
Summary
Most people stumble into careers by chasing open jobs—career design flips that script. This lesson introduces the Ikigai framework and connects lifestyle choices to salary expectations so students can architect a future that fits who they are.
Bellringer: Solve Any Problem
- Pose the "unlimited money" hypothetical and invite quick shares.
- Redirect silly answers toward problems or needs students genuinely care about.
Instruction
- Contrast career design with traditional job hunting.
- Introduce Ikigai's four circles and have students sketch and brainstorm their own.
- Tie values and cost-of-living realities to future lifestyle planning.
Discussion: High Salary Trade-Offs
- Surface pros and cons of chasing the biggest paycheck.
- Push students to weigh fulfillment, flexibility, and dependence on one income source.
Activity: What's Next for Me?
- Students complete the What's Next for Me? worksheet.
- Circulate to prompt deeper reflection on values and career direction.
Wrap-Up & Assessment
- Explain your top career interest.
- Share two of your personal values that align with this career direction.
| Est. Time | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 5 min | Bellringer: Solve Any Problem |
|
| 15 min | Instruction |
|
| 8 min | Discussion: High Salary Trade-Offs |
|
| 12 min | Activity: What's Next for Me? |
|
| 5 min | Wrap-Up & Assessment |
|
Lesson Prep

What's Next For Me? Worksheet
Students identify strengths and interests and envision their life in 10 years
Class Presentation
Includes a 16-slide deck with teacher notes. Present from Banzai, download a PDF, or copy it to Google Slides.
Presentations, Ready to Go
- Built-in PresentationPresent full screen, straight from Banzai
- Copy to Google SlidesMake an editable copy for your class
- Download or PrintSave as a PDF or print
- Teacher NotesSlide-by-slide guidance, printable as one handout
Unit 10: Career Design

Career Design
Most people stumble into careers by chasing open jobs—career design flips that script. This lesson introduces the Ikigai framework and connects lifestyle choices to salary expectations so students can architect a future that fits who they are.

Startup Costs of Independence
Moving out isn't just about rent—it's a financial minefield where hidden costs ambush the unprepared. This lesson maps the true startup costs of independence and builds a plan for the riskiest 90 days of a young adult's financial life.

Career Research
Yesterday's stable career is today's automated task. This lesson explores labor supply and demand, market research tools, and how to spot threats — and opportunities — before they reshape your industry.
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