What to do after my studies?

For most of our lives, we've been consumers. From primary school to university, the focus has been on absorbing information, completing assignments, and striving for good grades. Someone else—be it our parents, scholarships, or the government—has footed the bill for our education and living expenses. This prolonged period of consumption can create a disconnect between academic achievements and real-world value.

In academia, success is often measured by grades and accolades. Writing a stellar essay or acing an exam feels rewarding, but these accomplishments don't necessarily translate to tangible value in the professional sphere. The educational system, while rich in knowledge, doesn't always equip us with the tools to produce value that others are willing to pay for.

At its core, the professional world operates on a simple principle: to thrive, you must produce more than you consume. This isn't just a business concept; it's a universal law that applies to individuals and societies alike. Producing value means offering something—skills, services, products—that others find beneficial and are willing to exchange resources for.

Consider this the law of the jungle in economic terms. In the wild, organisms must gather more energy than they expend to survive. Similarly, in our economic ecosystem, contributing value is essential for independence and growth. Relying on consumption without production leads to stagnation and dependency.

Producing value isn't just about working hard; it's about working smart and meeting the needs of others. It's the difference between busywork and meaningful contributions. Value production involves skills and outputs that others find beneficial enough to pay for.

Take, for example, a barista at a coffee shop. They don't just make coffee; they provide a service that customers value and are willing to pay for. If a barista can serve 30 customers an hour instead of 10, they're generating more revenue for the business and can justify a higher wage.

In contrast, activities like studying for an exam or writing a paper, while important for personal development, don't directly produce value for others. They are investments in your potential to produce value in the future but are not valuable outputs in themselves.

There's often a gap between what universities teach and what the market demands. While higher education institutions offer a wealth of knowledge, not all courses enhance your ability to produce value in a professional context. Some programs are rich in theory but lack practical applications that employers or clients are seeking.

This misalignment can leave graduates feeling unprepared and undervalued. It's important to critically assess your education in terms of marketability. Ask yourself: "Does this knowledge or skill enable me to solve problems or meet needs that others have?" If the answer is no, it might be time to seek additional skills or experiences that bridge this gap.

Embarking on a career path requires an honest assessment of your abilities. Start by listing your skills, experiences, and passions. Then, evaluate which of these are in demand. Do you have technical skills like coding, design, or data analysis? Can you communicate effectively or manage projects? These are competencies that employers and clients value.

It's also helpful to consider feedback from others. Friends, mentors, and even potential employers can provide insights into how your skills are perceived. Remember, the goal is to identify abilities that not only interest you but are also marketable.

One of the best ways to understand your value in the market is by engaging with it directly. Applying for jobs—even if you're still studying or not yet ready to accept a position—can provide invaluable experience. The process of crafting resumes, writing cover letters, and attending interviews helps you articulate your value proposition.

Each application is an opportunity to learn. You might receive feedback that highlights areas for improvement or uncovers strengths you hadn't considered. Moreover, interacting with employers gives you a sense of what skills are in demand and how you can position yourself to meet those needs.

If traditional employment doesn't appeal to you, entrepreneurship offers an alternative route to value creation. Being an entrepreneur means identifying problems and developing solutions that people are willing to pay for. It's about innovation, resilience, and a keen understanding of market needs.

Opportunities for entrepreneurship are everywhere. Start by observing your surroundings:

• Personal Needs: Is there a product or service you wish existed?
• Community Gaps: What issues do people in your community face?
• Industry Trends: Are there emerging markets or technologies you can capitalize on?

For instance, if you notice that local businesses lack a strong online presence, and you have web development skills, you could offer your services to help them reach a wider audience. Magic Heidi makes it easy to start your business by sending your first invoices.

There's a comfort in academia and certain public sector roles that can be appealing. These environments often provide stability and a clear structure, delaying the need to confront the uncertainties of the broader market. Pursuing a Ph.D. or a teaching position can sometimes be a way to extend the familiar rhythms of student life.

However, staying within this bubble may limit your exposure to opportunities for growth and higher earnings. It's important to recognize whether this path aligns with your long-term goals or if it's a way to avoid stepping out of your comfort zone.

Deciding on a career path is a personal journey that depends on your goals, values, and circumstances. Here's a closer look at each option:

• Employee: Working for an employer provides structure, stability, and resources. It can be a great way to gain experience and learn from others in your field.
• Entrepreneur: Running your own business offers autonomy and the potential for significant rewards but comes with risks and requires a proactive mindset.
• Public Sector: Roles in government or academia can offer job security and the opportunity to contribute to public good but may have limitations on earnings and innovation.

Consider factors like your risk tolerance, desire for independence, financial goals, and passion for certain industries when making your decision.

Transitioning from student life to the professional world is a significant milestone. It requires a shift from consuming knowledge to producing value. By understanding this fundamental principle, conducting an honest self-assessment, and actively engaging with the market, you can navigate this transition successfully.

Whether you choose to be an employee, entrepreneur, or public servant, remember that producing more than you consume is key to personal and professional fulfillment. Embrace the journey, stay curious, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.