A Career Development theory we wish we’d known earlier
Planned Happenstance Theory
Many of us feel pressure to know exactly what we want to do for a career from an early age. Some people are fortunate enough to have a clear vision, but for many, the journey is less straightforward. Questions like “What jobs are out there?”, “Which ones are in demand?”, “What career will pay me well?”, and “How can I find a job that gives me creative freedom?” often swirl in our minds, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain.
When I left school, I didn’t have a clear idea of what I wanted to do. Like many, I chose my degree based on the subjects I excelled in, not because I felt particularly passionate about them or had a vision of where they would take me. Even after graduating, I found myself in the same position—unsure of the next step, without a roadmap to guide me.
Looking back, one concept I wish I had known about earlier is Krumboltz’s Planned Happenstance Theory. This theory emphasises that unplanned events, opportunities, and experiences can play a critical role in shaping our careers. Rather than trying to map out every detail of your professional life, the theory encourages individuals to embrace uncertainty, take advantage of unexpected opportunities, and develop skills like curiosity, persistence, and adaptability. These qualities allow you to turn chance encounters or unplanned experiences into meaningful career advancements.
What Planned Happenstance taught me is that career paths are rarely linear. It’s okay not to have everything figured out—your journey might involve twists and turns, and that’s perfectly normal. Along the way, you pick up valuable skills and insights from each experience, even if those experiences don’t seem immediately connected to your “ideal” career.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with people from incredibly diverse professional backgrounds—actors, carpenters, artists, business professionals, and many more. What I’ve realised is that individuals with varied experiences often bring unique perspectives and creative problem-solving skills that companies truly value. For example, someone with a theatre background might excel in roles requiring communication and adaptability, while a carpenter’s hands-on expertise can inspire innovative approaches to project management or design.
It’s also important to understand that success doesn’t always come from following the traditional “one-job-for-life” trajectory. Careers today are often fluid, allowing us to explore, experiment, and pivot. You may find that your passion emerges after trying different roles or industries. The skills you acquire from one job—whether technical, interpersonal, or organisational—are rarely wasted. They build your confidence and broaden your horizons, often preparing you for opportunities you hadn’t even considered.
So, if you’re feeling lost, know that it’s okay. You don’t need to have all the answers right now. Instead of focusing solely on the end goal, focus on saying “yes” to new experiences and embracing the unexpected. Take a course, volunteer for a project, or network with people in industries that interest you. Sometimes, the most valuable opportunities come from taking a chance and stepping outside your comfort zone.
Careers aren’t just about the destination—they’re about the journey. And while that journey might feel uncertain at times, it’s often in the moments of uncertainty that we find clarity and purpose.
Written by: Thom Howell RCDP