Stacking the Deck: A Career Exploration Guide for Youth

The journey to a fulfilling career begins with understanding who you are and what you want. The  Career Exploration workshop, themed “Stacking the Deck,” provides individuals with essential  tools to explore career paths aligned with their values, strengths, and goals. Here’s an overview  of the program’s approach to building confidence and direction in career exploration. 

Understanding Yourself and Setting Goals 

Career exploration starts with self-awareness. Participants begin by mapping their unique talents,  motivations, and strengths, gaining clarity on their skills and values. The workshop encourages  youth to ask, “What does it take to win?” in their chosen fields and empowers them to make  intentional, informed decisions about their paths. 

Values and Strengths Mapping 

The program emphasizes identifying core values and strengths as the foundation of career  success. For instance: 

• Value: Helping others 

• Strength: Communication 

• Potential Careers: Social Worker, Counselor, Teacher 

This exercise not only provides career insights but also helps participants visualize pathways  where their strengths can thrive. 

Goal Setting with SMART Goals 

Participants are guided through setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound (SMART) goals. They craft a 6-month career goal to serve as a tangible milestone in their  journey. This approach keeps young professionals focused and motivated, bridging the gap  between aspirations and actions. 

Affirming the Future 

The session wraps up by encouraging youth to write positive affirmations about their future  careers, reinforcing a vision of success and resilience. For example, “In the future, I see myself  making a difference as a mental health counselor.” 

By stacking the deck with the right tools—self-awareness, goal-setting, and positive  affirmation—empowers individuals to approach their futures with confidence, clarity, and  purpose.