Conscious Career Planning: Thrive, Don't Just Survive!
Lately I have been thinking a lot about careers.
Why we choose them?
Why we leave them?
Why some people decide to career transition out of what appears to be a perfectly good role?
The answers to these questions probably deserve deeper investigation than we have time for here.
However, I think it is safe to say many of us merely ‘exist’ in our careers, settling for second best or adhering to societal expectations.
But what if we took charge instead?
This is where conscious career planning comes into play.
But what is conscious career planning? ??
In my opinion CONSCIOUS CAREER PLANNING is where you plan to thrive in your career and not just exist or survive.
So, it is about having a plan and sticking to it.
As an expert communication and career coach, I wanted to share five actionable steps for conscious career planning:
1. BE INTENTIONAL: Imagine your future self. Where do you want to be in 1, 3, 5, or 10 years?
Put pen to paper and delve into the details:
What: Define your aspirations.
Why: Understand your motivations deeply; this resilience will sustain you during challenges.
How: Strategize actionable steps.
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Gap Analysis: Identify areas for growth.
Financial Goals: Set clear intentions.
2. ALIGN WITH YOUR VALUES: This is about having clarity and being authentic. For example, if you’re a tech enthusiast with a passion for connecting with people, consider venturing into the people-centric realms of technology. Some people call this "owning your awesome"—a game-changer that sets you apart.
3. DISTINGUISH NEEDS FROM WANTS: Yes, financial stability matters, but can you also work on that exciting project to broaden your experience? Maybe it's not always an either-or situation. If you are a little flexible you can have your cake and eat it too!
4. PURSUE JOY: Stagnation is the enemy of growth. If your current role feels lackluster, seize the opportunity to reinvent your professional journey.
Combine your passions and skills—it’s possible to get paid for things you like and are naturally good at. Discover your IKIGAI.
5. TAKE THE INITIATIVE: Don't wait for opportunities, create them! Establish your digital presence, network strategically, and seek out collaborations. Be the architect of your career narrative. Nurture your network so you're considered for those unadvertised senior roles.
I have talked a lot in the past about a proactive v reactive career search. The reality is many mid-level and senior roles are not advertised and will be secured by referral and networking.
So, in summary, I hope with these actionable 5 steps I have inspired you a little not to just make do, doing something because you have to, because it’s expected or you’re settling for something second best because you feel stuck.
There is another way!
CONSCIOUS CAREER PLANNING may just be the first step to that dream job and life you deserve!
Until next week!
Wayne
P.S. If you would like to know more about my one-on-one coaching programs to improve your Business English communication, career search and interview skills please book a free 30-minute consultation here ??