    When I decided that I was going to just jump into a different career, it was a load off. Find something you actually think you'll enjoy and go for it….however

    My advice to you would be to look into other careers that you would enjoy, where your accounting background would possibly be advantageous. If this isn't possible, look into a different career entirely. If it involves further study I'd look into how you're going to live / work / pay bills while you're studying and ensure all aspects are viable. It's all well and good to say "do something you love", but it needs to be practical.

  • Munki on 11/11/2019 - 20:33
    +3

    One of the biggest mistakes I feel we as a society have inflicted on our students is the whole notion that they must pick something they should learn in tertiary education straight after high school. Most kids lack the maturity and foresight to even know what it is they would like to be doing in six months time - let alone setting in stone their future career.

    I'm thankful I deferred university until I was about 21 and did something I was actually passionate about. Thankfully I've managed to incorporate what I did at uni - despite not being formally trained at what I do now.

    • knk on 12/11/2019 - 08:37

      +1 if you don't go to uni you're trash. So go and get a useless degree

  • Winston100s on 11/11/2019 - 23:08
    -2

    mate, I'm 34 in 1 month and I chose the wrong life, stop complaining and move on.

    • ozbjunkie on 12/11/2019 - 06:44

      Move on meaning worry about something else instead of having an unfulfilling career or move on meaning get a new career?

      • Winston100s on 12/11/2019 - 14:59
        +1

        If it doesn't work for you, doesn't make you happy or fulfilled, don't waste time. Regardless, career, relationships etc.

        • ozbjunkie on 13/11/2019 - 08:37

          I'm liking your attitude.

  • Chiemo on 12/11/2019 - 03:07

    In a similar position to you op, did a business degree and worked as a grad in a 3PL company- writing reports/ inputting data into a spreadsheet. Switched companies but still repetitive and not being content i quit.

    At 27, Back to uni to do a computer science degree with 1 year taken off it. Hoping to become a developer building web apps would be more interesting and fulfilling.

  • Thebigshownath85 on 12/11/2019 - 08:10

    Hey buddy, hope you see this. Totally normal to feel this way (especially in accounting). Think about the skills you have and can apply to other roles (eg problem solving, analytical skills, communication/people skills etc are all core accounting skills), not so much an industry/job you're passionate about. It's unlikely you'll pick a winner on your first go, but stick at it and keep building skills and picking jobs based on skills you enjoy/have. Eventually you'll find something that fits you.

  • pacman99 on 12/11/2019 - 08:22

    You came to that realization pretty quickly! It's great you've realized so early that accounting isn't for you. My friend was working with one of the big international accounting firms and despite having good job security, just couldn't do it anymore. She went back to uni to do computer science and is loving it.

    Me, on the other hand, decided to stick it out with the job I hate with a passion (healthcare). As in, hate enough to take days off just because I can't force myself to go to work, even though I have plenty of bills to pay. The kicker is, I can't just "get away" from my job. When I go outside, I'm identified by my profession and am expected to drop everything to help people around me if they become unwell. This includes if I'm on vacation.

    Have been looking for a way out for 5 years now with no luck. Each year I wait, the harder it becomes to switch. Maybe next year will be the year but I'm not holding my breath.

    • knk on 12/11/2019 - 08:38

      What area of health care are you in?

  • Klogg86 on 12/11/2019 - 08:57
    +1

    I started in IT, now moving to funds management.

    My own story - feel free to skip:
    I found IT interesting for the first 4 years or so, after that just jumped from contract to contract and milked it for all it was worth. In my tenth year on ridiculous contractor rates with 1 month of no work… That has funded my own portfolio, and allowed me now to gather investor funds. The switch should be complete by mid next year

    My take:
    Try many things, as much as humanly possible, whilst keeping your current job. Sometimes the work is actually great, but the corporate environment makes it a drag. A few questions:
    - If you could find clients to break out on your own, would this make it more exciting?
    - Do you have any areas of work that interest you more?
    - Could you setup two weeks work experience or similar to test them?

    Basically run small trials on anything that seems appealing. It'll be unpaid, but it's a small price to pay for an answer.

  • ruddiger7 on 12/11/2019 - 09:18

    Of course, Im an analyst but I should have been a billionaire astronaut cowboy.

    • Cave Fire on 12/11/2019 - 10:57

      *trillionaire if you are talking about space mining…

    • Sandman2019 on 22/11/2019 - 22:53

      what do you actually do as an analyst?

  • FallaM on 12/11/2019 - 11:37

    This is why so many people choose the APS to work in, while it doesn't pay as well as some private organizations, if you're going to hate your job (which some people do regardless of what they work in) then you may as well do it with a good work/life balance, security and decent benefits. I'm someone who actually likes their job but I can completely understand not enjoying working.

    • Munki on 12/11/2019 - 11:45

      Public service 4 lyf!

  • DarthAntz on 12/11/2019 - 11:50

    I crashed out of education after 3 years, at the age of 24. I went to work in government which paid more, for a tonne less responsibility. I lasted 5 years in that and the lack of stimulation and being surrounded by lifers got me out. I ended back in education but my way and as far from the original experience, by teaching overseas.
    You've got skills and experience, find a better way to use it. As per other comments, its your environment. I've got 10 years on you and I've rediscovered the love for education, so stop saying that you don't want to go back to study. Find the perfect study that works for you, and don't stop studying. I can regret not studying more in my 20's, and considering the single degree enough, but it's a waste and I have the chance to study now and I do rather than regret.

    I'm still inspired by a comment I read on ozbargain a week or two ago about someone that was unemployed for a year and did a stack of free udemy courses, and that got them a well paying job.

    Never stop learning new things.

  • capua on 12/11/2019 - 12:18

    You start to like your job if,
    - You are good at it.
    - you have autonomy, the more the better
    - you like your direct superior you report to
    - Flexibility, perks, comfort, commute time etc.
    - $$$$CASH$$$$

    If you dont see any potential for growth you will dread it. On the other hand, no successful person actually whines, so do best with what you have at hand.

    Prepare for the job you want and then make the change. You are not late for anything, and try to figure out ways how being multi-discipline can potentially help you and count as a positive rather than wasted time.

    • Sandman2019 on 13/11/2019 - 21:09

      i guess that;s why i' sturggling

      • i'n not that good at it
      • i have no friends there
      • 1 hour commute and shitty office
      • 45k a year
  • kaleidoscope on 12/11/2019 - 12:41
    -2

    Yes.

    Its not wrong per se, while I’m good at what I do for a living its not my true passion and where I’m most skilled at. Where I was born and raised / studied there isn’t much choice anyway. Now I’m doing what I can to save bit extra to follow that passion on the side.

    You’re still 25. Give it more time 🥳

  • aspirepranesh on 12/11/2019 - 14:29

    Been there. Done some of that.

    • Graduated High school in 2003 and got into a Bachelors in IT back home in India, because every other MOFO needs to work in IT according to any Indian parent :)

    • Got into a standard 9-7 IT Job and hated it and quit after 7 months.

    • Moved to Melbourne at 22 to pursue a business degree against my families wishes. Masters in HR.

    • Ended up working in Sales/Account Management roles for 9 years. Got burnt out every single time. Told myself I would never take up an other Sales job. Ended up having 3 different sales/account management roles from the age of 22 to 31

    • Finally got a change of pace when I was got the break in an IT company, but in a Consulting role helping businesses with their Customer retention. Been with them for 3+ years and I am 34 now. Totally love what I am doing, even though it took a while to get here.

    One thing I learnt during the last 13+ years in this country, always expand your interests and learn something new even if it is on the side. You never know what the future holds and how all of your past experience ties up. See it as a challenge you would like to tackle and find things you like in life as you go and trust me, they do vary. I liked the idea of making money when I was in sales, but it was a drag after a while.

  • IamPo on 12/11/2019 - 14:55
    +3

    Hey OP,

    I signed up to share my story and to let you know that you didn't choose the wrong career, but found a career you don't want to continue on with.

    When I was 25 I was working morning and graveyard shifts as a facility officer contractor with my Mechanical Engineering degree. It was good enough pay that I didn't need to look for a job but it had no progression and I wasn't passionate walking around backup generators at 3am. I decided to quit and force myself to for another job.

    I landed a project coordinator job at a small company which has low pay but now I have motivation to be a project manager. I learnt everything I could from P&L, resourcing, forecast to payroll and moved on after 1.5years to Big4 Accounting as an internal consultant.

    I started realising how big data analytics is and decided to change my career goal once again. After doing some research online, I was under the impression that I'll need to complete another uni course to learn coding. However after speaking with my coach, he recommended me to try an internal transfer to one of the analytics team which was exactly what I did. I started focusing on learning excel, vlookup/index.match and VBA, facilitated excel workshops and automated spreadsheets to prepare myself.

    I approached the Partner for analytics and got rejected - twice. I wasn't techy enough but I continued to learn SQL, Python Tableau in my own time through online courses and finally bugged him enough to let me join. There's been lots of burning midnight oil but I enjoy what I do and more importantly - huge learning opportunities.

    Back to your original post, your current role is only a stepping stone to what you do next. Be excited to suck all the learning you can related to what you want to do. You will never get to your next job with the current (fact), the only thing you can change is the mentality and excite yourself with what's to come.

    To think about this at 25 you're already ahead of people your age. What happens next is completely up to your determination and actions.

    Set yourself a goal a keep us posted.

    Po

    • Sandman2019 on 13/11/2019 - 21:14

      wow that's an incredible story
      thanks for the inspiration

  • timli on 12/11/2019 - 14:57

    Hi OP,

    Hope you find your new passion soon.

    I find myself in a similar situation; and I've had a friend who also went through the same.

    1) Me (Fail Story)
    I graduated with a B Acc/B Laws with the intention of heading into law.
    However, my part time job somehow landed me in a management position of that industry after successive promotions (Aged Care).
    I'm almost 30, and I've suddenly re-ignited my passion into my studies.
    Suffice to say, the royal commission doesn't help; as well as the fact that whilst I loved my job and everything it stood for, industry trends and realities don't really allow you to do exactly what you want. That being said, I was happy to know that I made that positive difference for my elderly residents every day.

    But, I guess I'm being rather selfish when now I want to refocus on my own career goals; I disagree with a lot of people; Whilst most people don't like their jobs, everyone is entitled to change.

    I'm focusing on my passion now, and due to personal circumstances not really job seeking yet. (Headed off to HK; IYKYK).

    2) My friend (Success Story)

    My friend graduated with a B Arts/B Comm, and headed into a top-tier accounting firm. I was really proud of her. She was good at what she did.
    But she hated it.
    She had a passion for the hospitality industry (Hotels).
    So she quit her job, joined a hotel first off in Food Services, then did some night work at the Star and now she's in a role where I think she's enjoying herself as a Training coordinator in Perth for Crown. Just the other day I saw posts of her awards night and she looked genuinely happy.

    I felt bad because when she did it initially, I had the same views as most: "WTF you have a steady job with career opportunities why are you wasting it".

    Looking back at it, I'm even more proud of her for having the courage to quit it all and follow her passions. Which is sort of what I'm trying to do now, only probably 5 years too late.

    It's never too late to change! Just find your passion!! :)

  • fickre on 12/11/2019 - 15:02

    Like a lot of people in here, I share similar thought. I'm 31 years old and I always thought what the (profanity) am I doing.

    Even worse when I compare myself with my peers.

  • Gowrie29 on 12/11/2019 - 16:25

    I don't hate my job. I just don't have enough time to do it properly which sucks.

  • fratzhaus on 12/11/2019 - 17:06

    yes

  • mutanti on 12/11/2019 - 19:15

    I Should have become a Jiggalow

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