Monday, May 27, 2024

Rethinking career advice: beyond "follow your passion" for physics students

I started reading a new book a few days ago: "So Good They Can't Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love" by Cal Newport. Having read many self-improvement books before, I can confidently say that Newport's book has already changed my perspective on my professional career and career development in general. Reflecting on my journey thus far, I would like to share some advice with readers of my physics education blog.

Many of you have likely chosen physics (or a related subject) as your major because of a strong high school background or a fascination with big questions about our universe. For me, the latter was true in particular. I was drawn to astrophysics due to my love for documentaries about black holes, science fiction movies, and the job prospects physics offered. Motivated by my passion for astrophysics, I began my undergraduate studies in physics.

Rethinking career advice: beyond "follow your passion" for physics students

I started reading a new book a few days ago: "So Good They Can't Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Lov...