The meaning of difficulties in career narratives: the case of sports graduates

Abstract

As the careers of today are no longer typically stable and predictable, people should expect to encounter many challenges during their working life. The present study aimed to explore the meaning of difficulties in modern career-themed life narratives. A total of 54 Finnish sports graduates’ narratives were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis to identify the meanings attributed to difficulties. Findings revealed that difficulties both shaped the plot and initiated multiple types of reflections in the narratives. The paper suggests that difficulties should be considered as a meaningful part of career narratives and discusses the application of the findings in career counselling.