What you need to think about?

College? University? Trade School? Or Job?

Hello Ladies and Gents, I wrote this small piece for those currently contemplating what their next move is. Whether you’re about to graduate from high school, deciding to go back to school, or leaving or joining the military (click here for more information), here’s what you need to think about. Now, here at Black Sheep HQ we will always push to encourage the continuation of education in some way shape or form.

However, this does not always mean going to an institution to pay thousands for a “government approved education.” Unfortunately, getting that piece of paper does not always mean a job or a job that will pay well. Unfortunately, getting a degree may not put you ahead of someone else without one necessarily.

Before making a move, Here’s what you need to think about.

So first things first, think about this, does what you want to do require an education or can you work your way up. Next, can you easily get a certificate and learn as much as students earning their bachelors? Trust me on this one, I was certified through ISSA, USPA, and ACS. Well into my bachelors I figured out that I had already learned everything being taught in my certification courses.

Here’s what you need to think about. The ability to network with professionals in the field, participating in the research…etc, was the only benefit for me, but if that’s not you then don’t waste your time or money.

Next, I IMPLORE YOU and I cannot stress this enough, think long term.

I came from a long line of jobs in hard labor and knew this held no future for me because of the tolls it takes. I did this for 8 years, starting as kid laying brick, moving to landscaping to electrical, learning how to wire houses to commercial buildings, managing a warehouse, then finishing my tenure in the field with full blown home remodeling.

Here’s what you need to think about. Most days are a grind in 100+ degree weather. So back to my point if you are not trying to stay in a particular field then go to college, but think long and hard before signing on for school loan scams.

“Think long term!” Life is short. Enjoy your years.

Third, and back to my previous point because I cannot stress this enough, THINK LONG TERM. Do not go into a field that is highly saturated or will most likely be automated in the future. Be Smart! As humans, we are in a losing race to adapt to our future problems. I’m sure you have seen it before, but automation and innovation is the name of the game because it increases efficiency and cuts costs.

So be sure to ask yourself, “Is this job that is going to be around in ten years?” or “Will there be enough demand that would allow me to be successful?” If the answer is no, then here’s what you need to think about, “Is this career something I enjoy? Is it something I am passionate about? Am I after the knowledge or the paycheck?” If your response is the latter, then I would go ahead and say go for it. Life is short. Enjoy your years.

Here’s what you need to think about, “is this job going to be around in ten years?” or “Will there be enough demand that would allow me to be successful?”

As I stated before, I went into a bachelors that was pretty much a pointless curriculum after all my certifications. Nonetheless, I enjoyed every second of it! Solidifying knowledge that I already had was worth it. It made me a better trainer, athlete, and coach.

Now, you must ask yourself the very same question? As Black Sheep, we are always original, we follow the path that makes sense to us and makes us not only grow, but happy as well. So what will your path be? If you have anything further to add, please feel free to comment down below or email us. If you would like to support the Black Sheep movement, feel free to visit our shop or subscribe to our mailing list.