Job Requiring Minimal Prep But Offering Maximum Benefits?

Every once in a while I get a question that makes me scratch my head and worry about the future of the U.S. workforce. When looking for careers or jobs, probably the worst thing you can do is to make your sole focus how much money you’re going to make.

Don’t misunderstand me. Money is important. We put a lot of weight on our self-esteem and self-value based on our salary and income — and so does society. And, of course, we need an income to have all the basic necessities in life — as well as all the many other things we buy.

However, as the old adage goes, money does not buy happiness. There are many more important things in life and career than money. You need to find a job and career that matches your skills, competencies, and interests. There is no sense working in a job that makes a lot of money, but that you hate — even to the point of getting physically ill (as happened to one job-seeker I know).

Of course, there are some get-rich-quick schemes, some of which work, some of which are illegal. But these are not careers and these will not provide you with any kind of intrinsic satisfaction that we all need.

It’s a much better idea to determine the types of jobs and careers that are going to make you happy. Consider taking one of more assessments — or simply do a self-assessment — to help determine your strengths and interests. Talk to a career counselor at your high school or other adult whose opinions you value. Then you can research careers — and from that research determine the exact types and amount of education you’ll need to succeed.