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Does My Profession Choose Me, or Do I Choose My Profession?
Many professionals reflect on whether they consciously choose their profession or if it chooses them. Some have a clear path early on, while others find themselves in unexpected careers. Is our professional journey shaped by choice, or by circumstance?
In my case, I often feel that my profession chose me. When I first explored healthcare, I knew little about Occupational Therapy (OT) and was influenced by my aunt to consider it. At the time, OT wasn’t a career I had planned, but as I learned about helping individuals regain independence and improve their quality of life, I realized it aligned with my values. Over time, this "influenced" discovery transformed into a fulfilling career that I now can’t imagine leaving.
This highlights how careers can evolve, often shaped by external influences like family expectations, mentors, or societal trends. Educational opportunities also open doors we didn’t anticipate. For me, discovering OT through my studies gave me a rewarding direction I hadn’t initially considered.
Choosing a career is often a balance between passion and practicality. Many start out for practical reasons—stability, financial security—but over time, that profession becomes a passion. While I didn’t actively choose OT in the beginning, today, I proudly choose it every day.
In a dynamic world, career shifts are common, with many professionals changing fields as their interests evolve. While our professions may initially choose us, we have the power to reshape our paths as we grow.
Ultimately, the question of "who chooses whom" is complex. Our careers are shaped by external influences, personal choices, and opportunities. My journey into OT is a clear example of this. I didn’t consciously choose OT at first, but as I learned more, it became clear that it was where I was meant to be.
What truly matters is not whether your profession chose you, or you chose it, but whether you find fulfilment and alignment in your work.
What about you?
Do you feel like your profession chose you, or did you consciously choose it? How has your journey shaped your perspective?
Following my previous post @Sifiso Shoko - a few more comments in response to your forum:
Via LinkedIn:
"So well said... and my thoughts exactly." - Shaloo Choudhary, OTR , CEAS
"You make such an inspiring point. Occupational Therapy certainly chose me and I have often said that I think of my profession as a calling. Such a blessing." - Rishma Dhalla
"It’s a fascinating thought, isn’t it? How sometimes, we look back and wonder if our paths were carved by our own hands or if they were silently etched by something beyond our control. You see, when I think about my journey as an occupational therapist, I can't help but sense that it was more than just a decision - it felt like a calling, one I didn't even know I had answered at the time." - Dorel B
"OT is my calling. No regrets. I love this Ikigai concept, it captures my OT soul perfectly." - Catharine Eckersley