When exploring your dream career, it is crucial that you take some time out to get to know yourself better. You may think this is odd advice � certainly no one would know you better than yourself � but despite your reservations, do try some of the self-exploration tests available online. You may uncover more than you thought you knew.

One or more of these elements � personal interests, skills, personality, and values � may have a great influence in your choice of career. Some people choose to follow their passion, regardless of what others say or how little money it will make them. Others look to the career that pays them the highest salary and gives them prestige.

As you start to know yourself better, you will be able to identify career choices that are best for you and have the highest chances of giving you a fulfilling career. Besides carrying out self-exploration tests, you may want to consider talking to people whom you think know you best. These could be your parents, siblings, close friends, a teacher or a mentor.

There are many self-exploration tests available online that can help you determine your career interests and personality. Here are some useful links:

http://www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip
This website contains an interest profiling tool that can help you discover your interests and how it is linked to things you might like to do in the working world.

http://www.onetonline.org/find/descriptor/browse/Interests/
Use this website to find out which occupations best match a set of work values that include achievement, independence, recognition, relationships, support and working conditions.

http://personality-testing.info/tests/RIASEC.php
Want to know what your Holland Code is? Take this test to find out which group you belong to and the categories of occupations that are most suited to your group.

http://www.123test.com/career-test/
Here is another career test that will help you determine your Holland Code. At the end of the test, a list of suggested occupations will be provided based on the level of education you choose.

Disclaimer
These online tests are a great way to start in getting to know more about your personality, skills and interests, and how it relates to different careers. However, do make an appointment with an education counselor to discuss your options further before you make a decision. You can get in touch with the education counselors from your schools or from student counselors of respective higher education institutions or meet them at education fairs or open day events.