Interests

Why is it important to find an occupation that involves your interests?

It's work. Who ever said work is suppose to be fun. This seems to be a common response by those who define work primary as a way to earn money. While income is the primary function of work, it is an objective that is quickly overshadowed by other needs, once a regular income is obtained.

It is not "Just a Job". It is an activity that will occupy most of your waking life. If your job tasks involve things you like to do, you will have a more powerful and long lasting motivation to go to work (intrinsic rather than extrinsic), you will feel good about your work and want to engage in it. Furthermore, you will probably be more successful because of the added motivation.

Interests are those things you like to do and are attracted to doing without anyone telling you. They are the things that hold your attention or arouse your curiosity. They can vary in intensity from mild to passionate.

Going for your interests also increases the likelihood that it is something you have the ability for. Very few people are attracted to doing things they can not do well. We are usually more interested in those things we have the ability to succeed at; particularly, as children.

Exploring Your Interest:

Other Interest Inventories:

Career Assessment Quiz (Princeton Review)
Learn more about your personal interest and style and identify potential careers.

CareerZone
You can explore occupations, use an assessment tool to link your interests to potential careers, view some of the 300 career videos available and register for a free career portfolio account.

The Career Key Choosing a Career -- Career Guidance
The Career Key is a free service to help you with career choices, career changes, and career planning, job search, and choosing a college major or training program.

Real Game Canada
This dynamic series offers progressive, adaptable, and interactive career exploration programs to today's youth and adults. All Real Game Series programs are available for you to try as online demonstrations.  Experience first-hand how The Real Game Programs use teaching strategies and interactive exercises to make career exploration relevant and fun. Come back often to see additional games and updated exercises.