Tiffany explains how 'You Can' during Careers Week.

Careers Week's message is a positive one - and Tiffany explains how we can make the most of it.

Careers Week: You Can.
 
Every March, National Careers Week is dedicated to careers education, inspiring young people to explore their future pathways. This year’s theme, "You Can," focuses on empowerment - encouraging young people to challenge themselves, aim high, and embrace new opportunities. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various ways you can embody this mindset and take charge of your career journey!

Believing in the words "You Can" isn't always easy. Life comes with challenges, and we all have our own strengths and areas for growth. It’s natural to focus on perceived weaknesses, but the key is not to let them hold you back. Often, what we see as weaknesses are simply differences - and in the right environment, those differences can become strengths.

Some industries and workplaces can feel unwelcoming, particularly if you come from a minority background or face socioeconomic barriers. Imposter syndrome - the feeling of being inadequate despite being fully capable - can make this even harder and is something that can affect anyone. Sometimes, these doubts come from within and require a mindset shift. Other times, external factors reinforce them.

That’s why it’s essential to build a strong support network - people who believe in you, lift you, up and remind you of your potential. Most importantly, you need to believe in yourself. Believing in yourself is often easier said than done!  It can take serious time, effort, and persistence. But with dedication and motivation, your confidence will grow. The key is to keep trying and continuously put yourself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable. Stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing new opportunities is what drives growth and keeps you moving forward.
This week is also a great reminder that careers come in all shapes and sizes - there’s no one-size-fits-all path. What works for one person might not work for you, and that’s okay. Success isn’t always a straight line.

In fact, the next generation of workers is expected to experience “squiggly careers” - where people move through multiple roles and industries, sometimes in completely different fields. Career paths are becoming more flexible, and there’s no single “right” way to achieve your goals.
Alternative routes, like apprenticeships, offer valuable hands-on experience and qualifications, proving that university isn’t the only path to success - or even a requirement for many careers. The key is to try things out! Whether in the arts, sciences, humanities or any other field. You can do it!
How do you figure out what career is right for you? By trying things out! That’s why work experience is so valuable - it gives you firsthand insight into different roles and industries. Not only can it help you discover what you enjoy, but it can also highlight jobs that aren’t the right fit, which is just as important.


Applying for work experience can feel daunting, but remember: if you never try, you’ll never know. Now is the time to take that leap and see where life can take you. Fill out that application, update your CV, post on LinkedIn - take those first steps. Embracing the "You Can" mindset means taking charge of your career development. This involves actively seeking out internships, work experience, and volunteering opportunities while continuously looking for ways to grow.
Many people overlook these opportunities simply because they assume they won’t be selected - but remember, someone has to be chosen. The worst that can happen is that you don’t get it, which is the same outcome as not applying at all. But the best thing that can happen? You get the opportunity - and that can open doors you never imagined. So take the chance, put yourself out there, and see where it leads!

Developing your skills is a powerful way to boost your chances of success. One effective approach is setting regular goals - both small ones for everyday tasks and bigger ones for more complex challenges. Celebrating your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you motivated and build momentum.

One of the most valuable skills you can develop is problem-solving. When faced with a challenge, take a step back and think critically before diving in. Avoid rushing - instead, create a strategy and tackle it with a clear plan. Strong problem-solving skills will set you apart in any career path!
Remember to always look for ways to grow and improve - but don’t feel overwhelmed by all the strategies we’ve covered. Start small and gradually incorporate them into your routine. Progress takes time, and even little steps can lead to big changes.
Most importantly, believe in yourself. You can do it!

Author

Tiffany Igharoro is a university student.

For me, writing has become the perfect medium to  process my experiences and formulate them into well-considered expressions and stories. Through writing for PUSH, I hope to share insights I gain throughout my journey (whether academic or personal) with other young people across the UK! I am a strong believer in the power of personal development and its ability to shape our lives, help us forge career paths and nurture relationships with others and ourselves. My blogs, often peppered with personal anecdotes, always carry a touch of "this is a tool to add to your character building collection"...