In today’s fast-paced digital era, young people have greater opportunities than ever to shape their own career paths. Social media has become a platform for self-expression, sharing achievements, and building personal branding. But beneath all this enthusiasm lies a quiet, recurring question: "Is this really the right path for me?"

Such feelings are completely normal. According to the theory of Social Comparison by Leon Festinger (1954), humans naturally tend to compare themselves to others. While healthy comparison can inspire motivation, social pressure—especially exposure to others’ success—often leads to Fear of Missing Out (FOMO).

FOMO in the career world frequently triggers anxiety and confusion. Questions like “Why haven’t I reached that point yet?” or “Am I falling behind?” can lead to a career identity crisis, where someone begins to lose direction and becomes unsure of the meaning or purpose behind their professional choices.

Exploring new fields beyond one's academic background can indeed open up fresh opportunities. However, it’s equally important to stay realistic. Changing direction without adequate preparation can lead to serious challenges, including loss of focus and valuable time. To help navigate your career path more wisely, consider the following reflective steps:

1. Choose a Career Path That Supports Your Life

An ideal career is not solely about salary—it should also support emotional well-being, time balance, and sustainability. Focus on a field aligned with your current skills or one that can realistically be developed. Success doesn’t have to be instant.

2. Reduce Passive Social Media Consumption

Remember, social media only shows the highlights of someone’s life. Overconsumption can create unnecessary pressure. Instead, use these platforms as tools for learning, not comparison.

3. Engage in Self-Reflection

Ask yourself:

• "Do I enjoy what I’m currently doing?"

• "When was the last time I felt proud of my growth—not because of external praise, but because I knew I was growing?"

These questions help you ensure that your choices reflect your true values and personal aspirations.

A career is more than just a way to earn a living—it is a journey of growth and finding meaning. As a future professional, you are a unique individual with talents that cannot be measured linearly against others. The world doesn’t need replicas—it needs the authentic version of you.

At Dian Nusantara University (UNDIRA), career development is a top priority. Through its Career and Alumni Development Bureau, you can take advantage of various facilities, such as:

• Career Consulting: Professional guidance to help you discover a career path that fits your strengths and interests.

• Career Portal & CV Builder: Digital tools to help you build your professional profile and explore job opportunities aligned with your field.

• Campus Hiring: UNDIRA has even hosted Campus Hiring events with companies such as PT Pajakku, showing its commitment to its students' futures.

• Collaborations with Kinobi and Glints: UNDIRA actively partners with career platforms like Kinobi and Glints to provide regular training seminars and updated job listings.

There is no single path to success—only the one that aligns best with who you are and what you believe in. So, know yourself, develop your potential, and trust this truth: You are the most powerful artist of your own future.