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Education & Learnings

Best Professional Development Courses for Employees

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Title: Empowering Your Workforce: The Best Professional Development Courses for Employees

Introduction:

In today’s fast-paced and dynamic work environment, continuous learning and professional development have become essential for both individual career growth and organizational success. Investing in professional development courses for employees not only enhances their skills but also contributes to a more agile and innovative workforce. In this article, we will explore some unique and effective professional development courses that can significantly benefit your employees and elevate your company’s performance.

  1. Data Literacy and Analytics: In the era of big data, proficiency in data analysis is a valuable skill for employees across various sectors. Courses that focus on data literacy, visualization, and analytics empower employees to make informed decisions, identify trends, and contribute to data-driven strategies. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer a variety of courses in this domain, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.
  2. Emotional Intelligence Training: Emotional intelligence is a crucial aspect of effective leadership and collaboration. Courses that delve into emotional intelligence can enhance interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and empathy. This training helps employees build stronger relationships, navigate conflicts, and foster a positive work environment. Organizations like the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and the Emotional Intelligence Academy provide specialized courses in this area.
  3. Agile Project Management: With the growing emphasis on agility in project management, courses in Agile methodologies such as Scrum and Kanban are highly beneficial. These courses equip employees with the skills needed to manage projects efficiently, respond to changes quickly, and deliver high-quality results. Platforms like Scrum.org and the Project Management Institute (PMI) offer certification courses in Agile project management.
  4. Cybersecurity Awareness Training: As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, ensuring that employees are well-versed in cybersecurity best practices is essential. Courses covering cybersecurity awareness provide employees with the knowledge to recognize and mitigate potential threats, safeguarding both their personal information and company data. Organizations like SANS Institute and Cybrary offer comprehensive cybersecurity training programs.
  5. Inclusive Leadership Workshops: Fostering diversity and inclusion is crucial for building a thriving workplace. Inclusive leadership courses focus on developing leaders who can create inclusive cultures, embrace diversity, and promote equity within their teams. Institutes such as Catalyst and the Center for Creative Leadership offer programs that empower leaders to champion inclusivity.
  6. Creative Problem-Solving Skills: Courses on creative problem-solving enable employees to think outside the box, tackle challenges innovatively, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. Platforms like Udemy and Creativity at Work offer courses that cover techniques such as design thinking and brainstorming to enhance problem-solving skills.
  7. Effective Communication and Public Speaking: Strong communication skills are fundamental in the professional world. Courses in effective communication and public speaking can help employees articulate their ideas, present confidently, and collaborate more efficiently. Toastmasters International and Dale Carnegie Training are renowned for their courses in communication and public speaking.

Investing in the professional development of your employees is a strategic move that pays off in improved skills, increased job satisfaction, and enhanced organizational performance. By offering courses in data literacy, emotional intelligence, agile project management, cybersecurity awareness, inclusive leadership, creative problem-solving, and communication, you empower your workforce to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Stay ahead of the curve, and watch your employees grow into more capable, motivated, and adaptable professionals.

  1. Remote Work Productivity Courses: With the rise of remote work, providing courses that focus on productivity, time management, and effective collaboration in virtual environments is crucial. Platforms like Remote-how and LinkedIn Learning offer courses tailored to the unique challenges of remote work, helping employees stay connected, organized, and productive regardless of their physical location.
  2. Financial Literacy Training: Financial literacy is a valuable skill that can contribute to both personal and professional success. Courses in financial literacy cover topics such as budgeting, investing, and understanding financial statements. Organizations like the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) and the Financial Planning Association (FPA) offer courses to enhance employees’ financial knowledge.
  3. Adaptive Leadership Programs: In a rapidly changing business landscape, adaptive leadership is essential. Courses focusing on adaptive leadership equip employees with the skills to navigate uncertainty, lead through change, and foster innovation within their teams. Harvard Business School and the Center for Creative Leadership provide courses on adaptive leadership strategies.
  4. Cross-Cultural Communication Courses: As workplaces become more diverse, cross-cultural communication skills are increasingly important. Courses in cross-cultural communication help employees understand and navigate cultural differences, fostering a more inclusive and collaborative work environment. The CultureWizard and Global Integration offer programs in this area.
  5. Personal Branding Workshops: Developing a strong personal brand can significantly impact an employee’s career trajectory. Courses in personal branding teach individuals how to showcase their strengths, build an online presence, and effectively communicate their value. LinkedIn Learning and Skillshare offer courses on personal branding tailored for professionals in various fields.
  6. Mindfulness and Well-being Programs: Prioritizing employee well-being is essential for maintaining a healthy and engaged workforce. Courses in mindfulness, stress management, and overall well-being help employees cope with workplace stressors and improve their mental resilience. Organizations like Headspace and Mindful offer programs that promote mindfulness and well-being.
  7. Green and Sustainable Business Practices: Sustainability is becoming a key focus for businesses worldwide. Courses in green and sustainable business practices educate employees on environmentally friendly strategies, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable development. The Sustainability Institute and the Green Business Bureau provide courses in sustainable business practices.
  8. Augmented and Virtual Reality Training: With advancements in technology, augmented and virtual reality are transforming various industries. Courses in AR and VR training equip employees with the skills to leverage these technologies for training, collaboration, and customer engagement. Platforms like Udacity and Unity Learn offer courses in augmented and virtual reality development.

Conclusion:

Continued investment in professional development is an ongoing commitment to the growth and success of your employees and organization. By diversifying your approach and incorporating courses in remote work productivity, financial literacy, adaptive leadership, cross-cultural communication, personal branding, mindfulness, sustainable business practices, and emerging technologies, you create a well-rounded and resilient workforce. Empower your employees with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving professional landscape.

Education & Learnings

Acquiring Skills and Advancing in Professional Development

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Acquiring skills and advancing in professional development is a crucial aspect of building a successful and fulfilling career. It involves a continuous process of learning, adapting, and improving oneself to stay relevant in a rapidly changing professional landscape. Here’s a detailed guide on how to acquire skills and advance in professional development:

  1. Self-Assessment:
    • Identify your strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
    • Determine your short-term and long-term career goals.
    • Assess the skills required to achieve these goals.
  2. Set Clear Objectives:
    • Define specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) objectives for your professional development.
    • Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.
  3. Research Industry Trends:
    • Stay informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and changes in your field.
    • Identify the skills that are in demand and likely to be valuable in the future.
  4. Networking:
    • Build a professional network both online and offline.
    • Attend industry events, seminars, workshops, and conferences to connect with professionals in your field.
    • Seek mentorship from experienced individuals.
  5. Continuous Learning:
    • Pursue formal education, certifications, and training programs relevant to your field.
    • Explore online courses, workshops, and webinars to stay updated on industry best practices.
    • Join professional associations and take advantage of their resources.
  6. Skill Development:
    • Identify specific skills that align with your career goals.
    • Develop technical skills, soft skills (communication, leadership, teamwork), and industry-specific skills.
    • Utilize online platforms, such as LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or Udemy, to access a wide range of courses.
  7. On-the-Job Learning:
    • Actively seek opportunities for on-the-job learning.
    • Volunteer for projects that expose you to new challenges and require the development of new skills.
    • Learn from colleagues and seek feedback to improve your performance.
  8. Feedback and Reflection:
    • Regularly seek feedback from peers, supervisors, and mentors.
    • Reflect on your achievements and areas for improvement.
    • Adjust your professional development plan based on feedback and self-reflection.
  9. Time Management:
    • Prioritize your professional development activities.
    • Allocate dedicated time for learning and skill enhancement.
    • Balance short-term tasks with long-term development goals.
  10. Career Advancement Strategies:
    • Set yourself apart by showcasing your newly acquired skills and achievements.
    • Seek promotions, additional responsibilities, or lateral moves to broaden your experience.
    • Consider pursuing advanced degrees or professional certifications to enhance your credentials.
  11. Adaptability and Resilience:
    • Embrace change and be adaptable to new technologies and methodologies.
    • Learn from failures and setbacks, using them as opportunities for growth.
    • Stay resilient in the face of challenges, and continuously refine your skills.
  12. Personal Branding:
    • Build a strong online presence through platforms like LinkedIn.
    • Showcase your skills, achievements, and contributions to your network.
    • Create a compelling resume and update it regularly.
  13. Mentorship and Coaching:
    • Seek mentorship from experienced professionals in your industry.
    • Consider hiring a coach to provide personalized guidance.
    • Actively participate in mentorship programs within your organization or industry.
  14. Stay Inquisitive:
    • Cultivate a curious mindset and a willingness to learn.
    • Stay informed about emerging trends and technologies in your field.
    • Engage in discussions, forums, and communities to broaden your knowledge.
  15. Evaluate and Adjust:
    • Periodically assess your progress against your objectives.
    • Be willing to adjust your professional development plan based on changing circumstances.
    • Stay proactive in seeking new opportunities for growth.

Remember that professional development is a lifelong journey, and success often comes from a combination of hard work, continuous learning, and adaptability. Regularly revisit and update your professional development plan to ensure it aligns with your evolving career aspirations and the dynamic demands of your industry.

Professional Courses as Catalysts for Growth:

Professional courses can serve as catalysts for personal and career growth, providing individuals with the knowledge, skills, and credentials necessary to excel in their chosen fields. Here’s a closer look at how professional courses can act as catalysts for growth:

  1. Skill Enhancement:
    • Professional courses offer focused training in specific skills, helping individuals acquire the expertise needed for their roles.
    • They provide hands-on experience and practical knowledge, making it easier to apply what is learned in real-world scenarios.
  2. Specialization:
    • Many industries value specialists with in-depth knowledge in specific areas. Professional courses allow individuals to specialize in a particular domain, making them more valuable to employers.
    • Specialization often opens up new career opportunities and can lead to increased responsibilities and higher pay.
  3. Stay Current in Evolving Industries:
    • Industries are constantly evolving, and staying updated on the latest trends and technologies is crucial. Professional courses offer a structured way to acquire new knowledge and stay current in rapidly changing fields.
    • They enable professionals to adapt to industry advancements and remain competitive.
  4. Career Advancement:
    • Completing relevant professional courses can enhance your resume and make you stand out in a competitive job market.
    • Many employers value employees who proactively invest in their professional development, and such courses can contribute to promotions and career advancements.
  5. Networking Opportunities:
    • Enrolling in professional courses provides opportunities to network with instructors, fellow students, and industry professionals.
    • Networking can lead to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to job openings.
  6. Global Recognition and Certification:
    • Some professional courses offer globally recognized certifications, demonstrating a standardized level of competence.
    • Certifications can increase credibility and marketability, both nationally and internationally.
  7. Entrepreneurial Skills:
    • For those interested in entrepreneurship, professional courses can provide essential business skills, such as marketing, finance, and management.
    • Entrepreneurial courses may also cover topics like business planning, market analysis, and strategy development.
  8. Adaptability and Flexibility:
    • Professional courses often offer flexible schedules, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace while balancing work and personal commitments.
    • Online courses make education accessible from anywhere, promoting lifelong learning and adaptability.
  9. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
    • Many professional courses emphasize problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
    • These skills are transferable across various roles and are highly valued in professional environments.
  10. Industry Recognition and Partnerships:
    • Courses developed in collaboration with industry experts or endorsed by professional organizations carry significant weight.
    • Industry-recognized courses often align closely with actual industry needs and standards.
  11. Soft Skills Development:
    • In addition to technical skills, many professional courses incorporate soft skills development, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership.
    • Well-rounded professionals with a combination of technical and soft skills are often more successful in their careers.
  12. Career Change Opportunities:
    • For individuals looking to switch careers, professional courses can provide the necessary foundation and credibility in the new field.
    • They offer a structured learning path to acquire the skills demanded in a different industry.
  13. Continuous Improvement:
    • Professional courses encourage a mindset of continuous improvement and lifelong learning.
    • They support individuals in embracing change, adapting to new technologies, and seeking opportunities for growth throughout their careers.
  14. Personal Satisfaction and Confidence:
    • Successfully completing professional courses can boost personal satisfaction and confidence.
    • The sense of achievement gained from mastering new skills or earning certifications can positively impact both personal and professional life.
  15. Employer Support and Recognition:
    • Some employers actively support and encourage employees to pursue professional courses.
    • Employers may recognize and reward employees who invest in their professional development, leading to a more supportive and growth-oriented work environment.

In conclusion, professional courses play a crucial role in catalyzing personal and career growth by providing individuals with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in their professional lives. Whether it’s acquiring new technical skills, staying current in rapidly evolving industries, or positioning oneself for career advancement, professional courses offer a structured and effective pathway to success.

Navigating Career Transitions:

Navigating career transitions can be both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re looking to switch industries, change roles, or pursue a new career path, thoughtful planning and strategic actions are essential. Here’s a guide on how to successfully navigate career transitions:

Self-Assessment and Exploration:

  1. Identify Motivations:
    • Reflect on why you want to make a career change. Identify your motivations, such as passion, skill utilization, or personal growth.
  2. Assess Skills and Interests:
    • Conduct a thorough inventory of your skills, strengths, and interests. Consider both technical and soft skills.
  3. Research Industries and Roles:
    • Explore industries and roles that align with your skills and interests. Use online resources, networking, and informational interviews to gather information.
  4. Evaluate Values:
    • Consider your core values and how they align with potential careers. A career that aligns with your values is more likely to bring satisfaction and fulfillment.

Goal Setting and Planning:

  1. Set Clear Objectives:
    • Define specific and realistic short-term and long-term career goals. Break down larger goals into actionable steps.
  2. Research Requirements:
    • Understand the qualifications and requirements for the new role or industry. Identify any gaps in your current skill set.
  3. Skill Development Plan:
    • Develop a plan to acquire the necessary skills. Consider taking courses, obtaining certifications, or gaining hands-on experience through volunteering or side projects.

Networking and Research:

  1. Network with Professionals:
    • Attend industry events, conferences, and meetups to connect with professionals in the new field. Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn for networking.
  2. Informational Interviews:
    • Conduct informational interviews with professionals who have successfully transitioned into the field you’re interested in. Gain insights and advice from their experiences.
  3. Company Research:
    • Research companies within the target industry. Understand their culture, values, and the skills they prioritize in candidates.

Resume and Branding:

  1. Update Your Resume:
    • Tailor your resume to highlight transferable skills and relevant experiences. Showcase accomplishments that demonstrate your ability to excel in the new role.
  2. Online Presence:
    • Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career goals. Engage in online conversations related to your target industry to establish credibility.

Job Search and Applications:

  1. Apply Strategically:
    • Apply for roles strategically, focusing on positions that align with your skills and offer growth potential. Customize your applications for each opportunity.
  2. Utilize Job Boards:
    • Explore job boards, company websites, and industry-specific platforms for job opportunities. Set up job alerts to stay informed about new openings.

Adaptability and Resilience:

  1. Embrace Learning:
    • Be open to continuous learning. Embrace the challenges that come with acquiring new skills and knowledge.
  2. Stay Resilient:
    • Understand that a career transition may come with setbacks. Stay resilient, learn from failures, and use them as opportunities for growth.

Transitioning in the Workplace:

  1. Communicate with Current Employer:
    • If transitioning within the same company, communicate your career goals with your current employer. Seek opportunities for internal mobility.
  2. Professional Development:
    • Take advantage of any professional development programs offered by your current employer. This may include training, mentorship, or tuition assistance.

Seek Support and Guidance:

  1. Mentorship:
    • Seek mentorship from individuals who have successfully navigated similar career transitions. Their guidance can be invaluable.
  2. Career Coaching:
    • Consider working with a career coach to receive personalized guidance and support throughout the transition process.

Evaluate and Adjust:

  1. Reflect Regularly:
    • Regularly reflect on your progress. Assess whether the transition is aligning with your expectations and make adjustments as needed.
  2. Iterative Process:
    • Understand that career transitions are often iterative. It may take time to fine-tune your path and find the perfect fit.

Remember that a successful career transition requires a combination of self-awareness, strategic planning, continuous learning, and resilience. Be proactive in seeking opportunities, stay adaptable to change, and leverage your network for support and guidance along the way.

Articles

How to Change Careers even when you are Super Afraid

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Making a career change can be a daunting and scary experience, but it can also be an exciting opportunity for growth and personal fulfillment. Here are some steps you can take to help you make a successful transition, even when you are feeling afraid:

  1. Assess your skills and interests: Take some time to reflect on your skills, interests, and values. Consider what you enjoy about your current job and what you would like to change. This will help you identify the types of careers that would be a good fit for you.
  2. Research different career options: Once you have a better understanding of what you’re looking for, start researching different career options that align with your skills and interests. Read about the day-to-day tasks, the required skills, and the job outlook for each career.
  3. Network and make connections: Networking is a key part of any career transition. Attend events and connect with people in the industries or careers you are interested in. You can also reach out to alumni from your school or LinkedIn connections who are working in the field you want to pursue.
  4. Gather information and resources: Read books, take online courses, or attend workshops to learn more about the new career you’re considering. This will give you a better understanding of what you’re getting into and help you build the skills you need for your new career.
  5. Create a plan: Make a plan for your career transition. Consider what steps you need to take, such as getting additional education or certification, or building a portfolio. Set realistic goals and deadlines for each step, and hold yourself accountable.
  6. Take small steps: Making a big change can be overwhelming, so start with small steps. For example, if you’re considering a new career, you could start by volunteering or freelancing in that field to gain experience.
  7. Seek support: Finally, seek support from family, friends, and colleagues. Talk to people who have made successful career transitions and get their advice. Consider hiring a career coach or therapist to help you navigate the process.

Conclusion:

Remember that making a career change can be a process and it may take time to get where you want to be. Be patient, stay focused, and believe in yourself. By following these steps, you can make a successful transition into a new and fulfilling career.

Articles

Is Blogging a Good Career in the Future?

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The following is an article on Do the careers in blogging have a future A blog is a conversation or informational website that is published on the Internet and consists of discrete, typically informal diary-style text posts.

Is Blogging a Good Career in the Future?

A blog is a conversation or informational website that is published on the Internet and consists of discrete, typically informal diary-style text posts. Writing, photography, and other forms of media that are self-published online are referred to as blogging. Blogging began as a way for individuals to post diary-style entries, but it has subsequently been incorporated into many businesses’ websites. The sort of value your blog provides depends on how you intend to monetize it. Ads, affiliate marketing, sponsored articles, goods, and services are the primary ways bloggers generate money.

Although there is now less awareness of blogging as a job choice, it will undoubtedly be recognized as a lucrative career option in the future. Yes, you can make a living as a blogger. I recommend that you do not leap in full-time; instead, study and spend part-time making it professional, then select your passion, topic, and specialty, and then gradually progress. I’ve seen many novices leap into blogging and do well a few days or months later. If you think you’ll make a lot of money in one day, get a large number of visitors in one day, and become a successful blogger overnight, think again. If you look at all successful bloggers, you’ll notice that they put in a lot of time, treat their blogs like businesses, and gradually work their way up to the point where they’re working full-time and living the laptop lifestyle. Blogging is not for the faint of heart. If you want to be successful, you must work hard, be patient, and be truthful. Some think blogging will make you successful, while others say it is a waste of time. But the fact is that if you want to be a great blogger, you must work wisely, tactically, and patiently. If you can’t accomplish that, you’re destined to fail at blogging.

Blogging is similar to any other career in that if you are enthusiastic and diligent about it, you may be successful and make a lot of money, just like many YouTubers and other content writers. One must be totally dedicated to it else he will fail, but there is a bright future in blogging as the usage of social media and the internet has soared in today’s society, making it much simpler in the future.

General

Sample Circular on How to Choose Befitting Career 

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Sample circular on how to choose befitting career for oneself. The most guided direction is the best one as no ambiguity remains about the ‘direction.’ This direction is directly linked with selecting a career for oneself in the life ahead and it should be decided with much care and consideration. This format can serve as a help for choosing best career for the new thinkers.

Sample Circular on How to Choose Befitting Career

To,
The Chairman,
Lucas Steel Mills Corporation limited,
Texas, United States of America.

Subject: Circular on how to choose befitting career for oneself

Respected Signor,

Greetings! How are you? I hope you will be sailing in the titanic of wealth and health and I pray to Providence to give you the same in the future. I am Jonathon Wiz, the counselor of this prestigious company. I am linked with Human Resource Department, the Main-Craft Section and the Managing department. As it is clear to you on how I can think and relate the things and it would be different from others, for sure.
The main purpose behind this long prelude is, the right person on wrong job! The problems that I had received, mainly comprises of low sales, difficulty in understanding the new soft wares/work. This is something alarming!
I suggest you to develop a cell of experts where they should formulate an NTS type testing scheme just to judge the mindset of the employees. After careful scrutiny, the applicants must be guided to their career or the department of work where they can fit in on the best possible conditions. This evaluation will be beneficial for the employer and the employees both.

Yours Faithfully,

Mr. Jonathon wiz,
20 th June, 2018.

General

How to Choose a Good Career

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Career is a basic key for success in life . Its very difficult to decide what is better for future life according to your studies and knowledge. How we can utilize our self for better career. What is the important of the right choice.

How to Choose a Career Path

 

Important Points:

1-     Why to choose a career?
2 –    What is the important of the right choice
3 –    How to choose a career?
4-     Modern age and selection of a profession
5-     Ambition and profession selection.
6 –    Vast range of professions
7-     Select wisely and carefully
8-     Conclusion

 
Choice of a profession and career is of great important. On the right and timely choice of a career depends much success in life. It decides the future success or failure. The fruits of indecision are bitter. Similarly, one should try to choose one’s career as early as possible. It should be determined by the time one takes one’s first board examination
.
This is the age of much competition life is now really complex. Things are moving fast. There are a great variety of careers and professions. T makes the matters worse. One feels confused and bewildered in choosing a right career. The lack of proper counseling and guidance worsens the situation. The young students find themselves groping in the dark. As a result of all these, there is much unemployment and frustration. It also means lot of waste of money, time and energy. The students should take the help of elders, teachers and professionals in deciding their careers. They should choose their careers according to their aptitude and resources.
 
Young people are ambitions impatient and eager to achieve good positions. They want to become high official, executives and have top positions without considering their qualification, skills etc. this is a wrong attitude. One should be realistic; making castles in the air is of no help. One may dream of becoming a super film star and end up as a more casual artist or a help boy. Such over-ambitions lead to disillusionment and unhappiness.

It is better to choose a career at the high school level than go for higher studies aimlessly. One should go for a vocational course at this stage. It will one to stand on one’s feet in 23 years of time. There are many training institutions, polytechnics and professionals colleges. There are many career, professions and vocations to choose from. There are teaching, engineering, medical, law, technical, business, trade, computer applications careers, government employment, positions in police and army etc. one can start one’s own shop, factory, workshop or small scale industry.
Then one can choose acting commercial arts, fashion designing, advertisement etc. but each of these require special aptitude, training and resources. One may have proper qualifications and aptitude for a career of a doctor or engineer. But if there are no financial resources, one cannot choose it as his career.
 
Choice of a career is not simply a matter of likes and dislikes. Financial resources play a very important role in deciding to choose a profession. For lack of funds one will have to choose a far humbles career. Change of career amid st the stream may prove risky. It is not wise to change careers now and then. Therefore, select your career carefully and wisely, once decided, stick to your decision. Use all your energy and resources to obtain your aim.

One can take to politics if one has aptitude for public life. Politics is not always dirty. It is a profession of hard labor and perseverance. There are many ups and downs. You should be well prepared for all that. If you have strong optimism, ambition for fame and prepare to face the worst, you are best suited for politics. If you have aptitude for books, reading, quite life and studies, you should choose teaching. It is a noble profession. You can then become a teacher, lecturer of a professor. If you have enough money and resources and want to grow rich, you can choose business as your career.
 
Once you have chosen your career, it is not possible to retrace your steps. If you do, you are a great looser. While choosing a profession, you stand at a cross road. Once a choice is made, three is no escape. Therefore, be practical, logical and responsible in choosing your profession. This is a crucial choice. Take into consideration your liking, resources, qualifications etc. before deciding the course of your future life.