A framework exists that posits individuals actively build their career paths through a process of exploration, meaning-making, and action. This approach emphasizes the subjective experiences and personal narratives of job seekers as they navigate the complexities of the labor market. For example, an individual might reconstruct past work experiences, identifying patterns of satisfaction and dissatisfaction to inform future career choices. This reconstructive process forms the foundation for subsequent decisions.
This theoretical orientation is valuable because it acknowledges the dynamic and evolving nature of careers, moving away from static assessments and predetermined paths. It allows practitioners to empower clients by helping them to understand their personal histories, values, and skills, thus fostering greater agency in their vocational trajectories. Historically, career counseling often focused on matching individuals to pre-defined job roles, but this perspective shifts the focus to the individual’s active role in shaping their own career story.
