What's the difference between a job, a career, and a vocation?

I'm doing some college prep and trying to understand the differences between a job, a career, and a vocation. Could someone explain how they differ and which path might be best?

All three terms – job, career, and vocation – refer to how you engage in work, but they differ based on the duration, purpose, and personal fulfillment associated with the work.

A job is often short term and performs the function of earning money to meet immediate needs or goals. Jobs may not always directly align with an individual's long-term interests or desired professional path. They often have a fixed set of tasks and responsibilities, like working at a retail store or food service.

A career, on the other hand, is more long-term and typically relates to a professional path in a specific industry or field. Careers generally involve some level of progression or advancement over time, often involving a sequence of jobs in the same or related fields that build upon each other. A career usually requires a specific set of skills or education, like being a lawyer or a doctor.

A vocation is less about the job you do, and more about your calling or life’s purpose. It is the work you feel destined to do and often intertwines with your personal values, passion, and fulfillment. Examples of vocations might include a dedicated teacher who loves nurturing young minds, or a social worker driven by the desire to help vulnerable populations.

As for which path might be best, it largely depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and values. Some people might prefer to have a job that allows them to prioritize their personal activities, while others might be more focused on building a career. If you are able to identify and pursue your vocation, it may lead to a higher level of personal satisfaction. A balanced approach to planning your future could involve taking up short-term jobs to sustain yourself while building your career, and searching for opportunities in line with your vocational aspirations. Remember that these paths are not mutually exclusive and can shift in different stages of your life.