Sometimes I feel like an anomaly. I work a 9–5, run my own business, and spend my free time learning. I listen to world news podcasts, devour personal and professional development books, read up on the history of countries around the world, and spend my television time on shows that stimulate my brain.

Are you looking to build your career from the ground up, to change industries, or to start up your own business? Are you not quite sure what path you want to take? Here are a few tips for finding your sweet spot and figuring out where you should begin.

The Internet and mobile devices opened an incredible opportunity for an affordable, or even free, business education through podcasts, blogs, and business platforms. There are abundant resources available online, beyond the traditional classroom, and these are just a few that motivate and educate me post-college in business, marketing, relationships, networking, and even self-care.

Networking.

I know, I know. It's the dreaded word that even the most extroverted of us tend to hate.