Aspiring to have a dream job is a common goal for many professionals. However, finding your ideal position can be a difficult task that requires patience and consideration. The following tips will help you find your perfect career while avoiding common barriers to success.

Practice Self-Reflection

Performing a self-assessment can help you determine what type of job will be a good fit for your personality and skills. Try to think about what you would be compelled to do even if you didn’t get paid for it and use that as a starting point for your search. You can also ask friends and family for their insight. They may point you in the direction of a career that you didn’t even know existed.

Try Something New

Trying something new can give you a better perspective of what you like and don’t like. Consider taking a course, joining an organization or volunteering in a field that interests you. Whether or not you are able to pursue the career afterward, it will at least provide you with a solid idea of what your preferences and skill sets are.

Make a List of What You Want in a Job

Start by writing down all the aspects that you want to see in your career. This could include work-life balance, salary, job location and the ability to travel. Once you have a comprehensive list, prioritize the items that are most important to you and base your searches on those criteria.

Research the Industry or Job Title

Once you have a list of dream jobs, begin researching the requirements to be successful in that role. You can do this by putting on your researcher hat and searching the Internet, libraries and attending job fairs. You can also contact professionals in the industry or job you are interested in and request informational interviews or phone calls. Gathering this data will give you a first-hand look into what it’s like to work in the field and what the expectations are.

Determine if Your Dream Job Requires Certification or Licensure

Some jobs require specific qualifications, such as advanced degrees or licensing. Those who wish to become dolphin trainers, for example, will need to have certain educational and experience requirements that must be met. Doing some research online can help you figure out the exact requirements for your dream job.

Don’t Give Up

When you’re pursuing your dream job, don’t be afraid to take some risks. The journey to your dream job may not always be comfortable, but it’s the only way to know if you have what it takes to do well in that career. Stay strong and lean on your support system to keep moving forward when you get discouraged.

Pursuing your dream job is a long process that may take weeks or months to complete. Be patient and remain motivated by creating a list of your career goals and setting short- and long-term career objectives. This will keep you on track and keep you from falling into the “80-percent-zone,” a gray realm of mental laziness that robs you of your motivation to continue your search.