What is the Difference Between Vocation and Career?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The difference between vocation and career lies in their definitions, purpose, and scope. Here are the key distinctions between the two:
- Definition: Vocation comes from the Latin word "vocare," meaning "to call." It refers to a calling or a sense of purpose in one's life, often associated with a relationship with God or a higher power. On the other hand, a career is a series of positions held within a particular field, such as a person's professional trajectory in a specific industry or occupation.
- Purpose: A vocation is a mission or calling from God, and it encompasses the whole answer to the question, "Why am I alive?". It is a meaningful work through which God uses an individual to serve others. In contrast, a career is pursued to achieve success in a specific field, often associated with personal growth, financial stability, and social status.
- Scope: A vocation is a broader, more comprehensive concept that extends beyond a person's career. It may include various aspects of one's life, such as relationships, personal growth, and service to others. A career, however, is more focused on a specific field or industry and includes a sequence of positions or jobs that a person holds throughout their life.
In summary, a vocation is a broader concept that encompasses a person's calling or purpose in life, while a career is a series of positions held within a specific field or industry. A vocation often includes various aspects of one's life, such as relationships and personal growth, whereas a career focuses on professional achievements and success in a particular field.
Comparative Table: Vocation vs Career
Here is a table summarizing the differences between vocation and career:
Aspect | Vocation | Career |
---|---|---|
Definition | A sense of purpose or calling in your work | A professional journey and progression |
Motivation | Passion and calling | Professional development, financial stability, success |
Commitment | Call or commitment to lifelong service | Multiple shifts and job changes are possible |
Fulfillment | Personal satisfaction and making a positive difference are the main focus | Prioritize financial rewards, stability, and growth |
Values and Passion | Alignment with values and passions | May or may not align with values and passions |
In summary, a vocation is a calling or a sense of purpose in one's work, often associated with personal fulfillment and making a positive difference. On the other hand, a career is a professional journey and progression, typically involving multiple jobs or professions, and is often motivated by financial rewards, stability, and growth.
- Vocation vs Profession
- Career vs Occupation
- Career vs Job
- Career vs Profession
- Profession vs Job
- Profession vs Occupation
- Work vs Job
- Job Title vs Occupation
- Career Planning vs Succession Planning
- Discipline vs Profession
- CV (Curriculum vitae) vs Resume
- Social Service vs Social Work
- Virtue vs Vice
- School vs Life
- Culture vs Lifestyle
- Fate vs Destiny
- Commerce vs Business
- Caretaker vs Caregiver
- Occupation vs Designation