Some weeks ago, I had a conversation with a friend and former client that reminded me that fulfillment is a long haul journey.
Some of you may know that your current job is not the ideal one, but are not clear on which one would be.
Some of you may know exactly what your dream job is but can’t execute on it for family reasons or other real life reasons.
All of you, despite feeling stuck, still can do many things in your everyday to get closer to fulfillment while the right circumstances allow you to change.
“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”
Did you know that feeling stuck is just a signal? In fact, a very positive signal!
Feeling stuck is a sign that a need is not being met.
Which need? The need for growth.
So what can you do to grow while real life is messy and is in the way of your dream job?
> The first thing to do is nurture the right mindset.
If your personal situation doesn’t allow you to change in the short term, positivize your current situation, as the quote says “learn to dance in the rain”. This is about leaning towards what you can control, what’s in your power, not the other way around. It’s about persevering and choosing to enjoy the present moment. Even if things take longer than wished, just keep moving forward. Try to let go worries, judgement and frustration and trust the process, enjoy the journey, it’s leading you somewhere worthwhile.
> Then take the opportunity to deepen your self awareness
When you feel stuck, understanding who you are, your limiting beliefs, your strengths and reconnect with it all will bring clarity of possible next steps and boost your motivation. There are plenty of resources out there, tests/surveys, books, blogs, personal development experts, videos, online courses, coaches, etc. You name it. Choose the one that resonates the most with you and make time for you.
«You will never find time for anything. You must make it.»
Charles Buxton. M
> Focus on your long term goals
Despite the stress you are in don’t lose sight of your long term goals and your why. Take time to review and confirm those goals. For the ones who might be thinking, long term goals!?! Not sure I have them, then take the time to think big, to dream. What would you like to accomplish or experience in life?
> While you wait for better circumstances to change jobs, make the most of the time
What do I mean? I mean to look for other ways to fulfill the need of growth. Yes, your work is a major source of fulfillment but there are many others, maybe a hobby, your family, travelling, etc. Start thinking on different things that you like to do, that you know put a smile on your face, activities that make you loose sight of time. Think of these activities both in your personal and professional context.
Here are some of the things I would suggest to invest time in, while keeping in mind a future work change
Update your skills:
Maybe you’ve been working for 20 years in the same type of job, things evolve, are your skills really top notch? A classic example are digital skills. How good are you at them? How well do you understand online businesses, online marketing, AI, bitcoins, etc? Give a thought of the skills you may need in your dream job. I’m sure you can start today to learn something new that will be very valued in your next step.
Strengthen your talents:
I’m a firm believer on building your career on your strengths. What are the things that you do naturally well and that you could boost even more? You could think again on a course, but what about using your current job? Maybe you especially enjoy team development. How could you do more of this in your everyday? Or your could even think on side projects that will need your talents.
Try new things:
It’s time to take the bucket list from the drawer. Always wanted to try a photography course? Learn a new language? Visit a new country? Start a new sport? Train for a marathon? Get a dog? Explore, explore, explore. You might discover new skills, new passions and who knows if new opportunities.
Look for volunteer opportunities or new projects on the side
As we were saying before side projects, or volunteering can be very interesting at some points in life. It’s an opportunity to give away your skills, but also to acquire new skills or to be exposed to a new industry, position, new culture, etc. Even to test a potential position or market you consider could be linked to your dream job. Be purposeful about what opportunities to engage with so they are aligned with your long term goals in some way.
Network and meet new people
This one is a biggie. You might be a very social, outgoing person but I also know that your everyday is very stressful and you can get trapped in your daily routine without time to meet new people. If you already have in mind a work change, this is even more urgent and you need to put an extra effort to reconnect with your contacts and meet new people. Not only because they can help you immensely in finding your next step but because it opens your mind and you will learn.
You might be thinking… networking… cringing.
Yes in the past, but now, there are more and more events out there super interesting, motivational and out of the box. For the ones who know me more, you know I’m biased and I will strongly recommend hubdot. But honestly, there are tons of conferences, industry gatherings, communities popping up all over. You just need to find the one that fits you. Leave your shyness behind and go for it!
So, yes, real life and family obligations can come your way and delay a work change, but as you’ve read, it can be the opportunity of so much, and foremost GROWTH.
“When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it.”
Henry Ford
I’d love to hear from you in the comments, how will you be using this time for?
“Hate Mondays? 5 Steps to Unlock a More Fulfilling career.»
To your fulfillment,
Sophie