Freedom to Forge Your Career Path

On July 4th, I always reflect on the true meanings of freedom and independence. Living in a world of unwritten rules, where many of us fall into a pattern of complacency, how often do you pause to ponder on what personal freedom and independence looks like????

How often do you pause to ponder on what personal freedom and independence looks like????

In an era of rapid change and evolving work landscapes, people are looking for change that results in perceived freedom. According to a 2024 Gallup survey , 51% of American workers reported actively looking for a new job or watching for new job opportunities. From the freedom to work from a location of preference to the freedom to work in careers that align with purpose, people are seeking changes that result in professional freedom.?

Having worked across government, nonprofit, and private sectors, I've experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with career transitions. My journey led me to become an executive and career coach in 2018, allowing me to guide hundreds of individuals across various sectors in reimagining their career paths. That journey includes entrepreneurship - the ultimate professional freedom. Through X Is Possible programs , I've had the privilege of helping women, civil servants, and nonprofit leaders redefine success on their own terms.?

I noted in an interview for the Harvard Business Review published in February 2024, in today's dynamic work environment, the challenge for individuals is to determine how we navigate and leverage change for our personal and professional growth. We must challenge ourselves to commit to self-reflection, continuous learning, seeking guidance, and taking purposeful action.?

Self-Reflection

The first step in forging your own path is to align your career choices with your purpose. This alignment is crucial for long-term satisfaction and success. It begins with self-reflection, taking time to understand your values, passions, and strengths.?

Ask yourself:?

• What activities energize you??
• What causes do you care about deeply??
• What does career success look like for you??
• What are your life priorities, and where does career fit??

Self-Awareness

I come across professionals every day who limit themselves by letting others define the value of their experience. If you are considering a career change, it is important to recognize that skills acquired in one field can often be applied in another. These “transferable skills” broaden individual potential career options, and is something you have the power to define and communicate for yourself!?

We also need to be aware of our gaps. For individuals seeking change, identify gaps between where you are and where you want to be, to determine what skills or experiences you need to acquire to reach your goals.?

You are not limited to traditional career trajectories, and you can consider unconventional paths that might better align with your passions.?

Continuous Learning and Guidance

Throughout this process of reflection and visioning, embrace lifelong learning to stay adaptable and open to new opportunities that align with your evolving interests.?

Navigating career decisions can be challenging, which is why seeking guidance from coaches or mentors can be invaluable. As someone who has been an executive and career coach since 2018, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of coaching in accelerating decision-making and career growth. Coaches and mentors provide objective feedback, offering an external perspective on your skills, blind spots, and potential. They challenge your assumptions, pushing you to question your limiting beliefs and expand your vision of what's possible. Mentors, especially those in your desired field, can offer industry insights and valuable connections. Regular check-ins with a coach or mentor can keep you on track with your career goals.?

Take Action

While reflection and guidance are crucial, they must be coupled with action. Developing and executing a career development plan is the bridge between aspiration and achievement. An effective plan starts with setting clear, measurable goals, defining what success looks like for you in the short-term and long-term.?

Your career development plan is a living document and can evolve as you grow and as circumstances change.

Entrepreneurship - A Career Pathway

Entrepreneurship offers a unique avenue for individuals to align their work with their passions and take control of their professional destiny. Entrepreneurship represents the ultimate freedom in forging your own path. It allows you to create a career that perfectly aligns with your passions and values. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities.

For those considering entrepreneurship, consider testing your business idea while maintaining the security of your current job. Develop your business acumen by taking courses or seeking mentorship in areas like finance, marketing, and operations. Build a support network by connecting with other entrepreneurs for advice and moral support. Be prepared for ups and downs, as entrepreneurship often involves financial uncertainty and long hours, especially in the beginning. Stay adaptable and be ready to pivot your business model as you learn more about your market and customers.

As we celebrate our independence, this is a time to embrace the freedom we have in shaping our careers. By aligning our choices with our passions, seeking guidance, and taking deliberate action, we can forge paths that are not only professionally rewarding but personally fulfilling. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your progress, and stay open to the possibilities that lie ahead.

On this Independence Day - and every day - remember that whether you're considering a career change, seeking more fulfillment in your current role, or contemplating entrepreneurship, YOU have the power to shape your professional journey.?

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Erica M. Roberts is the CEO of X Is Possible, LLC. X Is Possible, LLC offers expert organizational & employee development consultancy as well individual coaching and professional development solutions.