Anywhere you look, it is apparent there is a wide and deep selection of choices of a career. Whether it's a hands on position in construction or sitting behind the desk working on a computer, everyone has some idea of what is an attractive career. However, while making a career choice is simply a matter of following a dream for some, for others it means a lot of research and soul searching. It even requires working in some jobs where you find it isn’t for you. This can only help you focus on the right career.

More than just a matter of matching skills and desire and interests, it also becomes a matter of educational requirements, money and above all taking action. Without even trying, choosing and growing into the right career manages to become one of the most important decisions of an individual's life.

It used to be that one followed in the footsteps of their father or grandfather or took on the family business when it came to making a career choice. These days, the shifting job market means career choices can wax and wane. A career path can start anywhere and with a few years veer off into something totally different.

Many times, an individual will start out in one occupation in an industry and either change, work their way up or step down into a more fitting occupation somewhere else in the industry. The trickiest career choices are those that change industries altogether. Many HR managers and recruiters are reluctant to recommend hiring a candidate from another industry, although this attitude seems to be changing.

However, having a career that fits your interests and personality has been found to be important to an individual's well being. Not only does a career choice put a person's strongest skills and interests to use, it is also something that they will be doing on a consistent basis to bring in income. A person's career is something they will closely identify with, maybe even forming somewhat of an attachment.

This is why a career choice can be such a personal decision. At the same time, career choices must be realistic and well thought out. It is not uncommon for individuals to start down a career path and realize they have made a terrible mistake. Feeling as if it may be too late to turn around, many try to make the best of their decision but never fully enjoy their career and job. It’s been said love what you’re doing and it really isn’t a “job”.

Formerly it used to be unusual for someone to change occupations or careers more than once or twice in a lifetime, it is now even more unusual to keep the same career during someone’s working life. There are a great many resources for helping individuals with choosing the right profession. A number of websites offering tools such as career tests and information, educational resources and resume services can be found throughout the web. While it is important to research one vocation and career, in this dynamic and changing economy and market place, keeping options open for several related career choices, or even self-employment, is more than intelligent.

John Groth is a former HR executive and career coach and has helped dozens of individuals research and find the right career choice and prosper in that career. For the latest in career selection, design and development visit http://careernetworkplus.com

You will also find interesting career tips and ideas on career selection and development at his blog http://careernetworkplus.com/blog