Instead of expecting to have everything figured out right away, it can be more helpful to focus on exploration and orientation. The following five approaches offer a practical framework to navigate this transitional phase with confidence and curiosity. They don’t require having a detailed plan – just a willingness to take small steps, reflect on what works, and adjust along the way.
- Taking a break – and why that can be valuable
- Exploring interests beyond your degree
- Talking to people – gaining perspective through conversations
- Letting go of the idea of a “perfect plan”
- Starting somewhere – gaining clarity through action
- Conclusion
Taking a break – and why that can be valuable
After years of academic pressure, deadlines, and performance expectations, it’s completely natural to feel the need for a pause. Yet many graduates hesitate to take a break – often due to societal pressure or the fear of falling behind. The reality, however, is that a well-used break can be a powerful and productive tool for orientation.
This doesn’t mean doing nothing. A break can involve traveling, learning new skills, reading, volunteering, working part-time, or simply taking time to rest and reflect. The key is to give yourself permission to step out of the fast lane temporarily, in order to recharge and gain clarity.
During this period, many people discover what truly motivates them, what kind of environment they thrive in, and which values matter most in a future job. It also provides mental distance from the “default paths” often suggested during university – such as specific corporate careers or academic follow-ups – and creates space for independent decision-making.
It’s important to note that this break doesn’t have to be long. Even a few weeks or a couple of months can be enough to reset and refocus. When used intentionally, this time can increase self-awareness, boost confidence, and ultimately lead to more conscious and satisfying career decisions.
Exploring interests beyond your degree
A university degree is an important foundation. It provides knowledge, analytical skills, and a way of thinking that’s valuable in many professional settings. However, it’s not uncommon to realize after graduation that the subjects you studied don’t fully align with what energizes or excites you on a day-to-day basis.
This is why the post-graduation phase is an ideal time to explore. Instead of focusing solely on jobs that match your degree title, it can be helpful to ask yourself: What kinds of tasks do I enjoy? What topics make me curious? What do I lose track of time doing? These questions can uncover interests and strengths that didn’t come through during formal education.
For some, it might be organizing events, writing, coding, working with people, or visual design. Others might enjoy solving problems, analyzing systems, or helping others grow.
These activities can point toward different industries or roles you hadn’t previously considered. The key is to experiment: take a short online course, volunteer for a local organization, start a blog or podcast, or help a friend with a project. You don’t need to commit long term – the goal is to observe what feels engaging and fulfilling.
By focusing on energy and motivation, rather than only qualifications, you build a clearer picture of what kind of work might be a good fit – and start creating a more personal, interest-driven career path.
Talking to people – gaining perspective through conversations
One of the most effective and underrated ways to learn about different career paths is through real conversations with people who are already in the field. These informal chats – often called “informational interviews” – offer insights that you simply won’t find on company websites or job descriptions.
If there’s an industry, company, or role you’re curious about, try reaching out to someone with experience in that area. This could be a former classmate, a friend of a friend, a professional you admire on LinkedIn, or an alumni contact from your university. Most people are happy to share their story if approached politely and with genuine interest.
Good questions to ask include:
- How did you get started in your role?
- What do you enjoy most about your job?
- What challenges have you faced?
- What skills are most valuable in your day-to-day work?
- What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
These conversations help you develop a realistic picture of different career paths and often highlight that most people didn’t have a perfectly planned journey either. Career paths are often shaped by experimentation, unexpected opportunities, and personal growth over time.
As a bonus, these conversations also help you build your professional network. You’re not asking for a job – you’re asking for insight. And by showing curiosity and initiative, you’ll leave a positive impression, which can open doors in the future.
Letting go of the idea of a “perfect plan”
Many graduates feel pressured to have a five-year plan or find their “dream job” right away. But this pressure can be counterproductive – it creates unrealistic expectations and can block you from taking practical steps forward.
Career paths are rarely linear. Detours, changes of direction, and unexpected opportunities are part of the process. Instead of waiting for a perfect plan, it’s more helpful to take small, manageable steps in a direction that seems interesting.
This mindset shift reduces the fear of making the “wrong” choice. Every experience – even those that don’t turn out as expected – contributes to learning, growth, and clarity.
Starting Somewhere – Gaining Clarity Through Action
Often, the best way to find out what works for you is by simply trying things out. That might mean applying for an internship, a part-time job, a traineeship, or a freelance gig – even if it’s not your “forever job.”
Taking action helps break the cycle of indecision. It gives you insight into your strengths, preferences, and working style. You’ll also start building valuable skills, expanding your network, and gaining confidence.
Remember: your first job doesn’t define your entire career. It’s a starting point – and from there, you can adjust, redirect, and grow.
Conclusion: Progress Comes from Exploration
The period after graduation doesn’t need to be perfectly planned. In fact, it’s a great opportunity to explore, reflect, and gradually move toward what feels right.
By allowing yourself time, staying open to new experiences, and being willing to learn from every step, you build the foundation for a fulfilling career – even if you don’t have all the answers yet. Clarity often comes from doing, not just thinking.
Trust the process. The path forward doesn’t have to be straight to be meaningful.
