In our last post, we discussed the complicated relationship that often develops alongside the concept of our finances.
In this month’s installment of Exploring the Circle of Life, we’re going to expand on our relationship to wealth by addressing our relationship to our jobs and career. Before we dive in, I’d love to highlight that it’s absolutely okay if you feel that developing a career path is not one of your inherent values! This post offers an opportunity to reflect on the role our jobs play in our lives.
Even if a career is not a high-level priority for you, our jobs are still an integral part of our lives. Think about it. We spend nearly one third of our lives at work, and forge some of our most meaningful relationships through our jobs. Our jobs therefore not only shape our financial stability and our relationship to wealth; but they also impact our relationships and level of fulfillment. Combined, these elements contribute to our overall level of happiness.
Despite this enormous impact, many of us do feel unfulfilled or stuck in careers that do not align with our passions and aspirations. It is therefore important that we give ourselves the opportunity to reflect on the elements of our ideal career path, and how to reach those goals.
If finding your ideal career path seems inaccessible at the moment, use this post to think about ways you can better connect with your current job that might offer a bit more balance. Below, we have highlighted 5 tools to help you re-evaluate your relationship to your job, and to help you reflect on the most crucial elements you need to have a thriving and supportive career.
- Self-Reflection and Assessment: Since we spend a good amount of our lives at work, it’s important to reflect on your values, interests, skills, and natural talents. Consider what truly ignites your enthusiasm and gives you a sense of purpose. Identifying these elements will enable you to align them with potential career options, or your current career, and determine areas for growth. Additionally, consider the personality traits your bring to the workplace, as everyone has different strengths that help us thrive. There are even fun personality tests you can take that help you figure out which careers may be most supportive of your values.
- Explore and Research: Once you have gained a deeper understanding of yourself, look around at various industries, job roles, and opportunities that align with yourself and your values. Use online resources and professional networks to learn more about the day-to-day responsibilities, necessary qualifications, and potential growth prospects in different fields of interest. You can even ask friends and family for additional support or connections. Exploring different fields can help uncover hidden career possibilities and broaden your perspectives.
- Set Goals and Prioritize: As you dive deeper, it is essential not to bite off more than you can chew. Set clear and achievable long and short-term goals that align with your passions and aspirations. Break them down into actionable steps and prioritize them based on their importance and feasibility. Establishing a roadmap will provide you with clarity and motivation throughout your career journey. If this step proves challenging, come and book an initial consultation with me! You certainly don’t have to do this alone.
- Gain Practical Experience: I know, I know. It can be challenging to hear that you need experience to get experience. But this doesn’t mean you have to continuously go through the hiring process. You can get creative! Think of it this way, you can consider internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering opportunities related to your areas of interest. You can even ask to shadow someone in their field to get a better sense of what a day-in-the-life would look like. Practical experience not only enhances your knowledge but also helps you gauge your compatibility with a particular career before committing.
- Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Career paths are rarely linear, and it is essential to embrace a growth mindset and continuously adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Invest in lifelong learning by attending workshops, training programs, or pursuing further education. Stay aware of industry trends and advancements to remain relevant and to open doors to exciting career prospects.
Cultivating a healthy relationship with our career is a transformative journey that requires self-reflection, research, goal-setting, practical experience, and adaptability. Remember, finding our ideal career path may take time and exploration, and it’s okay if you don’t feel called to design a “career-path” for yourself.
By cultivating a healthy relationship with our job or career goals, we can embark on a path to find work that aligns with our passions, strengths, and values. Embrace the process, remain patient (remember, it is a process!), and never settle for less than what brings out the best in you.
As always, if you feel you need additional support in figuring out your career goals, or in establishing a more supportive relationship with your job, come find me for an initial consultation! I am always here for you.
