"How do I move forward when I feel overwhelmed about career options?"

The world is changing quickly.

And if you're heading into the job market or trying to decide on a career path after high school, there's a LOT to think about.

When you're faced with uncertainty, remind yourself that it is temporary:

There IS a future; we WILL get through this; life, love and purpose has MORE meaning than ever before.

If you're a teenager or young adult, you might feel that making a decision about your career or study pathway is overwhelming you.

But that doesn't mean doing nothing is the only solution. It's OK to admit you are feeling uncertain; just don't spend too much valuable time looking back and using language like "I'm stuck..." and "I can't..."

Instead, focus on your future, even a mid-term future as to what things could look like for you at the end of this year. Ask yourself: "How do I want my life to look like in six months time?" and this can help you develop an action plan to get there. ACTION = PROGRESS

Keep taking actions that move you forward, even if it is slowly.

Control what YOU can control.

Here's some tips for coping, when you feel like "my world is in turmoil":

1. Avoid catastrophizing - this is negative thinking and encourages poor decision making.

2. Embrace uncertainty - we can't remove the uncertainty that this pandemic is creating, but we can accept that it exists and adapt. It doesn't define you, it's just something that we are all dealing with.

3. Avoid the all-or-nothing thinking - it's not all doom or all positive, it's a grey in-between thing right now, and we can deal with that.

4. Stick with the facts - find reputable sources of information to support your decision making, not just people's opinions. Knowledge is power and this allows you to make informed choices, based on that knowledge.

5. Take care of yourself - this goes without saying. Embrace good eating, exercise and sleeping habits. Keep connected with people who uplift you and inspire you.

6. Looks for ways to help - at home, at school, online or in your community. Small gestures can mean a lot, and make you feel good.

7. Watch your language - a few swear words are justified, but check the level of negativity in your language. Rather than saying, "I'm stuck on a career decision", try this approach: "I'm lucky to have options for my future" and "I get the chance to learn new things and try new things." When you change your thinking, you change your behaviours and your outlook.

8. Look for the positives - when there is uncertainty, there are also opportunities. What opportunities excite you? E.g. a part-time job, a side hustle, getting a mentor or taking on a personal challenge.

9. Keep learning - whatever happens, set yourself up to be better equipped and better resourced than you are now, so you can respond to the job market and find companies that need good people. Learning ALWAYS increases your value, and there are lots of avenues for learning. Think outside the box to find one that works for you.

10. Use me to help you move forward! My business started following the uncertainty and fear of the Christchurch earthquakes - I know the impact this event had on young adults and my tools and services have helped many people across New Zealand, since that time. I keep young adults focus on the positives, on the fabulous attributes they have to offer and how they can find opportunities that bring them joy and purpose.

I'm Tracey Beard, the CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) at Career Matters.

I am changing the way students, young adults and their parents explore career options.

I always love to chat about careers, personality and human behaviour.

You can find me at www.careermatters.co.nz and on Facebook @careermattersnz, phone me on 021-843537 and email tracey@careermatters.co.nz.