Tell me about your dream job

For most people, it will take years before they find their dream job. This means changing of jobs, as well as non-transferable skills. Many young professionals will think of security, but they will feel useless, underused, and misused after a few years. If you're one of them, then you wonder what you should do.

You want to take the plunge, but it's easier said than done. Your parents would be aghast, as you have less than $100 in your bank account. Let's look at other situations:

You're part of the family business, but you don't like what you do. Maybe you need to challenge yourself, as you reach a stage where you don't enjoy what you're doing. And your family will understand your predicament. (They're not forcing you.) Try to look at it from all angles. If you quit the business, then make sure you have enough funds to last for months. It might be a long, dry spell. (A backpacking adventure for a year or less will be another case, though.) If you're rather sensible, then do a research. There can be other skills, which can be related to your dream job. Do it more often, as this will come handy in due time.

You had an internship in another country, and you would want to stay there. But lack of funds forced you to go back to your country of origin. You might have to bite the bullet on this one. For one thing, the situation back then would be different from now. This will prompt you to wonder why it's always have to be the economy. The market can be saturated, so you need to learn a few more skills. If you're determined, then make sure you won't rely on luck alone. Some are lucky, being at the right place at the right time. But don't count on it.

You're fluent in several languages. This is an interesting case, but it will be a tough call. On one hand, this particular skill will give you an advantage in international work. On the other hand, this might not be transferable. It means more vital information on your resume. (It can be personal relationships, even mediation. Project fulfillment, not to forget dealing with change.) Don't be too sure about it unless you know the job description well enough.

You're not done yet. Assess your situation again (and again and so on). Are you being unrealistic about your career aspiration? How about your finances? Your network (of family, friends, and former colleagues) have something to say. And it can be valuable.