5 Simple Strategies to Help You Find Career Clarity

If you’ve ever thought, “I know I need a change, but I have no idea where to start,” it’s time to get unstuck. Whether you’re years into your career or just starting out, feeling unclear about your next step is a common concern. But according to Muse and Fairygodboss career coach Cassie Spencer, finding direction doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

We joined Spencer during a Coach Connect Live session hosted by The Muse and Fairygodboss to talk about how to find clarity without overhauling your life or quitting your job tomorrow. 

(Watch the recording to hear more on this topic and get to know Cassie Spencer.)

1. Start with your non-negotiables

Before thinking about job titles or company perks, take a step back and ask: “What do I absolutely need in my work life to feel grounded and supported?” This might include remote flexibility, a certain salary range, healthcare benefits—or something as specific as pet insurance.

“Non-negotiables give you a baseline,” said Spencer. “They help you say yes to the right things and no to the ones that don’t align.” 

Make this a living list. It might change over time, and that’s OK. The goal is to understand what matters most right now, whether for you, your family, or your future self.

2. Tune in to what energizes you

We often focus on what we dislike about work—instead, flip that script. Keep track of what gives you energy during your day-to-day tasks. Was it leading a meeting? Solving a tough problem? Helping a teammate through a process?

“The things you lose track of time doing? That’s a good sign,” Spencer said.

Start jotting down notes, voice memos, or sticky notes throughout your day. These tiny insights can lead to big a-ha moments over time—and help you identify the kind of work you actually enjoy.

3. Name your skills—even the ones you overlook

One of Spencer's biggest challenges is people underestimating their skills, especially soft ones like communication, organization, or collaboration.

Performance reviews, peer feedback, or even compliments from coworkers can help you spot strengths you’ve forgotten.

“Clients will say, ‘I don’t have any special skills,’ and then I read their review and it’s full of praise for their leadership or creativity,” Spencer said. “We just don’t always recognize it in ourselves.”

Build a list of both hard and soft skills—then start to notice how they show up in job descriptions, conversations, and interviews.

4. Experiment without making a huge leap

You don’t need to quit your job to try something new. In fact, Spencer recommends small experiments as a way to test out different roles or industries.

Say yes to a new project, volunteer outside of work, join a committee, or even take on a low-stakes freelance gig. Explore without pressure.

“Trying something is often the fastest way to gain clarity,” she said. “And it doesn’t have to take over your life.”

There are also plenty of free and low-cost courses online to explore new skills—from UX design to content marketing. Dipping your toes in lets you make more informed career choices, with less risk.

5. Reverse-engineer your ideal future

Once you’ve narrowed down your values, skills, and interests, think ahead. What would you want your career to look like in 10, 20, or even 30 years?

Spencer loves using the “career obituary” exercise from the book Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans: At the end of your career, what do you hope people say about your work? What legacy do you want to leave?

Then, reverse-engineer the steps to get there. Ask yourself:

• What jobs or industries align with that vision?

• What companies support those values?

• What actions can I take today that move me closer to that goal?

Final thought: It’s not about having all the answers

Spencer reminds us that career clarity isn’t about identifying a single perfect job title. It’s about understanding yourself so you can make intentional decisions—and ask the right questions when opportunities arise.

“This work becomes your roadmap,” she said. “It guides your job search, networking conversations, interview prep, and even the questions you ask in interviews.”