A corollary to your suggestion about picking the right career “trap” is to avoid becoming the expert. Many people aspire to become experts in their fields either for the prestige or the sense of satisfaction or the money it pays. The problem with becoming an expert is that you are now “locked in” to your job or career, making it very difficult to get out when you are burnt out or no longer passionate (maybe never were passionate).

Take Hollywood as an example. Actors can sometimes by typecast in the one role that made them famous, and when they want to try different roles it is difficult to find the opportunties.

In my last job I had a conversation with my boss prior to leaving the company. Her remark was, “Why do you want to leave? You are so good at what you do.” There is a fallacy that many believe — if you are good at something it means you like it. I believe in doing my best at whatever job I have, whether I like it or not. It’s easier to do well at a job I like of course.

I wish high school/college had done a better job of preparing me for how to manage a career. I hope young people who are just starting careers will heed your advice and not just follow the status quo.