4 Steps to greater Work-Life "Alignment"

While the percentage of people changing careers may have increased in the last several years, this is not a new idea. Most of us make several career shifts during our lifetime. The statistics show people change careers 3-5 times and change jobs 2-10 times in our lifetime. Choosing a path of study, starting work, changing jobs, and considering how to spend retirement are among the many career decisions we make. Successful career choices effectively take into account who you are as a person, the specific circumstances in which you find yourself and to find the best fit that works specifically for your circumstances. What was satisfying and enjoyable at one time in your life, may not necessarily be what you need today as you evolve. The pandemic has certainly enlightened people to re-prioritize on what is most important to them personally and with respect to their career.

"The pandemic has certainly enlightened people to re-prioritize what is most important to them personally and with respect to their career."

On a daily basis, I help people better understand themselves and use this understanding to make 'work-life alignment' decisions. When it comes to changing careers or finding a better company or job fit, self-awareness, knowing the opportunities, setting goals, making the right decisions and having an action plan to follow are keys. If you can break the career decision making process down into manageable steps, identifying desirable career options is much less intimidating, daunting and overwhelming.

Step 1 – Know Thyself

Do you know your strengths? Areas of opportunity? Can you describe what type of person you are? Can you list who you are, what you like to do, and what you want to get from your work? Most of us think we can, but when they try it is tough for them to articulate. I utilize a number of tools, assessments, use coaching and counselling methods to help you get back to yourself again, to reprioritize yourself and achieve greater success and focus

Step 2 – Know what is out there

Investigate occupations with the knowledge of yourself gathered in Step 1. Based on the skills, interests, values and needs you have identified, what career options appear to be the most suitable? When you are able to identify the kind of tasks and activities you would like to do, have the aptitude for, and fits your life, it is easier to determine whether a career will the best fit.

Step 3 – Set Goals and Make Decisions

Now that you know more about yourself and have identified some possible career options, you are ready to make some decisions. Gather the facts for each career option and weigh how well each career will satisfy your needs and wants. This is also when you need to consider the job market as you choose a path to follow.

Step 4 – Implement Your Decision

Once you have narrowed your career choice, you need to act on it. You might need to acquire new skills and get further training and education. If you already have the required skills you may begin preparing for the job search, and networking job leads. When implementing your decision you may encounter a number of barriers that get in your way. One of those barriers can be yourself - feeling overwhelmed, fear of failure/success, perfectionism, etc. or from your environment - family pressure, economy, labour market, location etc.

A lot of people are asking themselves what they want to get out of work, and whether a career, job or company change would lead to increased satisfaction and fulfillment which can be stressful and challenging on your own. It's important to recognize you are not alone – millions of people are also asking the same questions. Get unstuck, gain clarity, confidence and change to achieve the results you want with step by step support.?Feel empowered and get aligned with who you really are to tap into your true, natural potential.?

"It's important to recognize you are not alone – millions of people are also asking the same questions."

If you know you need support, reach out to setup a no-obligation, complimentary clarity call. All career and leadership coaching is conducted remotely. Serving clients all across Canada from the comfort of your own home.

Jacquie

www.5pointperspectives.com

[email protected]

705-716-1478

Jacquie Ottema's purpose in life is to help her client's find their ideal career fit with meaning and fulfillment - to transform and thrive at work for more happy workdays. She partners with her clients to inspire self-awareness, discover their unique purpose, and empower them to make informed and confident decisions using the most comprehensive tools and support with her exclusive 90 Day Fast Track Program, 5 Point Perspectives Plan, 5 Point PAVIS Approach and Power Coaching Sessions. Offered remotely in a customized, convenient and confidential way all across Canada.

Sail through your career and lead in a way you love!