Career Planning Through Values: Helping Your Teen Identify What Matters Most

Helping your teen identify what matters most ensures a more solid career-development foundation

As your teen starts thinking about their future, one of the most powerful ways to guide them in making aligned career choices is by helping them identify their core values. After all, a fulfilling career isn’t just about making money or choosing a popular job—it’s about finding a path that resonates with who they are and what truly matters to them.

In this post, I’ll walk you through why values matter in career planning and share practical ways you can help your teen uncover what’s most important to them in their work.

Why Values Matter in Career Planning

Values are the beliefs, principles, and priorities that guide our decisions and actions. When your teen’s career aligns with their values, they are more likely to feel fulfilled, motivated, and satisfied in their work. Conversely, a career that doesn’t align with their values can lead to burnout, dissatisfaction, and even resentment.

Think about it: If your teen values creativity and autonomy, a job in a structured, highly regulated environment may not be the best fit. But a career that encourages innovation and offers flexibility would allow them to thrive. Helping them explore and define these values ensures they are on a path that feels authentic and meaningful.

How to Help Your Teen Identify Their Values

Here are a few practical ways you can support your teen in identifying what matters most to them:

1. Start with Reflection

Encourage your teen to think about moments when they’ve felt truly fulfilled, proud, or happy. Ask questions like:

• When have you felt most energized at school or work?

• What types of activities or causes do you feel passionate about?

• What kind of work environment makes you feel productive and happy?

These reflections will help them pinpoint the values that are most important to them.

2. Use Values Lists

Sometimes, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to values. Provide your teen with a list of common values to consider—words like “creativity,” “independence,” “helping others,” “security,” and “adventure.” Ask them to select the 5-10 values that resonate most with them.

BONUS: Click HERE for a values clarification exercise I use with my clients

3. Discuss Career Options Based on Values

Once your teen has a clearer idea of their values, talk about career options that align with those values. For example:

• If they value helping others, a career in healthcare, social work, or education could be a good fit.

• If they value financial security, a career in finance, law, or engineering might be appealing.

• If they value creativity and flexibility, a career in graphic design, writing, or entrepreneurship could be ideal.

  
  

Helping your teen match their values to real-world careers will give them a stronger sense of direction and purpose.

BONUS: Click HERE for more on the 16 Career Clusters

4. Encourage Open Communication

Keep the conversation open and non-judgmental. Let your teen lead, and try not to impose your own values or ideas on them. Remind them that there’s no “one right answer”—only paths that align with their personal values and goals.

BONUS: Click HERE to get a list of my top conversation starters to get your teen to open up!

Why This Conversation Matters

When you help your teen explore their values, you’re giving them the tools to make informed, aligned decisions about their future. This isn’t about telling them what they should do—it’s about helping them discover what feels right for them. The more they understand their values, the more confident they’ll be in pursuing a career that truly resonates with who they are.

If you’re ready to guide your teen in identifying what matters most to them, take the first step today by having an open, honest conversation. With your support, they’ll be better equipped to build a career plan that reflects their true passions and aspirations.

Want even more support? Good News! I am launching a new course in March for parents and their teens! Download my FREE Guide: 5 Essential Steps to Guide Your Teen’s Post High School Journey TODAY and be the first to  hear all about it and receive special subscribers-only bonuses!