Work, livelihood, and career are three key aspects that shape a person’s professional and personal journey. NCERT Class 12 Home Science Part 1 Chapter 1 explains these concepts in detail, focusing on how individuals choose work, balance career aspirations, and develop skills for earning a livelihood. It also covers the relationship between work satisfaction, economic stability, and personal growth.
I am writing about this chapter because it is highly relevant for students who are at the stage of making career decisions. Many of us often think career planning starts only after college, but in reality, it begins much earlier. This chapter helps students understand the different forms of work – paid, unpaid, self-employment, and service-oriented work – and how each contributes to society. It also explains the skills required for various careers and how lifestyle choices impact our work life. In today’s world, where job markets are changing rapidly due to technology and global trends, having clarity on work and livelihood is essential. This knowledge can guide students in making informed career choices and help them prepare for challenges ahead.
Overview of Work, Livelihood, and Career
The chapter explains that work refers to any purposeful activity, whether paid or unpaid, that contributes to personal or community well-being. Livelihood is about securing the means to meet daily needs through various sources like jobs, businesses, or farming. Career refers to a lifelong journey of learning, working, and personal growth.
It also talks about:
- Types of work – formal, informal, skilled, and unskilled
- Factors affecting career choice – personal interests, education, skills, economic needs, and social influences
- Work-life balance – importance of managing professional and personal responsibilities
- Changing work patterns – rise of freelancing, remote jobs, and gig economy opportunities
Skills and Preparation for a Career
According to the chapter, students should focus on developing:
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Time management and problem-solving abilities
- Technical and vocational skills
- Adaptability to changing work environments
Examples like teachers, fashion designers, nutritionists, IT professionals, and entrepreneurs are used in the chapter to explain how different career paths require different preparation.
Download PDF
Students can easily download the official NCERT Class 12 Home Science Part 1 Chapter 1: Work, Livelihood and Career PDF from here.