How to Choose a Career for the Work, Not Just the People

Choosing a career can feel like trying to pick your favourite star in an endless sky—especially when every path looks interesting. Internships and work experience are brilliant for turning daydreams into reality, but there's a hidden trap: it's incredibly easy to confuse liking the people with liking the job. The secret to making a smart career choice is learning to separate the two on purpose, so you don't end up in the wrong role for all the right reasons.

Why Career Choices Feel Overwhelming for Neurodivergent Minds

Neurodivergent brains often think in broad, expansive ways—which means options multiply fast. One moment you're considering graphic design, the next you're fascinated by marine biology, and by teatime you've added three more possibilities to the list. This wide-angle thinking is a gift, but it can also turn career decisions into a never-ending maze.

That's why real-world tryouts—internships, taster days, shadowing—are pure gold. They ground your imagination in lived experience. But here's where things get tricky: during these experiences, your feelings can blur together. A great team, a fun office vibe, a kind mentor—suddenly the job seems perfect. But the question you need to ask yourself is this: do I actually enjoy the tasks, or am I just charmed by the people I met?

The Hidden Trap of Loving the Team More Than the Tasks

It's incredibly natural to feel drawn to a workplace where you clicked with everyone. Shared jokes, friendly faces, a welcoming atmosphere—these things matter. But they shouldn't be the main reason you commit to a career path. If the actual work—the day-to-day tasks, the challenges, the skills you'll build—doesn't light you up, the shine will fade once the novelty wears off.

Think of it this way: choosing a career because your best friend works there is like picking a restaurant because your neighbour waved at you from inside. It might seem appealing in the moment, but it doesn't mean you'll enjoy what's on the menu.

The Two-List Method for Smarter Career Tryouts

Here's a simple tool to cut through the confusion during your next work experience or internship. Create two separate lists:

• Tasks I Enjoyed: What did you actually do during the day? Which activities felt engaging, satisfying, or interesting? Be specific—'I loved organising the event schedule' is more useful than 'it was fun'.
• How the Team Felt: Who did you meet? What was the social atmosphere like? Did you feel comfortable and welcomed?

Now compare the two. If your 'tasks' list is thin or lukewarm, but your 'team' list is glowing, that's a red flag. It's a sign you're being swayed by the social scene rather than the substance of the work. And that's a recipe for regret down the line.

Why Following Friends Into Careers Rarely Works

It's tempting to follow a friend or sibling into an apprenticeship, degree, or career path—especially if they're raving about it. But their passion doesn't guarantee it'll be yours. The role needs to fit you, not just your social circle. Ask yourself: would I still want this job if I had to do it with complete strangers? If the answer is no, it's time to rethink.

Build a Career Path That Lasts Beyond the Honeymoon Phase

When you choose a job for the job itself, you're building a foundation that stays interesting long after the initial excitement fades. The right people make it better—absolutely—but the right work makes it last. Focus on roles where the daily tasks genuinely engage you, and the rest will follow naturally.

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